best country to visit for a month

Where to go in 2024: when to visit our Best in Travel winners

Oct 25, 2023 • 19 min read

Head to Croatia in June when the weather is bliss - before the bulk of the summer crowds arrive © Matthew Baker:Getty Images

If you’re anything like us, you’re looking to cram as much adventure as possible into 2024.

And if you are looking to be inspired, we’ve just released Best in Travel 2024 – a roundup of the best places to unwind, connect, eat, learn and journey around the world next year. With 30 different destinations and experiences among our picks, there’s plenty to pack in.

So if you want to start planning a year’s worth of epic trips, read on to find out the best time to visit these incredible places in the coming year.

Where to travel in January

Nairobi, kenya .

While there really isn’t a bad time to be in Nairobi , the height of the summer season is always a good bet. January sees an average of four days of rain and temperatures of 23°C/73°F. Expect perfect conditions for a safari experience in Nairobi National Park , just on the outskirts of the city. It might be the only place in the world where you can see black rhinos, lions, hyenas, gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes and buffalo against a backdrop of skyscrapers. 

Southern Thailand

Many have described Southern Thailand as Thailand before the backpackers arrived. In January, the busiest month for tourism in Thailand, you can lie on a deserted beach near Ao Khanom, waiting to catch a glimpse of the elusive and beautiful pink dolphins. It’s good to know when not to go, too: keep in mind monsoon season arrives from July to October. And in 2024, Ramadan falls across March and April, with Eid-ul-adha in the middle of June. 

The dry, cooler winter, from October to April, is the ideal time to visit India , with February being the sweet spot. Plan at least one long-distance rail journey as part of your trip – there’s no experience quite like waking up on an Indian sleeper train barrelling across the plains.

It’s always best to avoid the rain-drenched monsoon season from May to September, unless you’re heading to arid Ladakh , in the far north. 

Benin is solidifying its status as a premier West African destination for art and culture. As part of efforts to repatriate historical artifacts, Benin is establishing the Museum of the Epic of the Amazons and Kings of Dahomey , set to open in late 2024 with priceless pieces restituted from France. So why are we not encouraging you to visit in December? Well, you should – but January 10 sees Benin’s famed voodoo festival take place in Ouidah and Porto Novo. It’s an enriching cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Find out more of the best places to go in January . 

Where to travel in February

There’s hardly a wrong time to visit the Caribbean – yet February sees a high influx of visitors hoping to escape cold-weather countries. St Lucia ’s independence from British rule in 1979 is celebrated on February 22, and marked by parades and celebratory events island-wide. Come prepared to party.

Hokkaido, Japan

February is when the temperatures are at their coldest in this premier Japanese hub for skiing and snowboarding, and the season even offers an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to try ice fishing on the top of a frozen lake. ​​ Sapporo Snow Festival – Hokkaidō ’s most famous festival, featuring snow and ice sculptures and giant slides – is held in February, bringing a huge number of well-wrapped-up visitors. 

A Mexico visit in January or February means dry and relatively cooler days, providing some relief in humid coastal destinations. It’s also whale-watching season along the Pacific Coast . In Mazatlán , February is carnival time: the 2024 festival is the 126th edition.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Deceptively vast and blessed with a ridiculous amount of stunning coastline – 540km (335 miles) to be exact – this is where you may find you’ve scored an entire beach to yourself. Kangaroo Island invites guests to indulge in its unique local produce, encounter adorable Australian wildlife and discover some of the country’s best beaches. And the island is a total show-off during the Aussie summer months of January and February.  

Find out more of the best places to go in February .

Where to travel in March

For those seeking a trekking experience away from snowy summits, the Anti Atlas Mountains in Morocco are perfect in March, when you can embrace tranquil hikes and the season of wildflowers and blooming trees. Don’t miss the annual almond blossom festival in Tafraoute , held in February or March to coincide with the vibrant flowering and harvest of almond trees.

Uzbekistan 

March welcomes the start of spring in Uzbekistan , as blossoming apricots grace the landscape. As the month unfolds, expect warm and moderately dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 30°C (86°F). Seize the opportunity to explore the storied cities of Samarkand , Bukhara and Khiva ; immerse yourself in mountainous retreats; or embark on an artistic and cultural journey in the capital city of Tashkent .

Normandy, France

If visitors to France fancy something other than the Olympics , the region of Normandy is hosting the Normandy Impressionist Festival from March to September next year to celebrate 150 years of Impressionism. The event will bring visitors into the heart of a 19th-century movement that turned art on its head with its radical, soulful focus on outdoor scenes and the effects of light. The program includes open-air theater performances and dance cafes, art exhibitions and workshops, plus forest walks, stargazing, sound- and-light shows and romantic picnics straight out of a Renoir.

Though Spain might be one of the most popular countries for visitors, the sun-washed destination is leading the green-travel way with its plans for a more sustainable, circular tourism model. The Mediterranean city of Valencia is a European Green Capital for 2024, and March is the perfect time to visit and explore Jardines del Turia , a 9km (5.5-mile)long riverbed that’s been transformed into a road-free park.

Since winters along the Mediterranean coast can be cold and wet, and desert nights icy, March is an ideal month to visit Algeria . To see the Algerian Sahara ’s most beautiful sand dunes, head to the blood-red oasis city of Timimoun and its nearby Grand Erg Occidental, a dune sea twice the size of Belgium . It is also best to avoid summer, when temperatures in the Sahara can get into the 50°C (122°F) range. In spring and autumn, the weather is ideal for touring, and hotel rates are lower than the summer peak. 

Find more of the best places to go in March .

Where to travel in April

Danube limes, bulgaria.

The string of settlements on the ancient limits of the Roman Empire known as the Danube Limes has been nominated for inclusion on the Unesco World Heritage list in 2024, so expect visitor numbers to increase. Go in April before the summer heat hits, and explore part of the 460-mile Dunav Ultra cycling path , which follows the Danube through Bulgaria all the way to the Black Sea. 

Paris, France 

Who doesn’t love Paris in the springtime? And 2024 will certainly be the eternal city’s year, with the Olympics happening in the summer. Even if you didn’t score tickets, visit in April to cheer on the runners in the Paris marathon , Europe ’s biggest and considered by many the world’s best. The route takes in most of the world-famous Paris landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe , the Bastille , Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower .

From beachcombing to village-hopping, volcano-climbing and indulging in fresh, lip-tingling ceviche, Nicaragua ’s pleasures are plentiful. And in 2024, the country will offer visitors something even more special: it’s a prime viewing destination for the total eclipse on April 8 . Observe it from atop a volcano for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Wales ’ southwest is far less crowded with tourists than the north – and has an air of the untouched and untamed. The best period to visit starts in April, when rainfall is low and temperatures milder. A hike along the Wales Coast Path is the best way to explore this protected shore.

This small Pacific nation offers uninhabited tropical beaches where you can live out your scuba-diving dreams. Visiting in April guarantees warm and sunny weather for diving, snorkelling and swimming – although it is possible to go to Palau throughout the year, as the country does not experience typhoons.

Ikaria, Greece

The Greek island of Ikaria seduces with aquamarine waters and wild terrain, plus an independent spirit. As spring unfolds, Ikaria comes alive with delightful weather and vibrant natural landscapes, creating the perfect setting for island tours and outdoor activities. Embark on sailing adventures, explore the waters through kayaking or pedal along scenic cycling routes. Ikaria is also a popular spot for stargazing. 

Find more of the best places to go in April .

Where to travel in May 

Mostar, bosnia .

Swap the Bosnian city of Mostar ’s stifling summer heat for a balmy cultural getaway in spring. Visit the colorful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for its panoramic views of the city. Wander along cobblestone alleys (relatively crowd-free at this time of year) to find bazaars selling everything from ceramics to textiles and traditional art. Then head down to the River Neretva, where you can witness locals test gravity’s limits by diving from the Stari Most bridge . Maybe you’ll join in? If not, you can enjoy front-row seats at a riverbank cafe, Turkish coffee in hand.

Europe’s night trains

From spring 2024, European Sleeper will expand its services to offer travelers even more overnight rail options . The expansion connects Berlin to more Dutch and Belgian cities, and will simplify travel from London to Paris or Prague. Book a journey in early May before the summertime crowds arrive, and you can enjoy scenic train rides through lush green valleys, cherry-blossom-lined landscapes and snow-capped mountains.

The Western Balkans

Launching in 2024, the Trans Dinarica cycling route covers 3364km (2090 miles) through the Western Balkans , weaving through alpine lakes, national parks, Unesco sites and villages in the Dinaric Alps and nearby regions. The route is divided into 50km (31-mile) sections, with dining and accommodation options at the end of each one. Late May to early June is an ideal time to go: the snow has melted, spring flowers are in bloom and temperatures aren’t so punishing.

Find out more of the best places to go in May .

Where to travel in June

It’s almost impossible to move through the narrow streets of Croatia ’s historic cities and old towns at the height of summer without jostling elbows with fellow tourists. Go in early June instead, when you’re almost guaranteed sun-kissed weather and you’ve a better chance of snagging a spot at a popular attraction or restaurant without agonizing queues. Now that Croatia is officially in the eurozone , you can easily enter from most other EU countries without changing currency.

Basque Country, Spain

For much of the year, Spain’s Basque Country is under a constant drizzle – but by June the sun is out, and so are the locals. Outdoor terraces, bars and beaches come alive as people gather to linger over seafood and pinxtos. Try San Sebastián for its culinary scene and crescent-shaped cove; Bilbao for bar-hopping and museums; or try any of its scenic hiking trails. We love the Wine and Fish trail that traverses through the region's vineyards and coastal towns.

Jakarta, Indonesia 

Jakarta offers a dizzying mix of attractions, from exceptional cuisine and coffee to a rich history, a vibrant art scene, fantastic shopping and lively nightlife. While the weather is hot and humid most of the year, June offers a pleasant break with the onset of the dry season. Due to Jakarta’s unsustainable future, Indonesia plans to move the capital to Nusantara –  so visit soon, before it transforms forever.

The Portuguese Way, Camino de Santiago

The Portuguese Way  – also known as Caminho Portugues de Santiago – unfolds with ancient villages, locally owned albergues (hostels) and scenic paths through Portugal and Spain. June is an excellent time to take on the pilgrimage route, thanks to generally bright and pleasant weather, moderate crowds and lush, green fields.

Find out more of the best places to go in June .

Where to travel in July

The midwest, usa.

With revitalized warehouses turned into art spaces, eco-design hotels and world-class museums, the USA ’s Midwest offers a multitude of reasons to visit. Moreover in 2024, Ann Arbor, Michigan – a haven for foodies – celebrates its 200th birthday with year-round festivities, while Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio celebrates its 50th anniversary. Visit in July to see Midwest energy in full force before August’s heat sets in.

Donegal, Ireland

Beautiful, wild and windswept Donegal boasts the longest coastline in Ireland and over 100 beaches – so even though summer attracts large crowds, finding a spot of solitude should be no problem. While you can never depend on the weather in Ireland, you’ll generally have a better chance of clear skies in July, making it an ideal time to hike Europe’s largest sea cliffs at Slieve Liag , or any of the Wild Atlantic Way ’s coastal paths. Earagail Arts Festival takes place in July, offering the chance to connect with the Irish language and local traditions.

Montana, USA

With its vast wilderness and jaw-dropping “big sky” landscapes, Montana truly embodies the spirit of the American West . While there’s no bad time to visit, July stands out for outdoor activities like hiking, white-water rafting, cycling and wildflower spotting. With the snow melted, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks are more accessible (though tour buses are back on the road). Festival season is in full swing, too, with the Under the Big Sky Festival in Whitefish, Evel Knievel Days in Butte and the Flathead Cherry Festival in Polson all taking place in July.

Saalfelden Leogang, Austria

In 2024, Saalfelden Leogang , an Austrian mountain resort, is embracing a sustainable future with a new solar-powered chairlift and an array of guided outdoor activities. Visit in winter for skiing or snowboarding – or in summer, when you can hike, bike and swim in the lake at this family-friendly mountain playground.

​​Mongolia beckons to those yearning for vast expanses, thrilling adventures and captivating cultural encounters. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and rich heritage, this extraordinary destination holds a multitude of treasures waiting to be discovered . Mongolia is best visited in the summer, when the steppes turn electric green and you can explore the countryside. July is the main time to catch Naadam events (with such traditional games as horse racing, wrestling and archery) happening in small towns across the country. 

Find out more of the best places to go in July .

Where to travel in August

In 2024, Greenland will get two new airports, in Nuuk and Ilulissat, allowing for direct flight connections between this icy land and North America. Once there, you can enjoy unique local experiences. For dog-sledding and the northern lights, spring is the ideal time to visit – and coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Arctic Sounds music festival next April. If you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, wildlife-spotting and endless hours of sun, though, you can’t go wrong in August.

August is an excellent time to embrace Poland ’s natural beauty. You can hike in the Carpathian Mountains , kayak in the Great Marsuain Lakes and bike in Białowieża National Park . In fact, Poland boasts 23 national parks, which means you’ll never run out of outdoor activities. If you prefer something more relaxing, Poland’s coastline offers affordable, uncrowded white-sand beaches, best enjoyed in late summer.

With drier weather and more sunshine, August is a great time to explore Ecuador ’s 10 national parks and eco-friendly cloud lodges – and Día de Independencia (August 8) and the procession of La Virgen del Cisne (August 15) are big events on the cultural calendar. If you’re not pushed for time, a brand new digital-nomad visa means tourists can enjoy extended stays in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. 

Far North, Scotland

Next year, Scotland ’s Far North is vying for Unesco World Heritage recognition thanks to its rich biodiversity and critical role in carbon sequestration. The wild and boggy terrain is home to mist-shrouded mountains, rivers, a diverse wildlife population and restaurants that emphasize local, foraged ingredients. A late-August visit ensures comfortable temperatures for exploring the great outdoors – without the nuisance of midges.

The Baltic Trails 

Crisscrossing Estonia , Latvia and Lithuania , the newly established Baltic Trails are best tackled in summer, when guesthouses are operating and the sun shines until 10pm. Trekkers can take to two trails: the Baltic Coastal Hiking Route, which runs along the Baltic Sea; and the Forest Trail, which takes you through forest hinterland and national parks, including Latvia’s Gauja River Valley.

Find out more of the best places to go in August

Where to travel in September

Kansas city, usa .

Kansas City , in the heart of the American Midwest, is increasingly traveler-friendly thanks to revitalized urban spaces, a brand-new, state-of-the-art airport terminal and expanded (free!) streetcar service. In 2024, the city is set to unveil its first National Women’s Soccer League stadium – a prelude to hosting World Cup games in 2026. For the ultimate KC sports experience, visit in September, when the NFL season kicks off and you can experience the roar of a Chiefs home game.

Tuscany, Italy

Few destinations epitomize the art of savoring life’s unhurried moments quite like this idyllic region. Whether you’re wandering along pristine hiking trails or reacquainting your palate with the rustic charm of cucina contadina (farmhouse cooking), any experience in Tuscany is an exquisite fusion with the land itself. Come September, as the sun’s gentle warmth lingers, you’ll find the bliss of fewer tourists and countryside paths awash with wild blooms.

İzmir, Turkey

İzmir is a city that prides itself on good living – which isn’t hard thanks to its seaside location, fresh Aegean cuisine, and a blend of rediscovered heritage and revitalized contemporary culture that draws visitors from teeming Istanbul . With its mild winters and refreshing breezes caressing the city from the bay, İzmir’s allure as a year-round destination is undeniable. Yet September, as the summer heat mellows, might be the ideal time to explore this city.

South Africa

South Africa is an ode to natural grandeur: penguins inhabit the coastline, lions and black rhinos prowl the bush, and the fynbos shrub breathes life into the hills of the Western Cape . The southern-hemisphere-spring months of September and October bring the best chances of dolphin and whale encounters, including at whale-watching centers such as Hermanus . Do your research and book responsible experiences, taking care to avoid places where wild animals are held captive or made to alter their natural behavior.

Find out more of the best places to go in September

Where to travel in October

In October in Pakistan , the monsoon season has ended, vibrant autumn hues take over the Hunza Valley, and guided outdoor tours through the country’s alpine valleys and snow-capped Himalayan passes beckon. Don’t miss a journey along the dramatic Karakoram Highway to immerse yourself in the country’s most epic mountain scenery. 

Montréal, Canada

While summer is the best time for outdoor festivals, fall in Montréal offers cheaper prices, beautiful autumn leaves and just-right temperatures. Don’t miss the Parc du Mont-Royal , where wooded trails and the Belvédère Kondiaronk provide views of the mountain’s changing hues against the backdrop of downtown. Another must-visit is Gardens of Light , a colorful event that transforms the Chinese, Japanese and First Nations gardens of the Jardin Botanique into works of art through the end of October.

The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors in 2024, offering a tantalizing immersion in Egypt ’s ancient treasures. What’s more, budget travelers will have more options, with the potential launch of low-cost flights from Ryanair and Air Sphinx. Unsure when to visit? October is usually a great time , as crowds thin out, temperatures remain balmy and the light provides excellent photography opportunities.

New trails, ever-growing parklands and a truly ambitious rewilding project make Patagonia both fiercer and more approachable than ever before. Need another reason to visit in 2024? An annular solar eclipse will black out the skies over both Argentina ’s and Chile’s Patagonia National Parks on October 2, creating even more buzz in one of the planet’s wildest corners.

Find out more of the best places to go in October

Where to travel in November

Travelers will love Chile in November. After the hush of winter months, Patagonia awakens to the vibrant hues of spring, while the northern regions gradually shed their chill, offering a respite from the dampness of previous seasons. This also marks the ideal time to explore the picturesque coastal towns and desert landscapes of the north, a month before the busy tourist season swings into action. 

Swahili Coast, Tanzania

Tanzania ’s Swahili Coast boasts a timeless allure, beckoning travelers year-round. November offers terrific wildlife watching. Savor the coastal wonders in their full glory with whale sharks swimming on Mafia Island or float along the wide Rufiji River on a boat safari, passing hippos submerged in the shallows, crocodiles sunning themselves on rocks and kingfishers taking it all in from the riverbanks.

Southern Lakes and Central Otago, New Zealand

November can be a great time to visit, especially if you love mountain biking (Kiwis have gone bike-mad) amid still cooler weather. New Zealand ’s Great Walks hiking season also kicks off in late October and runs through until April. Spring festivals include Crayfest Kaikōura , pairing everyone’s favorite crustacean (crayfish) with local wine and craft beer. It’s also a good time to incorporate some whale watching at Kaikoura . 

Find out more of the best places to go in November

Where to travel in December

Philadelphia, usa .

Looking for an art and culture city break? Head straight to Philadelphia . In 2024, the Franklin Institute celebrates its 200th anniversary with revamped exhibitions and interactive displays. A new world-class art museum, Calder Gardens , dedicated to the work of world-famous sculptor (and Philly native) Alexander Calder, will open near the Rodin Museum and Barnes Foundation before the end of the year. While it’s cold in December, there are plenty of festive activities, including a public ice-rink near towering City Hall .

Manaus, Brazil 

Manaus , gateway to the Amazon , is best explored in the dry season, which generally runs until the end of December. Look for sustainable tourism and Indigenous-led initiatives like Biatüwi ’s all-Indigenous menu, which showcases ingredients from the Amazon Basin. Or go wildlife exploring in Rio Urubu, located just two hours from the city center.

Prague, Czechia

Yes, December can be bitingly cold in Prague – but that doesn’t mean it’s not a magical time of year, and the perfect month to find a traditional cozy pub to warm up and sink a tall Czech beer. Hearty Czech cuisine warms you up, and the cobblestone streets are illuminated with twinkling lights. Don’t miss the Christmas markets: the biggest is in the Old Town Square and runs until the end of the month – with mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, seasonal gifts and musical performers.

Find out more of the best places to go in December

This article was first published Nov 19, 2019 and updated Oct 25, 2023.

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The Best Travel Destinations for Every Month

Amanda Norcross

Amanda Norcross has served as an editorial and on-air travel expert for nearly a decade. Her expertise has been featured in numerous media outlets including Bloomberg, NBC News, PEOPLE , Skift and The New York Times . Follow her on Twitter , Instagram , and TripAdvisor for travel inspiration and advice.

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“When is the best time to go?” It’s usually the first question—and probably the most important question—we ask when planning a trip to a place we’ve been dreaming about. We want to know what the weather will be like, the cost of transportation and accommodations during our anticipated travel dates, which local events will take place, and more. Let this guide be an easy answer to all of those questions and a piece of vacation inspiration, too. Read on to discover the best places to travel by month.

Where to Go in January: Thailand

January is high season in Thailand—and with good reason. The weather is warm and consistently sunny in all regions of the country. In January, Chiang Mai hosts the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, a three-day celebration of colorful parasols (with fantastic photo ops galore). You might also consider going south to Ko Lipe, a small island with beaches and picturesque bungalows.

Additional Suggestions: Costa Rica, for green foliage and clear skies; Oman, for temperate weather and the Muscat Festival, a month-long celebration of culture and history that starts in mid-January.

Check Prices for Akyra Manor Chiang Mai in Chiang Mai

Where to go in february: colombia.

As a tropical country, Colombia only has two seasons—dry and rainy—and February is part of the warm, sunny dry season in most of the country. Colombia’s average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with even cooler temperatures in high-altitude cities such as Medellin and Bogata. In February (sometimes early March) you can celebrate Carnaval de Barranquilla in Atlantico.

Additional Suggestions: Trinidad and Tobago, for Carnival celebrations; Belize, for balmy weather and little chance of rain.

Check Prices for Grand Hyatt Bogota in Bogota

Where to go in march: galapagos islands.

The Galapagos Islands beckon outdoor enthusiasts no matter the time of year, but the month of March offers a few special reasons to visit. During this time, visitors have the chance to see several species nesting, including sea turtles, iguanas (both marine and land), tortoises, and even penguins. Sure, the sun is intense, but nothing beats an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and prime underwater visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Additional Suggestions: New Zealand , for pleasant autumn weather; Washington, D.C. , for the National Cherry Blossom Festival (late March into April).

Check Prices for Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel in Puerto Ayora

Where to go in april: morocco.

Summers in Morocco can be unbearably hot, and winters quite cold. That’s why April is a prime time to plan a trip. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures coupled with magnificent scenery—particularly the fruit trees that blossom in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

Additional Suggestions: Spain, to avoid the summer heat and crowds; Paris, for the flowers at Luxembourg Gardens; Amsterdam, to see Keukenhof in full bloom.

Check Prices for Riad Melhoun & Spa in Marrakech

Where to go in may: peru.

Winter in Peru starts in May, but it’s likely not the kind of winter you’re used to. During this time the climate is dry, and temperatures—which can climb into the 80s—are especially enjoyable in the highlands. This is the best time to visit famed Machu Picchu , where you won’t find as many crowds.

Additional Suggestions: South Africa, for warm, dry weather and good game viewing; Western Australia, for whale shark season.

Check Prices for Retama Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes

Where to go in june: iceland.

Iceland is a no-brainer during the month of June (specifically late June) when travelers can take advantage of long days—commonly known as the midnight sun. Plan to be there on June 21, when the sun sets just after midnight and then rises again around 3:00 a.m. in Reykjavik. The highland roads in the mountains are also open during this time (they are closed over the colder months).

Additional Suggestions: Norway, for mild weather and long hours of sunlight; Malaysia, for prime snorkeling conditions; Hungary, for summer festivals galore.

Check Prices for Reykjavik Residence Hotel in Reykjavik

Where to go in july: french polynesia.

There are just two seasons in French Polynesia: winter and summer. The best time to visit is actually winter, which takes place between May and October. July, smack dab in the middle of the season, is an ideal time to visit, with low humidity and temperatures topping out in the 80s. Divers also enjoy excellent visibility. It’s expensive to visit in July (or any time, really), but many resorts— overwater bungalows included—offer package deals.

Additional Suggestions: Botswana, for dry weather and prime wildlife sightings; Barbados, for sugar cane harvest celebrations.

Check Prices for Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora in Bora Bora

Where to go in august: indonesia.

If you’re looking for perfect weather just about anywhere in Indonesia, consider a visit in August. Head to the coast of Bali for temperatures in the 70s, or climb up to the volcanoes (just wear a jacket—the highlands and mountains are chilly in August).

Additional Suggestions: Edinburgh, for summer festivals; Slovenia, for hiking in the Julian Alps and swimming in turquoise lakes.

Check Prices for Aksari Villa Seminyak in Seminyak

Where to go in september: alaska.

A bucket-list destination for many, Alaska sees the majority of its visitors—many of them families—in June, July, and August. Wait until school is back in session and plan a visit in September. The weather is pleasant, and the still-long days are perfect for exploring the fall foliage in Denali National Park, fishing for salmon, and even trying to spot the aurora borealis.

Additional Suggestions: Argentina, for hiking in the spring sunshine; Nova Scotia, for off-peak crowds and fresh lobster.

Check Prices for Aurora Denali Lodge in Healy

Where to go in october: italy.

Italy is mobbed with tourists throughout the year, but October is considered shoulder season, and a visit then means you’ll see slightly smaller crowds than you would in the busy summer months. You’ll also enjoy beautiful fall foliage in places like Tuscany, and cool weather on the beaches along the Amalfi Coast. Alba’s International White Truffle Fair starts in October—visit to sample the aromatic tuber and other delicacies, including wine.

Additional Suggestions: South Korea, for pleasant temperatures and colorful fall foliage; Greece, for moderate weather and smaller crowds.

Check Prices for Hotel Milu in Florence

Where to go in november: vietnam.

November is an ideal time to visit both the northern and southern parts of Vietnam. You’ll find history and culture in the north, and plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach in the south.

Additional Suggestions: Japan, for colorful fall foliage; Mexico, for Day of the Dead celebrations.

Check Prices for Christina's – Hotel & Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City

Where to go in december: germany.

Yes, it’s cliche, but you have to visit Germany in December at least once in your lifetime. There’s a reason so many countries mimic its famed Christmas markets ( weihnachtsmarkts ). The pop-up events feature beautiful light displays, music, handmade gifts, and mulled wine to sip as you shop. Most German cities offer markets, but the mother of them all is Nuremberg’s—one of the country’s oldest.

Additional Suggestions: Austria, for its own impressive holiday markets; the U.S. Virgin Islands, for prime weather and water sports; New York City , for holiday displays and ice skating at Rockefeller Center.

Check Prices for Hotel FIVE in Nuremberg

What to pack, older women’s spring outfit for travel, shop the look.

Slide Sandal

Infinity Bracelet

Top Handle Bag

Men’s springy/wintery outfit for a new location.

Oxford Shirt

Water Resistant Jacket

Sauvage by Christian Dior

More from smartertravel:.

• Europe in the Winter Off-Season: Where and Why You Should Go
• The Best Places to Travel This Year
• The Cheapest Places to Fly Right Now

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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A month-by-month travel guide to inspire your next trip

Recently updated on August 1st, 2023 at 03:45 pm

The world may be your oyster – but that can be a little overwhelming! If you’re wondering where are the best places to visit each month, we’ve got you covered. From different seasons to the best events and festivals, read our month-by-month travel guide to inspire your next trip. 

Best places to visit in January

Patagonia is one of the world’s top bucket list destinations and the summer season from December to February is the best time to go. You’ll get the warmest and driest weather, perfect for hiking those stunning trails.

RELATED CONTENT: 6 things you should tick off your bucket list when visiting Patagonia

South Africa

The summer season (December to February) is one of the best times to go to South Africa. You’ll get sunny warm days perfect for lounging at the beach or going wine tasting in the vineyards, or taking a cable car to Table Mountain in Cape Town.

RELATED CONTENT: 10 food experiences from around the world that should be on your 2022 bucket list

January is winter in Russia which sounds like a very cold adventure – but hear us out! You’ll actually get to extend your Christmas holiday by visiting Russia in January as the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on the 7th of January. The cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg look gorgeous covered in snow and twinkling lights and there’s plenty of festive activities.

RELATED CONTENT: Five Reasons You Should Visit Russia in Winter

Costa Rica has a range of different climates so it’s important to time your trip well. According to our month-by-month travel guide, January ticks all the right boxes. You’ll get warm weather, lots of sunshine, and plenty of chances to spot the famous wildlife.

GET INSPIRED BY: Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes

Best places to visit in February

The dry season is the perfect time to visit Thailand. You’ll get warm, dry days that are perfect for exploring those beautiful islands and beaches. Plus, you’ll miss the Christmas holiday crowds. In fact, any country in Southeast Asia like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore are great options for a sunny holiday in February. You’ll also get to experience the amazing festivities of Tet New Year in Vietnam and the Chinese New Year celebrations across the continent.

RELATED CONTENT: 8 travel trends that experts predict will actually happen in 2022

The nights can be chilly and the daytime temperatures are cooler, but it’s perfect weather for cruising the Nile and exploring the ancient ruins from Cairo to Luxor and beyond.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Egypt

Paris, France

February is a cold snowy month in Paris, but you’ll soon warm up with Valentine’s Day festivities! There’s a special atmosphere and lots of romantic events in Paris during Valentine’s Day… And what better way to celebrate than with a trip to the City of Love.

GET INSPIRED BY: Paris Explorer

Other big events in February

Our month-by-month travel guide has discovered so many incredible festivals and events in February across the world. There’s the iconic Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and the famous Carnival in Venice. You could also head to New Orleans for the legendary Mardis Gras in New Orleans.

RELATED CONTENT: 7 Colourful Festivals Around the World

Best places to visit in March

Scandinavia.

One of the top reasons to visit Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden and Denmark is to see the dancing Northern Lights. While the best period to witness this phenomenon is from early September to early April, we think March is a great month. You’ll get better weather than the freezing chill of the winter months, with lots of sunny days. In some areas, you can enjoy summer activities like hiking, and in others, you can still enjoy winter activities like skiing. Take your pick!

GET INSPIRED BY: Scandinavian Northern Lights

The weather is much milder in March, perfect for exploring the desert and archaeological treasures like Petra. You’ll also get to see colourful wildflowers blooming.

GET INSPIRED BY: Jordan Experience

Colombia is perfect in March with amazing weather for beach days and water sports. You’ll also skip the high season of December to February, so you’ll get cheaper rates and fewer crowds. Win-win!

Best places to visit in April

The netherlands.

If you want to see the beautiful tulips of the Netherlands, April is your best bet! While the famous Keukenhof Gardens open in March, the weather doesn’t warm up properly until April. You’ll also get to experience the Amsterdam Tulip Festival in April.

RELATED CONTENT: 11 of the best destinations to visit for Springtime in Europe 2021

New Zealand

April falls in autumn in New Zealand and it’s the best time to visit the wine-growing regions. You’ll see the trees and vineyards transform into a blaze of orange, red and gold. While the nights are chilly, the days are usually mild and sunny.

RELATED CONTENT: ​​ 11 sustainable destinations to visit in 2022

Japan’s cherry blossom season is one of the most popular bucket list trips in the world. The gorgeous cherry blossoms bloom from the end of March to the first half of April, but according to our month-by-month travel guide, this can change every year. So keep an eye on the forecasts! 

GET INSPIRED BY: Classic Japan

Spring arrives in Morocco in April meaning pleasant temperatures and blossoming almond and cherry trees. You can also visit the Sahara Desert in April with milder temperatures.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Morocco

April is the perfect time for a trip to the Caribbean, with countries like Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico offering up delightful sunny weather.

Best places to visit in May

May falls between the rainy season which ends in April and the busy season which starts in June… so it’s the perfect autumn month to explore Peru with milder weather and fewer crowds. 

RELATED CONTENT: The most amazing once-in-a-lifetime trips put on your bucket list

Our month-by-month travel guide picks May as the prime time to go hiking in the Himalayas of Nepal. While it’s one of the busiest months it’s for good reason as the weather and scenery are at their best.

GET INSPIRED BY: Nepal Adventure

Dreaming of seeing the mighty Victoria Falls that spread across Zimbabwe and Zambia? Visit in May when the Zambezi River is in flood and the Victoria Falls are at their strongest and most jaw-dropping. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Victoria Falls Experience

Spain and Portugal

May in Spain and Portugal is simply gorgeous. You’ll get long sunny days without the scorching summer heat. Plus, you’ll get more of the beaches to yourself without the summer crowds.

GET INSPIRED BY: Treasures of Spain and Portugal

If you don’t want the sweltering heat of summer or the freezing chill of winter, head to China in the spring month of May. You’ll get comfortable weather as you walk the Great Wall or explore Beijing.

RELATED CONTENT: 13 of the most remarkable experiences you can enjoy when you tour with Trafalgar

Best places to visit in June

The mediterranean.

June is a fabulous time to visit the Mediterranean. Head to any Mediterranean coastline in Greece, Italy, France, Croatia, Turkey, Spain, Albania, and Bosnia and you’ll be rewarded with warm waters, long sunny days, and fewer crowds than July and August.

GET INSPIRED BY: Greek Island Hopper

If you’ve always dreamed of witnessing the Great Migration from Tanzania to Kenya, this is the month to do it. The wildebeest begin their annual migration any time from late April to early June. It’s also a great time to head to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.

RELATED CONTENT: 16 Trafalgar trips you can take to experience the best of the world’s wildlife

The temperatures are warming up across North America in June and you’ll have the perfect weather for outdoor adventures and festivals in the cities. It’s also a great time to visit the iconic national parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone before the weather really heats up and the summer crowds arrive. You’ll also get to see newborn animals and breathtaking scenery and across the parks.

RELATED CONTENT: 16 stunning mountains and waterfalls you have to visit in the US

June in Iceland is all about the midnight sun. You’ll get to witness the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year when the sun barely sets at all. It’s a surreal experience and it’s also a great time for hiking and sightseeing. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Iceland Including the Blue Lagoon

Best places to visit in July

Our month-by-month travel guide picks Kenya’s Maasai Mara as the place to be in July since the Greatest Show on Earth – the Great Migration – happens during this month. Millions of wildebeests make the journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya around July and stay until October when they make the return journey. It’s also a great time to go on safari to spot animals in national parks across the country.

RELATED CONTENT: The dream bucket list destinations that are open to travellers for 2022 trips

The whole of Europe is at its peak in July from France to Spain, Germany to Switzerland, Croatia to Romania. Wherever you go, the weather will be warm and there will be lots of summer festivals and events. Just be warned that it’s also one of the busiest tourist months.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to go to escape the cold every month of the year

While most of Southeast Asia is in the middle of the monsoon season in July, Indonesia is enjoying its dry, sunny season. Take advantage of the blue skies and explore these beautiful islands!

Best places to visit in August

Hawaii has almost year-round warm weather but it’s at its best in the driest and hottest month of August. Perfect for snorkelling, swimming and hiking!

RELATED CONTENT: Thinking about a trip to Hawaii? These are the best times of the year to go

Visit Scotland in August and you’ll get to witness the iconic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in the same month! It’s also a great time to visit the Scottish Highlands with warmer, drier weather. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Scotland

August marks the dry season in Namibia when temperatures are warm and rainfall is low. It’s also the best time for wildlife viewing, but it is the start of peak season so plan ahead.

GET INSPIRED BY: Namibia Adventure

Best places to visit in September

Italy is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and while it can be visited all year round, our month-by-month travel guide picks September as one of the best months. You’ll avoid the huge summer crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather in the spring season.

GET INSPIRED BY: Italy Bellissmo

The Rocky Mountains in Canada are one of the most beautiful places on Earth and September is one of the best months to experience it. The weather will be just right – not too cold and not too hot. The stunning autumn leaves are starting to bloom at the end of the month. Plus, it’s the start of the shoulder season so prices are lower and there are fewer tourists.

RELATED CONTENT: ​​ 7 unforgettable experiences you can only have on a Trafalgar trip

This gorgeous little country sits on the edge of Europe – and it’s just perfect in September with spring blooms and milder weather. It’s the best month for hiking the beautiful mountain trails and you’ll also miss the busier summer season.

RELATED CONTENT: 9 trending destinations you should be earmarking for your 2022 travels

Best places to visit in October

New england, usa.

Dreaming of fall colours? You can’t go past the stunning autumn displays in New England. This northeastern region of the USA covers the states of Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine and Rhode Island. The leaf-peeping season arrives in early October and you’re sure to see some truly gorgeous fall scenery.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to travel in autumn to experience this most amazing season

October in Germany is all about the aptly named Oktoberfest. Millions of people attend the iconic beer festival in Munich every year. You can indulge in local beer and traditional Bavarian food, wear traditional outfits and listen to folk music. Head out of the cities and you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous autumn scenery and cool weather.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Germany and Austria

The world-famous Dia de Los Muertos festival is held on October 31st every year – and you can’t miss seeing the real deal in Mexico. Oaxaca in southern Mexico is a great place to see it as the temperatures are warm and they throw the most colourful and chaotic celebrations of all!

RELATED CONTENT: These are the 11 best European cities to celebrate Halloween in

If you’re looking for the best Halloween celebrations, you can’t go past the birthplace of Halloween – Ireland. The city of Derry is one of the best places to go for an unforgettable Halloween.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Ireland

Best places to visit in November

Argentina is just beautiful in November. Spring has well and truly sprung by the middle of the month, with lavender covering the parks and jacaranda trees blooming across Buenos Aires. The temperature is also nice and mild before the heat of summer arrives.

RELATED CONTENT: Why you should start planning your Christmas 2022 vacation now

While Turkey is famed as a summer beach destination, our month-by-month travel guide picks November as a great time to visit. You’ll still get mild autumn temperatures and lots of sun, but you’ll avoid both the summer and winter high seasons, meaning lower prices and fewer tourists.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Turkey

While India is a massive country with lots of different climates, November might just be the best month across the whole country. You’ll miss the rainy season plus you’ll avoid the heat and high season that starts in December. You might even get to witness Diwali (although the date changes every year). 

RELATED CONTENT: Why November is the perfect time of year to visit India

Best places to visit in December

There are few better places to spend the magical Christmas month than Europe. Head to the Alps across Switzerland and France for world-class skiing and winter wonderland magic. Or check out the magical Christmas markets from Germany to France to the UK.

GET INSPIRED BY: Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

December is the first month of summer in Australia so you can enjoy your holiday season in warm, sunny weather. Spend your Christmas at the beach and head to Sydney for New Year’s Eve to see the iconic fireworks display.

RELATED CONTENT: The 8 best destinations to travel to in Europe this December

With almost zero rain and warm temperatures averaging around 26°C, there are few better months to visit Dubai. You’ll experience an extravagant Christmas with glittering shopping malls, perfect beaches, and high-end restaurants. Plus you can see the record-breaking fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.

What is your favourite month to travel? Let us know in the comments below!

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Travelling Without a Passport

Where to Travel: A Guide for Every Month of the Year

With so many places on your bucket list, it can be tough to work out what to squeeze into your limited vacation days – and when. The world is a big place: while it might be peak season for where you live or “vacation season”, it will be the height of a monsoon or the dead of winter elsewhere around the world. So it’s important to know where are the best destinations for what time of year. Thus, we are proud to present to you, the best guide for where to travel every month of the year.

In January you should go to…

It may be peak season in this legendary Southeast Asian country, but it’s worth it for the great weather, at a lovely average of 27 degrees Celsius or 80 Fahrenheit. Besides, the mayhem of Christmas and New Years is over, so you’ll certainly be avoiding the worst. In January, Bangkok is pleasant, the islands on the Andaman Coast (Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta) are ideal and although Koh Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao are wetter, they tend to be intense short rain ralls, and then everyone’s back out on the beach for that liquid sunshine.

Travel to: Thailand

Talk about perfect weather. Costa Rica is generally a wet country, so timing your trip well is vital – so say hello to January in this stunning Central American country! What to expect: 30 to 35 celsius or mid 80s to low 90s, plenty of sunshine, an abundance of wildlife, tanning weather yet verdant foliage and blue skies to see those perfectly formed volcanoes at their best.

Travel to: Costa Rica

In February you should go to..

Whistler, Canada or Aspen, USA

If January’s the time to lift your spirits on a warm vacation, February is the time to embrace it to the extreme with a ski or snowboard adventure. Head to Whistler in Canada or Aspen in the US for great snow conditions and entertainment abound like mountainside cafes, spas, restaurants and nightlife (so even if you’re not one for the slopes, this is still a worthy getaway).

New Orleans, USA

We’ll take any excuse to make ourselves feel alive and happy in February (worst month there is for Northern Hemisphere-dwellers, anyone?) and there’s perhaps no city that does energy quite like New Orleans. The Mardi Gras takes place in February over the course of two weeks, and while it’s hectic, you’ll be seeing the city at its finest. As well as exploring the French Quarter, going on a cocktail tour and experiencing all the jazz you can shake a stick at, you’ll get the unique Mardis Gras shebang with showers of multi-coloured beads, vibrant carnival outfits and street parties.

Travel to: New Orleans from New York City

In March you should go to…

March and April have the lowest rainfall across all destinations within Vietnam and temperatures are moderate. The sticky humidity disappears in March and there’s lots of sunshine, making Vietnam ideal for lazing on the beach as well as trekking the northern mountains.

Travel to: Vietnam

Colombia’s peak season is December to February when prices soar, so March is a great time to visit for slightly cheaper rates but the same weather. There isn’t the copious rainfall of April-June and the temperature is warm and sunny. When there in March, you’ll happily be able to explore the towns and cities, the coffee district and while the days away on the Colombian beaches.

In April you should go to…

The end of March and the first half of April is when you’re most likely to see the famous and captivating cherry blossom season in Japan – first in Tokyo, then the rest of the country. As a friendly warning, you have to keep an eye out for the Sakura forecasts as they shift every year depending on how the weather has been, and they only last for about two weeks – so keep that credit card out, ready to purchase flights and a tour in order not to miss them!

Travel to: Japan

Spring happens relatively late in Morocco, in April and May, but it’s the best time to visit for the ease of travel throughout the country as summers are too hot and winter temperatures drop down significantly. April has a summer climate in the south, the mountains and the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Exploring the Atlas Mountains will reward you with the blossoming fruit trees.

In May you should go to…

Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal

All other cities should envy Lisbon in late spring/early summer: it’s by the sea, the days are long and sunny, it’s beginning to get warm and you can happily relax on the many rooftop bars without the crowds. As for the Algarve, you’ll have more of the beautiful coastline to yourself in May than in the summer.

See Also: Why You Need to Visit Portugal Right Now

The Peruvian winter starts in May, and while that might strike terror into the hearts of some of us, in Peru this is a good thing. Winter is the driest season and temperatures are enjoyable in the highlands, so it’s the best time to visit Machu Picchu. If you want to do the Inca Trail, get planning for May as soon as you can as there are limited permits (but you can do other treks to get to Machu Picchu without a permit, like the Quarry or Lares).

In June you should go to…

Before Italy gets trampled with peak summer travellers, do yourself a favour and tour this incredible country in June. As well as avoiding the crowds, the temperatures are lovely and the rural colours are richer after the spring. This is a great time to see the Amalfi Coast – it will be busy, but still manageable and truly beautiful.

See Also: Northern Italy Deserves Your Attention Now

The main reason you should visit Iceland in June is the summer solstice. On the longest day of the year, you’ll experience the sun barely setting before it rises again – it’s a unique, utterly surreal phenomenon. June also offers slightly warmer temperatures and great hiking as the landscape comes alive. It’s a great time to snorkel between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, however if you’re looking for the northern lights, it’s best to put off your trip until September and October.

Travel to: Iceland

In July you should go to…

Stockholm, Sweden

The Swedish do summer well. The weather is warm (seriously, don’t trust these stereotypes of constant cold), they spent their time outdoors riding bikes or going swimming in Stockholm’s city centre, jump in the surrounding lakes or kayak the archipelagos of Stockholm and Gothenburg.

July is the beginning of peak season (you want to definitely avoid November to April when there are tropical storms) when the weather is exactly how you’d want it for an island getaway: hot, dry and sunny. July in Fiji is when the water clarity is perfect for diving and snorkelling – there are over 1,000 species of fish, and you may even be in with a chance to swim with manta rays.

In August you should go to…

Temperatures at sea level are always between 21 and 33 degrees celsius, but the country is divided into wet and dry season, and we suggest August because, obviously, it’s the dry season. Going at this time of year will allow you optimum island-hopping – i.e. don’t stick only to Bali, at this time of year travel around to the Gili islands and Sumatra.

One of the biggest reasons people go to Kenya is for a safari (although there’s so much more to this amazing country) and for wildlife sightings, August is a solid choice. It’s the dry season and coincides with the wildebeest migration, which reaches the Masai Mara in July and stays until October when they move back to the Serengeti in Tanzania.

In September you should go to…

September is a great time to see the Rockies (Banff and Jasper National Parks), with fewer crowds, completely blue lakes, green foliage and no mosquitoes to ‘bug’ you. In the cities like Toronto, the humidity has gone and the fall colours come out – head to Algonquin at the end of the month for beautiful foliage.

See Also: 17 Reasons to Visit Canada in 2017

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza in September, you can finally get a spot on the beach, a table for lunch, it’s still hot and the closing parties at clubs happen which are the true highlights to the famous party season. If that’s not your style, then you still get the advantage of beautiful, private spots to yourself on the island. It also becomes a lot more affordable, and the rest of Spain is quieter too yet still warm, so you can even double up your Spanish trip with a visit to the mainland.

In October you should go to…

Like the spring months, a great time to visit China is September and October. Places which are usually incredibly hot and humid and a little too cool in spring, like Xinjiang, are perfect at this time of year. The same goes for a lot of the country, including the major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. It starts to get chillier in the evenings, so take extra layers, but October is a lovely time to explore multiple areas. Make sure to hike the Yellow Mountains!

New England, USA

Whether it’s Boston, Vermont or Maine, New England is a beautiful part of the US and the world, but never more so than in the fall. There’s a whole coined phrase for this fall extravaganza: leaf-peeping. Some of the best places to check out are the Green Mountains in Vermont, Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region in New Hampshire, the Acadia National Park Loop Road in Maine and Old King’s Highway in Massachusetts. Mid-late October is a great time to see the red, orange and yellow colours, and there are plenty of breweries and towns to visit in the area.

In November you should go to…

New Zealand

Some will say summer (December to February) is the best time to visit New Zealand. Others will say that fall (May) is the best. Well we’re bucking those trends and going with our gut: November for New Zealand. Why? On the South Island, you can get your adrenaline fill in the morning then sunbathe for the afternoon, while on the North Island, go for the hot springs and beaches. These are when the islands are at their most Middle Earth-esque.

The north of India offers clear, blue skies and it’s warm, dry and sunny. This is great for India when the heat can become really unbearable, so November (and December) is perfect. It’s also usually the month of Diwali (it changes each year), the Hindu festival of light, celebrating new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil. Some places to go to in India ideal for the month of November: Rajasthan, Coorg, Goa and Kerala.

Travel to: India

In December you should go to…

It might be hot and it might be busy, but New Year’s in Australia (particularly Sydney, but to be honest, why would you complain about anywhere else Down Under?) is like no other. You’re bound to be overwhelmed when those legendary fireworks you always see on the TV screen are actually in real life. Make the most of a December trip and go on a coastal road trip from Sydney to Cairns, stopping at Byron Bay and the Gold Coast in between.  

See Also: Introducing: the Ultimate Aussie Burger

Germany and Austria

The reason for the doubled-up suggestion for December is because of one thing: Christmas Markets. Germany and Austria have some of the best Christmas Markets in the world, all over each country, and involve huts dedicated to everything from decorations to delicious, warming food. For Germany, go to Cologne and Berlin. For Austria, Vienna comes out top, with Salzburg and Innsbruck also ideal to get you into the festive feeling.

See Also: The Best Danube Christmas Markets

Kirsten Powley

Kirsten is a travel-obsessed Brit who, ever since studying in Australia, is always plotting her next adventure, from surfing in Bali and swimming with sharks (and pigs!) in The Bahamas to searching for the Northern Lights in Iceland (she didn't find them) and cruising around Norway. You can follow her adventures at Kirst Over the World

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The top places to travel each month

Searching for the best places to travel ? We’ve got your list right here! We combined the top destinations to visit with the best places to travel each month to bring you the ultimate twelve-country travel guide for 2021 and 2022.

Start planning your dream trip

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World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

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The 20 best holiday destinations in May

By Faith Strickland and Laura Chubb

Can you almost taste it – Summer ’s citrusy zing in May’s creeping warmth and brightening light? May is a perfect time to travel; many holiday destinations are at their peak, and the sense of the upcoming new season is in the air.

Europe will be emerging into summer proper in 2024, everywhere from Tuscan hilltop towns to golden Grecian beaches – and, if you’re sustainably-minded, you can reach most of these dreamy destinations by train . And further afield, corners of Africa , the Caribbean and Canada will peak as well. So why wait a minute longer? It’s high time you hit the road. These are our favourite holiday destinations in May for sun, adventures and sightseeing.

1. Algarve, Portugal

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 18°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Before you dismiss the Algarve – look between the tourist resorts and there is a quieter, more peaceful side to this coast. Not to mention some of the most fantastic beaches in Europe. In May the weather's hotting up but it's not yet too busy. Stay at the wonderful Bela Vista Hotel with an amazing spa on Praia da Rocha; and explore the secluded town of Castro Marim . Yes, the area is synonymous with beach holidays – but venture off the beaten track for quiet hillside retreats set in olive groves, such as Casa Arte, or Fazenda Nova , a quaint country house.

Sustainable travel tip: Portugal has been hit especially hard in our tough economic times, and spending your entire holiday in the Algarve’s seaside resorts doesn’t do much to help. But making time to explore inland hiking routes and family-owned B&Bs isn’t just good for local business, it’s good for your holiday, too. The 185-mile Via Algarviana traverses the region’s hills and rural villages from east to west, with plenty of lovely places to stay along the way (try Casa do Lavrador in Furnazinhas, where breakfast comprises a heavenly spread of homemade preserves, breads and cheeses).

Where to stay: Pine Cliffs Hotel , a restorative retreat stretching across 178 acres with eight swimming pools, is probably bigger than any hotel you’ll have been to before. It’s the kind of place where you can hole up for a week without having to get back in the hot hire car. For grandeur, Bela Vista – a prominent castle-like building on the beach – is stunning. If you're travelling with little ones, Casa Olhão is private villa set up to sleep four (with the option to have a baby bed or cot provided), and has a spacious upstairs kitchen, comfortable outdoor dining terrace and a wonderful rooftop. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Algarve .

2. Sicily, Italy

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

The football at the toe of Italy ’s boot, the Mediterranean’s largest island is a reliably sunny way to kick off an early summer. There’s scalded volcano country and fertile wine land, Greek temples and Roman ruins. You can wander the shady lanes of baroque hill towns such as Ragusa, then stroll sun-soaked plazas in the coastal city of Syracuse. Come May, the countryside blooms, and the water lapping the beaches is warm. Bring your towel with you when you go to lunch in the old fishing village of Porto Palo – Sicily ’s prettiest secluded cove, Capparrina di Mare, is just a little further west.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool fact: you can travel to Sicily by rail, aboard an InterCity train that gets loaded onto a ferry for the seafaring part of the journey. Arrive in Paris via Eurostar, then take the overnight Thello sleeper to Milan. From here, you can catch an InterCity sleeper service to several Sicilian destinations: Messina, Catania, Siracuse or Palermo (choosing Messina means you’ll disembark in time for lunch). Sound complicated? Railbookers can deal with the details.

Where to stay: Time hits differently at the milky-stoned Il San Corrado , amid the olive groves and light-filled courtyards once owned by an Italian prince. Meanwhile opulent marble bathrooms and silky, wallpapered rooms spill onto terraces doused in golden sunlight at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo . If you're trip is inspired by The White Lotus , you can book into the exact hotel – San Domenico Palace on the north-east coast – or the palazzo – Villa Tasca in Palermo – featured in the hit show. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Sicily .

3. Catalonia, Spain

Temperature in May: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

There’s more to Catalonia than Barcelona – though May is an excellent time to explore the provincial capital, with hot days, clear skies and fewer folks ahead of the summer squeeze. Further north, Girona ’s old quarter is medieval enough to have starred in Game of Thrones . Plus, it’s the site of the nation’s greatest dining experience: El Celler De Can Roca hasn’t been hailed the world’s best restaurant twice by chance. Then head down to the Costa Brava, not the resort-y part, but the section where stone-cut towns such as Peratallada and Pals pack honey-hued charm, and beach-side Begur’s Cuban-style mansions house gorgeous, independent hotels. From here, it’s a short, winding drive to Aiguablava, this Costa’s most perfect patch of sand, in a Caribbean-blue bay. In May, you might just find a vacancy, before it feels like the most coveted sunbathing spot in Spain .

Sustainable travel tip: You can travel from London to Barcelona and Girona by train within a day. Once you’ve arrived in Paris on the Eurostar, board a high-speed TGV Duplex for Barcelona (about 7.5 hours) or Girona (seven hours).

Where to stay: Hotel Nord 1901 places you in prime position for seeing the sights, just a five-minute walk away from the cathedral. Or, if you wish to be amongst it all, Barcelona's hottest hotel The Hoxton Poblenou is a great option for exploring a new part of the city.

Temperature in May: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Tucked away between Sicily and Tunisia, Malta has a delicious mix of European and African culture while fiercely retaining its own identity. The tiny archipelago (including Gozo) starts to warm up by May, meaning days can be spent bronzing on sandy beaches in hidden coves, swimming in turquoise lagoons, or exploring ancient ruins and quaint fishing villages. If you're a little short on time, head to Europe's smallest capital city, Valletta , for a long weekend. Maltese food is a delight, with strong Mediterranean influences which produce dishes such as pistachio cannoli or honey-glazed rabbit. There's also wine bars hidden in twisty-turny side streets and a city so antiquated you feel as though you're in a museum. All this and it's right beside the sea.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of minutes’ walk from Valetta’s Grand Harbour, boutique hotel Locanda La Gelsomina hasn’t just sensitively restored a 500-year-old traditional Maltese building. The family-run hideaway also takes steps to reduce the not-insignificant impact of tourism on this small island, making use of solar-powered heating and rainwater collection.

Where to stay: Domus Zamittello , doubles from about £110, a restored baroque masterpiece by the bombed-out opera house, with painted coffered ceilings. Ursula Street is a favourite balconied address to walk down in Valletta, with several small palazzo hotels; try 66 Saint Paul’s to soak it all in.

5. Munich, Germany

Temperature in May: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Can’t wait until autumn to pull on the lederhosen? May in Munich brings Springfest (or Fruhlingfest), Oktoberfest’s little sister. Expect the same risky mix of fairground rides and beer-filled steins, but smaller and less lairy crowds. The city has its own version of hygge: ‘Gemütlichkeit’. Soak it up in one of the many twinkly pub gardens, or under the vaulted ceiling of a beer cellar. Enough hops? The sun is shining on river surfers riding the Eisbach wave in the Englischen Garten – a year-round swell best left to pros. It might just be warm enough for the park’s nude section to fill up, too; this is Germany , after all.

Sustainable travel tip: Travelling from England to Munich by train is easy and fast. After arriving in Paris on the Eurostar, catch a TGV Duplex train direct to Munich, or via Stuttgart. Journey time from Paris is about six hours.

Where to stay: Housed in an early 20th-century building, with manor-house interiors (frescoes and hunting images), Hotel Excelsior exudes rustic elegance. It has 113 rooms decorated in soft pastels. The stately Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski was built in 1858 near the Bavarian State Opera in the Old Town as a symbol of modernity: now, the lobby retains its old-world glamour with wood-panelled walls and an incredible stained-glass ceiling.

6. The Scottish Highlands

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 7°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

The Scottish Highlands are insanely beautiful year-round but in May they burst into life. The wildflowers and rhododendrons are brightfully blooming and the midges have not yet arrived to spoil the fun. There's something gloriously untamed and forgotten about The Highlands – wonderfully grand country estates such as Ardtornish are still the norm, with reams of lochs and lakes for fishing or acres of land for tramping. There's an abundance of romantic hidey-holes to forget about the rest of the world; and if you're finding May still a little chilly, a trip to a whisky distillery will soon warm you up. All this, so tantalisingly close to home.

Sustainable travel tip: Spend a night on the Caledonian Sleeper train and wake up in either outdoor adventure resort Aviemore, or the capital city of the Highlands, Inverness.

Where to stay: Glengorm Castle , a Brontë-esque pile of harmonious turrets and towers on the north coast of Mull, five miles from Tobermory, with guest cottages, flats and B&B rooms that are tweedy, toiley perfection. For a private stay, there are some incredible Airbns in this region. We love the look of this smart airship-turned-smart cabin bolthole that overlooks the Sound of Mull.

7. Brighton, United Kingdom

Temperature in May: 14°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour by train Time difference: GMT +0

Kinky and quirky. Bohemian and burlesque. Brighton invented Britain’s seaside scene long before Margate started luring London creatives from their concrete cocoons. It’s still our coolest beach town – for proof, come in May. That’s when the Great Escape new music festival hits: what The Times calls Britain’s answer to SXSW, and Steve Lamacq claims is the music world’s Cannes. Expect a studiously obscure line-up you’re definitely not hip enough to have heard of (sample bands: Pyschedelic Porn Crumpets; Tropical F*** Storm). Also on in May is Brighton Fringe. As England’s biggest open-access arts festival, count on it to bring the weird. Plus, the sun should be peeking onto that pebble beach this time of year. Sorry, Kent Riviera: Brighton’s just better.

Sustainable travel tip: Taste Brighton’s independent (and sustainable) spirit with Brighton Food Tours : itineraries focus solely on the city’s indie producers and vendors.

Where to stay: Artist Residence Brighton . A jaunty pink door marks out the terraced property on Regency Square. Inside, the arty rooms have boldly painted walls, while the communal spaces are a bit more muted, with exposed-brick walls and vintage furniture. Or in the city’s quieter, more grown-up neighbourhood just 15 minutes by bus from Brighton’s centre, the Ginger Pig is a favourite for smart locals. For self-catered options, take a look at our list of the best Airbnbs in Brighton.

8. Dublin, Ireland

Temperature in May: 15°C high, 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

What, not for St Patrick’s Day? But Dublin isn’t all braying pub mobs. In May it makes room for brooding artistes. Its writerly sons Joyce, Yeats and Wilde all wandered these Georgian streets for inspiration, and May’s annual International Literature Festival honours the capital’s high-minded pedigree, with authors flying in from all over the globe to argue and provoke. Then embark on a literary pub crawl, and sip pints where Dublin’s greatest writers did so a century before. In May, there’ll be moderate weather, crowds and prices: a pleasant time to wander the Grand Canal, dine in restaurant/bookshop The Winding Stair, and take in the works of new Irish playwrights at the Abbey Theatre, originally co-founded by Yeats.

Sustainable travel tip: Ferries sail daily from Liverpool and Holyhead to Dublin. Travel from Holyhead and you can buy ‘rail and sail’ tickets with both Irish Ferries and Stena Line, so you needn’t bother with a car at either end.

Where to stay: The Westbury , an enduring spot on the city’s scene and the flagship of the Irish, family-run Doyle Collection. Just off the shopping hub of Grafton Street, guest rooms have been spruced up with a lighter, brighter touch, and there are killer cocktails at the glamorous Sidecar bar. Or go all-out in this luxurious three-bedroom Airbnb hideaway . For more recommendations, see our edit of the best Dublin hotels .

Sarah James

Anna Prendergast

Condé Nast Traveller

Connor Sturges

9. Tuscany and Florence, Italy

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

If you weren't already head-over-heels in love with Italy, a trip to Tuscany will inevitably cast you into the deepest of adorations. The birthplace of the Italian language is crammed full of UNESCO world heritage sights, medieval country houses and ancient cities. This region isn't just a living, breathing museum though, it is also famed for its Chianti growing vines, rolling Tuscan hills, the crazily cute Cinque Terre and coastal region The Maremma . Florence , the capital, is great for a bank holiday weekend, warm enough to stroll in a sundress and devour gelato, but before the city becomes stuffy and overrun by organised tourist groups.

Sustainable travel tip: You can reach Florence by train, with a night in Milan for good measure. After arriving in Paris via Eurostar , catch a high-speed TGV train to Italy’s fashion capital (journey time: about seven hours). Next morning, a high-speed Frecciarossa train zips you to Florence in just a couple of hours.

Where to stay: Casa Iris , a thrillingly pretty guesthouse in the middle of the peninsula, is an elegant retreat in a place full of gelato-toting holidaymakers. And there’s no shortage of elegant hotels in Florence, but something about the St. Regis is extra wonderful: here, the royal treatment is for everyone. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Tuscany .

10. Norwegian Fjords

Temperature in May: 16°C high; 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 5 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Cruising through the fjords is one way to do it – another is a monumental road trip, skimming cliff edges and winding through greening countryside, above blue water sparkling below. In May, wildflowers are flourishing and hiking trails are blissfully quiet; free not only of tourists, but also of summer’s irksome midges. Drive the Discovery Route from Bergen and catch spring’s blossoming apple trees at dramatic Hardangerfjord, then feel your stomach drop at the lip of flat-topped Pulpit Rock. Steady your nerves back in Bergen, where Scandi -red clapboard houses sit aside buzzy cocktail bars; No Stress prides itself on its house-made syrups and juices, and can be relied upon for a good-time throng.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of regions in the fjords are a certified ‘Sustainable Destination’: a national labelling scheme that rewards areas deemed to be systematically preserving local culture and environment. Lyngenfjord offers outdoor adventures, visits with the Sami people and locally reared and foraged food; Lysefjord, home of Pulpit Rock, has excellent hiking routes and restaurants focused on local produce. Heart set on a cruise? Nærøyfjord can be explored onboard electric ferry Future , or the hybrid vessel Vision

Where to stay: Hotel Brosundet , a former fishing warehouse reimagined by Snøhetta, the progressive architectural outfit that designed the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in the centre of town. This place is so close to the water that some guests have been known to leap into the waves from the windows. Or for stunning views, you'll struggle to find better than this seaside Airbnb.

11. Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Think of the Greek Islands and think of whitewashed stone villages illuminated against the blue Aegean, ancient ruins and tiny little fishing villages. The Dodecanese islands, a chain of 12 larger islands ( Rhodes is the best known of them) and lots of little ones, are all these clichés and more. For a real taste of Greek life, the volcanic island of Nisyros is wonderfully welcoming and a haven for artists. Symi, half an hour from the Turkish coast, has Michelin stars and is glamorously old school, Kastellorizo inspired the likes of Pink Floyd and Patmos has incredible Byzantine architecture, or if you can't settle on one, go island hopping on the Calypso.

Sustainable travel tip: Reaching Rhodes without boarding a plane is possible, but you’ll need to be dedicated. Probably the simplest way is to take the Eurostar to Paris, followed by a TGV to Munich (seven hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend a night and day in the Serbian capital. An overnight train will then take you to Thessaloniki, from where you can enjoy a very scenic journey on an InterCity train to Athens (four hours). Finally, an overnight ferry sails you to Rhodes. Now, here’s the catch: the sleeper to Thessaloniki only operates mid-June to mid-September. See the brilliant Seat61.com for an alternative route that involves a second ferry and more train changes.

Where to stay: Melenos Lindos, for decorative wooden ceilings, Ottoman-inspired hand-painted tiles, raised wooden sleeping platforms with elaborate carved woodwork, and mirror frames inlaid with mother of pearl. At the terrace bar and restaurant (which serves seasonal Greek food), a vine-covered pergola is threaded with tiny lanterns. For pure, Greek Island relaxation we love this Airbnb with a private pool.

12. Istanbul, Turkey

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 13°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +3

Before Turkey's blazing summer heat sets in, head to Istanbul for an easy and accessible city break from the UK . The city is a glorious mish-mash of European and Asian culture – buzzing bazaars filled with keen-to-haggle hawkers selling trinkets sit next to contemporary art galleries. Sunrise calls to prayer from glittering mosques intertwine with the sound of electronic music from boat nightclubs floating on the Bosphorus. There are countless palatial hotels to stay in; or consider Soho House 's Istanbul outpost, a little haven in this electrifying city.

Sustainable travel tip: Yes, you absolutely can travel to Istanbul by train, though it’ll take you a good four days. The route, however, is a fascinating one, in parts retracing the journey the Orient Express made back in the 1920s. Arrive in Paris on the Eurostar, then take a TGV Duplex to Munich (6.5 hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend the night there before travelling onwards to Sofia (11.5 hours, summer service runs direct until mid September). Explore the Bulgarian capital before the final leg, an overnight sojourn aboard the Sofia-Istanbul Express.

Where to stay: Soho House Istanbul . The restoration of this 19th-century palace in the city's coolest district is one of the London hotel group's biggest and most ambitious projects, with 120 light-flooded and serene bedrooms. Or, to escape the crowds, Six Senses Kocatas Mansion s is pure luxury (and the hotel has a boat to take you to Istanbul, should you wish). For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Istanbul .

13. Egypt, Africa

Temperature in May: 34°C high; 24°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Rebounding Egypt shows new confidence this year with the long-awaited opening of its $1 billion Grand Egyptian Museum (after several delays, it’s slated to welcome visitors by the end of 2020). Just over a mile from the show-stopping Giza Pyramid Complex, the museum promises, among other things, a faithful reconstruction of Tutankhamun’s extravagantly ornamented tomb, featuring more than 5,000 original pieces. Though the country’s troubles have not vanished, the number of returning tourists has crept upwards enough to encourage other luxuries; the new Cairo St Regis is a chic high-rise hotel offering respite from street-level chaos. May might be the best time to see Egypt’s wonders without an accompanying rabble, before summer gets truly sweltering, but off-season enough to bag five-stars for less.

Sustainable travel tip: Cruising down the Nile on your bucket list? Set sail on a traditional wooden felucca , a more sustainable option than the ubiquitous four-storey floating hotels, some of which are known to pollute the river with fuel and sewage.

Where to stay: At one of Egypt’s best beach hotels and red sea diving spots, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh . Or, this mini house near Cairo is a photographer's dream, available to book on Airbnb.

14. Memphis, USA

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -6

The Memphis in May Festival – a month of celebrations centred around the beloved preoccupations of blues and barbecue – brings an already party-loving city even more to life. Lately, this storied part of the American South has been gifted with a little extra sparkle, too: an expanded Graceland features an entire museum dedicated solely to Elvis’s cars; the new Mighty Lights of Hernando de Soto Bridge shine a nightly show over the Mississippi’s swell. Beale Street remains an essential destination: a neon strip of legendary blues clubs. And don’t leave without a taste of those famed baby-back ribs. With around 115 barbecue restaurants inside the city, there’s really no excuse.

Sustainable travel tip: Memphis may not exactly be pedestrian-friendly, but, thanks to the recent development of more than 300 miles of bike lanes, there’s now a quick and clean way to navigate both downtown and the city’s wider sprawl. Explore Bike Share supplies the Memphis version of Boris bikes, accessed via an app.

Where to stay : In the downtown district of Memphis lies The Peabody , a grand hotel a favourite of locals and travellers.

15. Bahamas, Caribbean

Temperature in May: 29°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -5

Behold the Bahamian sweet spot: May. The winter hordes long gone, and spring-breakers freshly departed. Hurricane season doesn’t set in until June . Beaches relieved of rowdy crowds settle sedately in the sun. There’s nothing to do but stake out your patch on pristine Cabbage Beach (even quieter at the north end), take your pick of poolside lounge chairs, and pluck the fruits of Gladstone Road Farmers Market (open until the end of the month). You might even splash about with a sow at Pig Beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Andros Island isn’t just an unspoiled slice of backcountry untroubled by cruise ships and high-rise hotels; it’s also home to Tiamo , an impressive eco-lodge with just 13 thatched bungalows fringed by white beach and thick palms. Tiamo runs on solar power, has composting toilets (though you wouldn’t know it to look at them), and employs staff from local communities who are trained as nature guides – take an informed boat tour through mangroves or explore caves and forests inland.

Where to stay: On a private oceanfront estate with Versailles-like gardens at Four Season's The Ocean Club . Guests can dine at top chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Dune, indulge in the Balinese-inspired One&Only Spa, or relax by the oceanfront pool. A mix of locality, cerulean sea, and ultra-private intimacy makes Rosewood Baha Mar the easiest place to stop in to for winter sun without becoming a total beach bum.

16. Botswana, Africa

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 10°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT +2

The Okavango Delta hogs all the press, but Chobe National Park, in Botswana ’s north-east corner, is every bit as captivating, especially in May. It’s the beginning of dry season, but just before high season, so camps aren’t too crowded, the weather is mild (around 25°C) and evaporating surface water drives large herds of animals to the Chobe River. Cruise past crocs and hippos on a boat safari, with a glass of chilled South African wine in hand. The park is also home to one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephants. andBeyond’s Chobe Under Canvas provides a proper adventure, bringing you as close to nature as you might care to get.

Sustainable travel tip: Most national parks and reserves in Botswana lease the land from local communities, generating royalties that are invested back into the community and into conservation. The country has also created an Eco-Certification System for tourism businesses (more here botswanatourism.co.bw ), so check whether your operator and/or accommodation is meeting those standards. For more inspiration, see our pick of Six incredible safari lodges in Botswana.

Where to stay: Jack’s Camp is an old-world, Moroccan-style glamorous tented safari camp in the middle of Botswana’s arid Kgalagadi. Amongst the many lodges in Botswana are some stunning Airbnbs too - this farm has taken our fancy.

17. California, USA

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT -8

Come May we're California -dreamin' – of Yosemite National Park, cool and quirky San Francisco and shiny sparkly Los Angeles . If you harbour Jack Kerouac fantasies then take an all-American road trip through the state or along Big Sur. Conversely, the cities and towns of California are diverse and interesting enough individually to brave the long-haul flight for. San Francisco is the state capital of food and outdoor action (if not the actual state capital), while Los Angeles is a strange glittering town of health, wealth and youth, and San Diego is great for surfing. The smaller towns dotted along this sunny coast, such as Malibu and Palm Springs , are also charming enough to keep you occupied.

Sustainable travel tip: Between tech giants and movie studios, California is overwhelmingly agricultural, and its status as the nation’s food basket means the majority of its trendy farm-to-table restaurants are the real deal. San Francisco, in particular, champions regional farms and producers all over its menus: avoid Downtown tourist traps and head for hot restaurants in hip ’hoods such as Cow Hollow and the Mission. Don’t miss the temple to local food at the Ferry Building’s covered market, either.

Where to stay: Little sister to the smarter Palihouse, Palihotel has 32 rooms with a velvety bohemian glamour and Dean & Deluca snacks in the bulging mini-bars. For the full LA experience, there's even the Eggslut food truck outside. Or, For a design hotel, The Hoxton in Downtown LA is a firm favourite.

18. Vancouver Island

Temperature in May: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 9 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

In amongst the knotted tangle of Vancouver Island 's evergreen forest, it's easy to forget that this is supposedly the most populated island in North America. Mother Nature is still queen, with bears roaming the interior and excellent whale-watching off the coast. Even if you're not barmy about wildlife, this island is one big playground. Daredevils can throw themselves down whitewater rapids, paraglide from peaks or snorkel and dive the sea. There's a more chilled-out side too; the surfer town of Tofino is quickly becoming the best place for food, while glamping takes on new heights at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort .

Sustainable travel tip: Pay a visit to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The park falls within the traditional territories of nine different nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth people, and park authorities work closely with those nations to manage the lands respectfully and represent First Nations culture. It’s one of few examples of tourism in Canada working for indigenous people, and is well worth supporting.

Where to stay: Check into Clayoquot Wilderness Resort , where you'll find a spa, a sauna and hot tubs for starlit nights, plus open fireplaces and deep chairs for that novel you’ve been meaning to read. The safari- style tents, set on platforms in the woods along the Bedwell River, are big, elegant and beautifully done out with Western-colonial furniture, colourful tribal rugs and wood-burning stoves.

19. Cape Verde

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 7 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -1

Known as Africa's answer to the Galápagos Islands, richly diverse Cape Verde is good for a guaranteed hit of sunshine located in The Atlantic. The dramatic interior hides volcanic hot springs and arid deserts, while the beaches, with their azure seas and white sands, are more befitting of the Caribbean. With this abundance of natural resources and a dash of African charm and culture, Cape Verde's potential is finally being recognised.

Sustainable travel tip: Most tourists head to Cape Verde for a fly-and-flop holiday, but why not prioritise local culture and landscape with Responsible Travel ’s walking and cultural trip instead? The itinerary includes stays at family-run guesthouses and plumps for hiking routes that don’t trample over ecologically delicate areas.

Where to stay: Odjo d'Aqua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can eat as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

20. Lake District, England

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 4°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 5 hours drive from London Time difference: GMT

Cumbria might not be basking in glorious early-summer sunshine come May, but spring is still one of the loveliest times to finally pay a visit to the Lake District National Park . Ironically, in these parts, lakes are actually diversely known as ‘meres,’ ‘tarns’ and ‘waters’. Whatever you call these vast bodies of water, a May trip promises joyful signs of the changing seasons, from carpets of bluebells to spotting Herdwick lambs to rich cherry blossoms – all without the crowds that flock here once summer-proper arrives.

Sustainable travel tip: Where possible, leave a car behind and sightsee on public transport, by bike or on foot.

Where to stay: Set on a hillside a short drive from Lake Windermere, Gilpin Hotel sprawls across 21 acres of verdant grounds. Or check into low-key country-house Another Place in Ullswater for uninterrupted views of the lake and brilliant on-site restaurants.

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When is the best time to visit Europe?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Europe is from late March to early June (spring), or between September and November (fall). You’ll avoid the busy summer period and see your money go further.

Vibrant Easter celebrations across southern Europe create a particularly interesting time to visit, while a September or October trip will coincide with the grape harvest.

However, Europe makes a good year-round destination. Northern Europe is generally warm and dry between May and September, while farther south, temperatures can reach 97°F between July and August.

Winter in northern Europe is cool and wet, while the south is mild, making it a good time to explore the cities.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Europe

Visiting Europe in January

The mild Mediterranean winter is a good time to visit the cities of Southern Europe. You’re rewarded with quieter streets and museums, better value for money and availability, and less waiting in line to enter popular attractions. Although temperatures are cooler, and some regional attractions may have limited opening hours, the sense of seeing a city at a more relaxed time more than compensates.

Events & Festivals

• In Iceland, chances of seeing the northern lights are best between November and February, when the sun sets before 6pm and the nights are longest.
• The Icelandic Þorrablót winter festival is celebrated from mid-January to mid-February. Þorrablót is an old pagan festival originally celebrated by Iceland’s early settlers over 1,000 years ago. Revived in the 1800s, it brings local people together to eat, drink, dance and sing traditional songs.

Visiting Europe in February

In February, much of Southern Europe gears up for a pre-Lent party with carnivals in many cities, such as Nice and Venice. Temperatures are still cool, and some attractions may be closed or have reduced opening hours, but many make exceptions for carnival time when they open for special events during the large-scale local festivities.

• Europe’s largest carnival is held in Nice over two weeks in February, when the city erupts in a series of parades, dancing and flower battles.
• Expect elaborate masks and costumes, masquerade balls and full-on revelry at the Carnival of Venice held in the two weeks before Lent.

Visiting Europe in March

By March, temperatures are beginning to warm up in Southern Europe, though there may still be some rain. Depending on when Easter falls, you can find elaborate celebrations for Holy Week (the week before Easter) taking place. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, 17th March sees parades and plenty of street parties for the national feast of Saint Patrick’s Day.

• Holy Week is a time for religious processions across Spain and, to a lesser extent, in Portugal and Italy.
• Saint Patrick’s Day on 17th March is the culmination of week-long celebrations in Dublin.

Visiting Europe in April

Spring blooms, warmer temperatures and generally blue skies arrive in Southern Europe in April, at a time when most hotels re-open and attractions switch to summer opening hours. Although Northern Europe is a little further behind, the weather is drier and warmer than earlier in the year, as the days become noticeably longer. You might also catch Holy Week celebrations across Southern Europe in the week before Easter.

• If Holy Week falls in April, you’ll see religious processions in many Spanish cities, as well as in Portugal, and Italy and Greece.
• The Istanbul Tulip Festival, running from April into May, pays homage to one of Turkey’s most cherished flowers.
• Seville’s annual fair in the two weeks after Easter, brings carnival rides and dancing to the Spanish city.

Visiting Europe in May

By May, Europe’s gardens are looking their best, bright blooms cascade from window boxes and the summer crowds are yet to arrive, in one of the best months to visit Europe. Southern Europe is pleasantly warm, making it a good time for exploring historic sites or cities, while Northern Europe, though cooler, has long days and generally settled weather.

• The Chelsea Flower Show, the Royal Horticultural Society’s biggest event of the year, takes place in London in late May.
• The Reykjavík Arts Festival takes place for three weeks each year in May or June. This is a major event in the capital that invites hundreds of artists from around the world to showcase their work.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Chamber Music Festival takes place in the summer (month varies) in southern Iceland, on a magnificent lava-field landscape.

Visiting Europe in June

Clear blue skies and rising temperatures see the beach towns of Southern Europe burst into action. It’s a good time to tour the Mediterranean, laze on a Greek island or explore major cities without the summer crowds. In Northern Europe, daylight stretches long into the evening, temperatures are pleasant and, ahead of schools breaking up, attractions are generally quieter.

Visiting Europe in July

Higher temperatures, long hours of sunshine and the school summer break signal July as the start of Europe’s busiest travel season, with larger numbers of visitors across Europe. The lavender fields in Provence are at their best, and beachgoers are rewarded with glorious sunshine. Many festivities and events take place, including concerts in historic buildings.

• On 14th July, Bastille Day, the French national holiday is celebrated across the country with military parades, fireworks and concerts.
• Open-air performances and concerts take place in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, and in Sicily’s Greek theaters in Syracuse and Taormina.
• The Palio, a historic horse race between the city’s contrade (districts), takes place in Siena on 2nd July.

Visiting Europe in August

It’s holiday season in Europe, with many locals flocking to the beaches to escape the heat inland, particularly in the south. Much of France closes down for the month, and the Mediterranean beaches and cities can feel crowded. Northern Europe is quieter, and the fair weather and long days make it a good time to explore England, Scotland and Ireland.

• The Palio, a historic horse race between the city’s contrade (districts), takes place in Siena on 16th August.
• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival with comedy, dance and theater performances held over three weeks in August.
• Menningarnótt (Culture Night) is celebrated in Reykjavík in August. This is a major event, with roads closing for street performers and fireworks in the evening.
• Fiskidagurinn Mikli (Great Fish Day) takes place on the first or second Saturday of August in the fishing village of Dalvík, in north Iceland. This is a big social event, with outdoor seafood buffets, and free fish soup offered in locals’ homes.
• Síldarævintýri (Herring Adventure Music Festival) is hosted in the town of Siglufjörður, in north Iceland, over the early August public holiday. In the past, the festival has featured a broad range of Icelandic music, from folk singing to Sigur Rós.

Visiting Europe in September

As schools go back, temperatures decrease and the summer crowds dissipate, September proves a great time to visit Europe. The temperatures are still pleasant, the sea is at its warmest, and there are fewer people at major attractions and on the coast. It’s also harvest time, with food festivals and events celebrating the wine, cheese, truffles, oysters and olives of the region.

• The Regata Storica takes place in Venice on the first Sunday in September, with gondola races, gondoliers in traditional dress and waterborne pageantry.
• The grape harvest begins across Southern Europe toward the end of September, and some wineries invite visitors to see the process take place.

Visiting Europe in October

Cooler temperatures make October a good time to visit the cities and explore on foot. Seasonal foliage brings the countryside to life, and regional harvests and their associated festivals continue. While the south is pleasantly warm by day, nights are cooler. By the end of the month, Northern Europe is noticeably colder and wetter but can still see periods of warm, settled weather.

• Held on the first Saturday in October, Nuit Blanche (White Night) is an all-night arts festival in Paris, where museums and galleries stay open, and street performances and art installations liven up public squares.

Visiting Europe in November

November is one of the quietest months of the year to travel to Europe. Many hotels and attractions close, and cooler temperatures lead to far fewer visitors on the streets. It’s also a time when you can benefit from better value on flights and hotel reservations. Major museums, galleries and historic sites are quieter, and you can photograph Europe’s landmarks at their most tranquil.

Visiting Europe in December

Christmas dominates the European cultural calendar in December, as festive markets and lights brighten up the cities. Although rural areas are much quieter, the countryside under a dusting of frost or snow can look magical in the north. New Year’s celebrations are another good reason to visit, when you’ll experience street parties and fireworks in most major cities.

• In the 13 days before Christmas in Iceland, troll-like Jólasveinar (‘Yule lads’) are said to visit children one-by-one in the days leading up to Christmas. Formerly, they tried to play tricks on people, but now they leave children small gifts. You might see the Jólasveinar projected onto buildings in Reykjavík, and they visit some hotels to leave small tokens for guests.
• New Year’s Eve is the biggest party of the year in Iceland, when bonfires and fireworks are lit, and Icelanders gather to share the warmth and sing. Belief in elves (huldufólk) is widespread in the country and they’re said to be most active at New Year, so it’s common for Icelanders to reference them in songs at this time of year.
• New Year’s Eve celebrations (Hogmanay in Scotland) see London, Paris and Edinburgh lit up with fireworks and festivities.

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A Family Travel Blog

The Best Countries to Visit (Our 20 Favorite Countries Ranked)

By Eric Stoen on May 13, 2020 • Last Updated March 1, 2024 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Rating Every Country We’ve Traveled To

During the COVID-19 shutdown we were at home and looking for ways to stay entertained, so I asked my wife and kids to rate every country they’ve been to from 1 to 10. I added in my votes and ranked every country that had at least two votes. The goal: come up with a list of the best countries to visit, at least from our experience.

Everyone could vote based on any criteria. In general the ratings were consistent from person to person, but there were some definite outliers – places where one person remembered things differently than the others. In a family of five, you can’t always keep everyone happy. We had some fun discussions when people disagreed!

Our Top 20 Countries (the 20 Best Countries to Visit)

In order to give you family travel ideas, here are our top 20 countries to travel to. Keep in mind that at the time we created this list our girls were 10 and 14 and our son was 12, and they had been to 62 countries. We split our travels between cities and nature and add in frequent cultural activities and cooking classes. We don’t go to a lot of museums or concentrate on history. Likewise we don’t spend full days at the beach or shopping.

Five continents are represented in our top 20. Australia came in at number 21, and our top African country is the Seychelles at 29.

Note that I’m including the average score after every destination.

20. The Netherlands (7.3)

Favorite Places: Amsterdam, the Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields throughout the country in the spring.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Amsterdam is usually a 1-2 day layover for us. We love the city but I’ve never written about it.

19. Chile (7.4)

Favorite Places: Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Easter Island. Santiago is fun for a day or two as well.

Relevant Blog Posts: Spring Break in Patagonia | Chile’s Atacama Desert with Kids | Easter Island with a 6-Year-Old

15 (tie). Antarctica (7.5)

Favorite Places: Antarctica isn’t, strictly speaking, a country, but it’s an amazing place to visit with or without kids. We’ve taken our kids at 8 and 12 and loved everything about it.

Relevant Blog Posts: Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old ; Adventures By Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition ; An Antarctica Packing List

15 (tie). Indonesia (7.5)

Favorite Places: Indonesia is mainly about Bali for us, since my daughters love the island, but Borobudur is amazing as well. We want to keep exploring.

Relevant Blog Posts: Bali with Kids | How to Visit Borobudur

15 (tie). Norway (7.5)

Favorite Places: We love Oslo and Bergen, especially in the summer, and the Norway in a Nutshell tour is a great way to travel between them. The fjords are gorgeous as well, and Tromsø in the arctic circle is a good way to experience the midnight sun.

Relevant Blog Post: Oslo with Kids . Most of my Norwegian travels were pre-kids and I haven’t written about them.

15 (tie). Sweden (7.5)

Favorite Places: Stockholm and Gothenburg are both great cities to explore for a few days, but we love the coastal towns and the forests of Central Sweden.

Relevant Blog Posts: Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden | The Icebug Xperience West Coast Trail

14. Turkey (7.6)

Favorite Places: Istanbul and Cappadocia. And we loved our day on a gulet near Bodrum.

Relevant Blog Posts: Istanbul with Kids | An Amazing Trip to Cappadocia with Kids | Bodrum with Kids

13. Switzerland (7.7)

Favorite Places: My wife and I have traveled all over Switzerland pre-marriage and loved all of the small towns – places like Interlaken, Crans-Montana and Luzern – and I recently hiked and biked from Engelberg to Interlaken. With the kids we’ve only explored Zurich on layovers and Lake Lugano on a day trip from Como. Definitely one of the best countries to visit – we just need to plan more Swiss trips with the kids.

Relevant Blog Post: Hiking in Switzerland: Engelberg to Interlaken

12. The Maldives (7.8)

Favorite Places: Six Senses Laamu in the Laamu Atoll.

Relevant Blog Posts: Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere | A Return to Paradise

11. Canada (7.9)

Favorite Places: Vancouver, Banff and Winnipeg and the surrounding areas. Victoria on Vancouver Island is fun as well.

Relevant Blog Post: Manitoba, Canada with Kids . All of our other Canada trips were before I started writing about our travels.

10. Croatia (8.0)

Favorite Places: Zagreb and Plitvice National Park. We still need to get to Krka National Park and Dubrovnik.

Relevant Blog Posts: Croatia With Kids: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes

9. Brazil (8.3)

Favorite Places: The Amazon Rainforest and the Rio Negro. Manaus is worth a day or two as well. We haven’t been to Rio yet.

Relevant Blog Posts: The Amazon Rainforest with Kids: A Magical (Unplugged) Expedition

7 (tie). Laos (8.5)

Favorite Places: We’ve only been to Luang Prabang and loved it. We need to explore the rest of the country.

Relevant Blog Post: Asia with Kids: A Crazy Three-Week, Six-Country Itinerary

7 (tie). Japan (8.5)

Favorite Places: Tokyo, Kyoto, Naoshima Island and Hiroshima

Relevant Blog Posts: Kyoto to Hiroshima, a 10-Day Journey | 10 Places Not to Miss in Tokyo | Tokyo with Kids Made Easy | Kyoto with Kids | Hokkaido: Adventure in Northern Japan

6. Portugal (8.7)

Favorite Places: Lisbon, Cascais and Sintra. Still haven’t visited Porto or the Douro Valley.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Definitely one of the best countries to travel to, but our trips have largely been focused around weddings.

5. New Zealand (8.8)

Favorite Places: The South Island. We’ve explored it far more than the North Island, even though we’ve visited Auckland several times.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. We need to go back and see more, and I’ll write about it next time!

3 (tie). Faroe Islands (9.0)

Favorite Places: Torshavn, Tjørnuvik, Saksun, Gjógv, Mykines

Relevant Blog Post: An Amazing Week in the Faroe Islands (with Kids)

3 (tie). France (9.0)

Favorite Places: Paris, Provence

Relevant Blog Posts: The Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids | Tips for Visiting Paris on a Budget | 10 Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Paris

2. Italy (9.1)

Favorite Places: Florence, the Dolomites, Venice, Cortona, Cinque Terre, Rome, Lake Como, Ravenna, San Gimignano

Relevant Blog Posts: Florence with Kids: What to Do and Where to Stay | Our Favorite Restaurants in Florence | How to Visit Cinque Terre | Positano Italy (and the Amalfi Coast) | Why You Should Never Do a Day Trip to Florence or Rome | A Week in Florence without Kids | A Perfect Trip to Florence with Kids | Venice in High Season with Kids | Italy Unplugged: A Week in Emilia Romagna | Hiking the Via Francigena Through Tuscany | Kid-Friendly Adventure in Trentino’s Stunning Val di Fassa | Adventures with Kids in the Dolomites: Trentino’s Val di Fiemme | Two Weeks on Lake Como with Kids | A Villa in Tuscany for a Month

1. Greece (9.8)

Favorite Places: Naxos, Paros, Santorini (or pretty much any Greek island in the summer, unless it sees a lot of cruise ships)

Relevant Blog Posts: Naxos Greece: Our Favorite Island | Three Weeks on the Greek Island of Naxos with Kids | A Day Trip from Naxos to Santorini | Paros Greece with Kids

The Best Countries to Visit: Your Turn

What are the best countries to visit from your family’s experience? Do you agree/disagree with our ranking? Would love to hear your thoughts on the best countries to travel to in the comments below.

And I should note that a lot of people are finding this post when Googling “coolest countries to visit”. So I did a separate post on the coolest countries .

Travel Insurance

We never used to travel with travel health coverage, or even trip cancellation insurance, but we regretted that when my wife broke her knee traveling recently. I write about it here . I highly recommend purchasing insurance – either on an annual basis if you travel a lot, or for individual trips. We went with G1G based on price and what they offer.

More from Travel Babbo

May 14, 2020 at 11:13 am

This is such an inspiring list! I can’t wait to do some rankings with the kids. Our plans to spend a month in Greece this summer (inspired by your article on Naxos) have been derailed, but seeing it as number one on your list validates our decision to reschedule it as our long trip next summer.

May 14, 2020 at 11:16 am

Our June Naxos plans fell through, but we’re still optimistic about August – if they’ll let Americans in and if the airlines are flying, we’ll be there.

May 16, 2020 at 12:01 am

You have been to some amazing places. Interesting that Europe has scored so highly with all the family.

May 18, 2020 at 8:00 am

We’ve traveled to Europe the most, so maybe there’s a sense of familiarity and comfort, especially for the kids? If I was doing my own ranking there are a lot of non-European countries that would be in the top 20, including Ecuador, India and Tanzania.

November 15, 2020 at 9:06 am

Ecuador is the only country my kids have traveled to and we loved it!

May 17, 2020 at 5:38 pm

No. 1. Jordan. We all had a magnificent time there. Small Country so easy to see everything but every day was something different and a different period of history.

2. Grand Cayman. 7 mile beach is just gorgeous. Easy to get to and clean and friendly.

We had a disaster of a trip to Italy but I’d go back to Venice in a heartbeat.

May 18, 2020 at 7:57 am

I’ve only spent one day in Jordan, in Petra, but it’s at the top of my list to return to.

We haven’t been to Grand Cayman, simply because the Caribbean can be a hassle to reach from California. It’s easier to get to Fiji than Grand Cayman. But I’ll add it to our list!

May 22, 2020 at 2:37 pm

Great list, and so many places I need to visit! I’ll add the Czech Republic, in particular Prague, to the discussion. I love Prague for all of its magical architecture and the ability to walk everywhere. And, so many great little outdoor cafes either right in the center of town or along the canal.

May 22, 2020 at 2:40 pm

Thanks Megan! The Czech Republic actually finished towards the bottom of our list, but for the kids at least that was based solely on one August visit when Prague was very crowded. I think they would like it better if we were to return in the spring or fall. It’s an amazing city, just not fun with too many people. And I want to explore a lot more of the country as well.

May 23, 2020 at 4:58 pm

I absolutely love reading your blogs and post. Thank you. Though my kids are older now, we did go ‘round the world’ with them, with partners and a grandson in 2018. Tokyo to Porto then a week on a small (36 passengers) boat from Dubrovnik to Split, on to BC in Canada then a relax in Santa Monica before home. Every place held something special and was so different to the next. I would say the highlight for us all was Canada- we stayed in a small town called Smithers and the the younger ones did extreme mountain bike riding, fishing, hiking, shooting at the gun range and drives to nearby First Nation sites. Unbelievable. I loved it so much I went back in 2019 and did 5 weeks Canada/Alaska which was out of this world.

May 25, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Thanks Joanne! Your trip sounds amazing – a lot of our favorite places. We still haven’t been to Porto though. And we would love to explore Canada more. I’ll add Smithers to our list.

May 29, 2020 at 3:54 am

Great places.

How wonderful for the children. We are slow budget family travellers and often find ourselves saying that we want our kids to have places to discover on their own. Travelling as a family is truly wonderful and we love it. Maybe it will be the highlight of our lives as parents. Yet, as they get older we find ourselves thinking more of solo or exchange trips for them alone that doesn’t include us plus trips for just the two of us that don’t include them. Like much of parenting it is a tough call…

June 20, 2020 at 12:31 am

Pretty amazed that Greece beat out Italy (and by a large margin) given your love of Florence. What happened to Spain?

June 20, 2020 at 2:59 pm

Spain is roughly halfway down our list. The kids have only been 3 times, and only for a day or two each time.

September 5, 2020 at 10:03 am

You have missed cape Town as other interesting place to visit.

September 6, 2020 at 7:30 pm

1) I love Cape Town. 2) Cape Town is not a country. 3) We have not taken our kids to South Africa so it was not included in our voting.

June 1, 2023 at 12:13 pm

So far, South Africa, Israel and Switzerland have been my favs. Israel is so impactful, obviously, for different reasons. Costa Rica is pretty nice. The U.S. is up there if you think in terms of Kawaii, Hawaii and parts of CA, OR, WA. Austria was great. England was was as well. France nice, but overall, I would put South Africa at the top of the list of all the places we have visited.

November 28, 2020 at 9:26 am

Pointers for Switzerland travel from US for perhaps one full week in the country? Note: We are rather healthy but in our late 60’s. Love your blog and robust sense of adventure and open minds regarding diverse cultures!

November 29, 2020 at 2:26 pm

Hi Scott. I asked my friend Kate in Zurich for suggestions, since she knows Switzerland far better than I do.

Her thoughts: For a week in Switzerland I would suggest taking the train as it’s so easy, safe, and convenient. Plus, you get to see the Swiss landscapes the whole time. Spend a day exploring old town Zürich, the next day take the train to Luzern and explore it overnight. The rest of the week take the train to Lauterbrunnen and spend a few days exploring the beautiful hiking and waterfalls, sleeping in either Wengen, Grindelwald, or Mürren. If there’s extra time, visit Rhinefalls and the cute historic town of Stein am Rhine.

December 4, 2020 at 9:28 am

Have you visited mexico? Was expecting mexico on the list…..I’ve never been there though

December 4, 2020 at 9:43 am

Mexico was halfway down our list. We love San Miguel de Allende, I’m a huge fan of Mexico City, and my wife has a lot of family history in Mexico. But we’ve spent too much time in touristy, less-interesting areas like Los Cabos, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. We need to explore more of real Mexico.

June 1, 2021 at 7:25 am

You should visit Oaxaca and Chiapas…..amazing places

June 1, 2021 at 7:58 am

Of course! On our list.

January 27, 2021 at 4:27 pm

I’ve enjoyed perusing your lists! Since the majority of us aren’t doing much travel these days, our travel group likes to reminisce about our past travel adventures. You’ve done a country list and city list. Next up, consider a favorite experience/activity while traveling. Here’s our top 10 experiences: 1) Safari in the Serengeti & Ngorogoro Crater 2) Antarctica cruise 3) Amazon River cruise and live aboard 4) Diving and snorkeling in Palawan, Philippines 5) Live aboard and diving on the Great Barrier Reef 6) Great White Shark cage diving in Cape Town 7) Visiting Skellig Michael Island in Ireland 8) Southern Alps plane tour in New Zealand 9) Ziplining in Costa Rica 10) Spending the night in a treehouse in Sri Lanka

I would love to hear what you and your family’s top experiences have been. Gives others great ideas for future travel too.

Aloha, Bonnie

January 27, 2021 at 4:55 pm

Thanks Bonnie! I did a post back in 2016 with our favorite activities ( https://travelbabbo.com/ten-cool-kid-friendly-activities/ ) but it could definitely be time to update that with more recent things. I was thinking about having the kids rate hotels too.

May 24, 2021 at 12:21 pm

I have a soon to be 7yo & 2yo, we are trying to decide on where to go next year as a little family holiday and I am determined to take us somewhere that is more than just playing by the pool and beach. This list has given me more destinations to add to the TTT list. I am stuck between Croatia and Naxos in Greece to start off with as they both look amazing!

May 24, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great! Both Croatia and Greece would make excellent destinations. Naxos will definitely have more beach/pool time, Croatia would be a little more culture and nature.

May 24, 2021 at 6:47 pm

My first thought is, will you adopt me. WOW your kids are lucky and I am sure so well educated. I was happy to see Portugal on your list. A kinda unknown, great value hidden treasure of Europe. And I gotta say, I love the southern coast of Spain. Your list was really fun to read and some never entered my mind and to be honest, one I have to look up as I have no idea where it is. I am excited to see what is coming from you and your family as being retired, it is time to get back to traveling. If you could note somewhere how the traveling would be for senior single female it would be great. Many years ago, I traveled to Isreal and Greece alone (not a senior back then), but I loved it.

May 25, 2021 at 9:40 am

Thanks Tracy! I’m glad you’re inspired! And I definitely need to explore southern Spain more.

I am unable to write about travel from a senior single female perspective as I am none of those, and I only blog from personal experience. There are so many good travel blogs though – if you search around you should be able to find someone who matches you and your travel style perfectly.

June 5, 2021 at 9:03 am

I vote for this location as NUMBER ONE ! ! Without a doubt ……

The Amalfi coast in Italy ! ! ! the most beautiful… people, hotels, food views, …… on and on ! ! !

June 16, 2021 at 8:44 am

Great list! Just a note, it’s Vancouver Island in Canada, not Victoria Island 🙂

June 16, 2021 at 10:37 am

Thank you so much! Change made!

July 23, 2021 at 9:36 am

Nice Post Eric! I am afraid to travel alone and you travel with kids. Hats off to you. Maybe some day I will also travel like you. Great Post Man.

Please visit India some day.

July 23, 2021 at 9:41 am

I have visited India many times, both with and without kids. One of my favorite countries!

February 7, 2022 at 8:44 am

Taiwan is definitely the best. I bet the only reason it’s not here is because they didn’t go. I recommend it!

February 7, 2022 at 9:13 am

We’ve been to Taiwan – you could have done a search for Taiwan on this website, or gone to my About Me page , to verify that. It finished roughly halfway down our rankings. Would love to return.

March 3, 2022 at 8:49 am

Love this list. Having traveled and lived abroad we are excited to return to travel overseas soon with our 9-year old daughter. Having lived in Estonia for four years, I highly recommend it. Very found memories of the people, land and sauna culture as well as the best intact historic city IMHO in Europe without the crowds. Even more memorable at Christmas time as the best uncrowded Christmas market we’ve been to. (birthplace of the Christmas tree as well as Riga, Latvia’s claim to fame). Thanks for your blog.

March 3, 2022 at 12:03 pm

I love Estonia! I’ve traveled around Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania several times, but before the kids were born. Would love to take them.

August 21, 2022 at 10:29 pm

Great list. Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Turkey are my favorites in Europe. Jordan and Israel were also fascinating.

Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico and Ecuador in the Americas.

Botswana, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya in Africa.

Australia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Palau and Japan in Asia/Oceania.

Still high on bucket list: New Zealand, Morocco, Egypt, Portugal, Croatia and Peru. So many places. So little time.

November 7, 2022 at 9:34 pm

“Sad that a beautiful country like INDIA is not in the list” . Especially when Taj Mahal is in seven wonders of world. Rajasthan mighty forts and rich culture. Gold beaches of Goa . Keralas back waters and greenery, Tibet and Kashmir mountains . Thousands of years old temples in Tamilnadu.

November 8, 2022 at 9:44 am

This is a very strange comment. Have you not looked through my website? Have you seen all of the India photos I’ve posted to Instagram? This specific post is based on family voting, and only one of my kids has been to India. But India, and Rajasthan in particular, is one of my favorite places in the world and I have said that many, many times.

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The Best Destinations for an Extended Trip in 2022

Still holding off on taking your next big vacation? Whether you have a backlog of PTO, a remote job, or just retired, here are the best places to spend your extra time in 2022.

For many of us, a long weekend or short vacation trip squeezed into a busy work schedule is a thing of the past. You may have retired from full-time work or discovered by way of COVID quarantine that you can work remotely and take your job wherever you go.

Still others are resisting the return to office after becoming accustomed to working at home. According to the Wall Street Journal , more U.S. workers are leaving their jobs than at any time in more than two decades. Some are seeking new positions that allow remote work beyond the pandemic while others are using their skills for independent work instead.

If you're someone whose life has become more flexible for any reason, you're probably thinking about places you've wanted to visit but may have postponed due to lack of time. Perhaps you'd like to get on the open road and explore the country or travel to a far away place. You'll want appealing surroundings and a variety of things to see and do in your free time. An extended trip is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture or learn a new language.

Here are some ideas to inspire you to pack up your laptop, sandals, hiking boots, and whatever you'll need in your home away from home.

Australia's borders may not open until next year , but the massive country is full of diverse landscapes and experiences that make it worth the wait — and worth staying a while. A trip " down under " is your chance to see kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies in their natural habitats. In South Australia , swim on Adelaide's beaches or taste the wines of Barossa and the Clare Valley. Explore the Flinders Ranges in the Outback, grab a ferry to Kangaroo Island, or relax on a houseboat on the Murray River.

Thrill to the scenery of Sydney with its iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and famous beaches. Feed kangaroos at one of several wildlife parks, and explore Australia's Aboriginal culture in the New South Wales Outback and Mutawintji National Park. Dive, snorkel, or cruise the Great Barrier Reef , visit Perth in Western Australia , and explore the Outback in the country's largest state. Don't miss cosmopolitan Brisbane , capital of Queensland, and a visit to nearby Lone Pine , the world's largest koala sanctuary.

Start with a week-long river cruise along the Rhine or Danube in Europe or, for an extended experience, combine several European river cruises. You can venture to Africa for 10 days of exploring the " Secrets of Egypt and the Nile " or 17 days in Africa's national parks, Victoria Falls, and Serengeti.

For an even longer getaway, world cruises can keep you on the sea for the better part of a year as long as your bank account can handle it. Regent Seven Seas , Seabourn , and other cruise companies offer a variety of itineraries. You can experience the Galapagos in a luxury yacht or on one of several adventures offered by Celebrity Cruises . If sailing among the islands of the South Pacific sounds dreamy, check out Paul Gauguin Cruises , Regent Seven Seas , and Cunard Line's 20-day cruise boarding in Sydney, Australia.

By the way, most cruise ships offer internet and Wi-Fi with varying prices, bandwidth, and speed, so if you're planning to be productive on your cruise, check that out first.

California's Highway 1 is one of the best known drives in the country, and rather than just cruising the road, you have time for leisurely stops along the way. Spend time in San Diego if you're starting on the southern end, enjoying downtown's restaurants and the coastal beaches. Orange County offers picturesque beach towns, Disneyland, and artsy Laguna Beach. You can spend a week in Los Angeles and not see all the city has to offer.

Drive up the Central Coast through wine country in Paso Robles , Santa Barbara , and Edna Valley , continuing on the Highway 1 Discovery Route . Spend a few days in the area's charming towns to get the real flavor of California's history and agricultural bounty. Big Sur , the Monterey Peninsula, redwoods, and the rugged northern coast will keep you fascinated for days. Make some time for inland detours too.

On the East Coast, starting around Jacksonville near Florida's border with Georgia, charming Amelia Island is just offshore. Head south from there on Scenic Highway A1A , a two-lane road lying between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway along beaches, nature trails, estuaries, and preserves. Spend some time in luxurious Ponte Vedra Beach and America's oldest city, St. Augustine. Continue south surrounded by the sea for spectacular views, delicious seafood, and a leisurely drive. Tour the Kennedy Space Center and perhaps take a detour to Orlando where you'll find theme parks and lots more. Take your time and stay on Highway 1 clear down to Key West where you'll want to kick back and enjoy sunset in the southernmost point of the U.S.

Singapore and Maldives

Halfway around the world and worth every minute of flight time, Singapore is one of the most exciting cities (it's a city, nation, and island) in the world. The airport alone is a wondrous destination with gardens, fountains, restaurants, shopping, and ever-changing attractions. From there, you'll find fascinating culture, delicious food at hawker markets, the stunning Gardens by the Bay , and lush Botanic Gardens . Be sure to sip a Singapore Sling at historic Raffles Hotel's Long Bar where the cocktail originated.

Republic of Maldives , an archipelago of more than a thousand tiny islands in the Indian Ocean southwest of India, offers an island lifestyle and clear turquoise seas. Upscale resorts are set on their own islands, but it's also possible to enjoy the islands on a budget by staying in one of the many guesthouses . You can truly experience the local culture, cuisine, and lifestyle in an informal setting. Snorkeling, diving, surfing, fishing, and boating among the islands are just a few things to do, and there's always time to work on your tan.

Looking for "pura vida?" You'll find it in Central America's Costa Rica where it's more than just a phrase — it's a lifestyle. The country's natural beauty, geographical variety, and biodiversity make it a perfect place to spend a long visit. Beach lovers can choose the Caribbean's clear waters, sandy beaches, and shorefront hiking trails or the Pacific's surfing, diving, snorkeling, and fishing on Golfo Dulce and the Osa Peninsula.

Explore Costa Rica's national parks, wildlife refuges, biological reserves, and protected areas for hiking, bird watching, and learning about the country's flora and fauna. Arenal Volcano National Park in the northwest and Ballena National Marine Park on the west coast are just two of the country's 29 national parks.

Stay in a luxury resort, a hillside retreat in the central valley, or an eco-lodge set in a jungle rainforest. Wherever you decide to make your temporary home in Costa Rica, you'll quickly understand the meaning of pura vida.

Trading Places

Well, not literally, but if you live in an urban environment, you might want to experience life in a small town. And, if your home is in a small town and you wonder what life is like in the big city, you can find out with an extended visit. Short vacations as a tourist don't quite provide a true picture of daily life.

America offers quaint towns from coast to coast and north to south, most with Airbnbs available for extended stays. Towns you may not have heard of like Greenville , South Carolina; Chatham, New York; and Shelbyville , Kentucky might surprise you with the richness of life there.

On the other hand, you've heard of most of the cities , but what is it like to really live in one? Pack up and experience the restaurants, museums, attractions, and lifestyle of the city. If this is beginning to sound like the fable of the town mouse and the country mouse , it's close, but you won't know how your story will turn out until you give it a try.

Related Articles

30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of)

Posted on Published: October 17, 2023  - Last updated: March 12, 2024

With spring patiently waiting to arrive, February is the perfect month for a vacation! Whether you’re planning a special Valentine’s Day getaway or looking to find some warm weather, February offers a plethora of options. Here are the best countries to visit in February!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to travel to in February is to say goodbye to the cold and hit the beach beach, or you’re aiming for snowy adventures like skiing and northern lights, this list has a little bit of everything. 

Some of these destinations are in the off season, so you’ll find amazing pricing, which makes it even more fun to travel there! From cities with cobblestone streets to white sandy beaches, you’ll find the best February destinations.

Including countries from all regions of the world, you’re gonna want to start the search for flights!  Let’s dive in!

Countries to visit in February map

From hiking to frozen waterfalls in Finland to taking a safari in Kenya, your February vacation options are truly endless. Use the map below to start planning!

Oh and by the way, I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but since I haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help create this list of the best places to vacation in February. Enjoy!

Before you book your trip, be sure to get travel insurance ! While I truly hope you have a fabulous time, you just never know what will happen before or on vacation, and travel insurance can protect your investment.

Best countries to visit in February

Who knew February was such a great time to travel?! This list proves that it just may be the best. With fewer crowds and diverse options it’s up to you to decide the best place to vacation in February for your travel style.

There are sooo many options….let’s go!

1. Seychelles

• Region:  Africa (island in the Indian Ocean)
• Fly into:  Seychelles International Airport (SEZ)
• Average temperature:  85F/76F. Approximately 11 days of rain.

One of the best countries to visit in February is the Seychelles. If you are coming from the Northern Hemisphere, you will likely have the winter blues at this point and the Seychelles offers a completely different world during the winter months!

Technically, the Seychelles experience their ‘rainy’ season throughout this time, however, it’s the tropics so you can expect a bit of rain throughout the year, anyway.

One perk of visiting the Seychelles in winter is that the seas are calmer despite the weather being wetter. This is especially important for those taking the ferry to La Digue or Praslin from Mahe (the summer ferries are known to make passengers seasick).

In February, you can find the Seychellois celebrating Carnival. They have BBQs (a Creole favorite!), picnics, and a lot of dancing on the islands. There is also the eco-friendly marathon taking place in February.

The off-season winter months also experience slightly cheaper prices – which is great for those traveling as the Seychelles is not a budget destination . Tours are also easier to book at the last minute.

One tour to avoid missing out on is the Saint-Anne Marine Park and Moyenne Island day trip. This is one of the  best things to do on Mahe  and is a must for any visitor.

If you plan to visit all three main islands (Mahe, La Digue, and Praslin), you should set aside at least 10 days to properly see all the islands. Otherwise, your trip can feel a bit rushed.

Recommended by Megan of Megan Starr

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• Region: Northern Europe
• Fly into: Rovaniemi Airport
• Average temp: 20°F to 29°F

Finland is one of the best vacation spots in February, especially in the Lapland region located in Northern Finland. This whole area is a complete winter wonderland, and you will be guaranteed tons of snow!

Firstly, you will want to base yourself in Rovaniemi, which is the capital of the Lapland region of Finland. It is located right on the Arctic Circle and you can here by train or plane. There are tons of nearby towns, all offering winter wonderland activities.

From winter hiking, frozen waterfalls, reindeer farms, huskies, Finnish Saunas, and ice fishing, there is something for everyone.

Additionally, one of the oldest known Nomadic festivals takes place during February. This is called the Jokkmokk market. It celebrates the traditions of the Sàmi people. During the festival, you’ll be taken back to the Middle Ages, where you can try traditional meals and explore the market stalls.

February is also an incredible time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland! There are plenty of guided tours you can book. By booking a tour, you’ll maximize your chances of seeing the lights as you will be guided by experts. 

Admittedly, the temperatures are definitely low during this time of the year. Just make sure to have extra layers and a big thick coat.

For a  unique place to stay in Rovaniemi, you can consider Apukka Resort, which is well known for its igloo huts! 

Recommended by Samantha of Find Love and Travel 

3. Turks and Caicos (a favorite on this list of best counties to visit in February)

• Region : Caribbean
• Fly into : Providenciales International Airport
• Average temp : 82°F high  / 74°F low

One of the absolute best countries to visit in February, Turks and Caicos is nestled in the vibrant Caribbean Sea. With vibrant turquoise water and white-sand beaches, this getaway is a much-needed reprieve from a cold winter.

With a scene that can’t be described in words or photos, the color of the water in Turks and Caicos is truly unbelievable. In fact, it reminds me of the time I visited Banff in summer and saw the water in Moraine Lake – truly jaw-dropping!

Turks and Caicos is a chain of islands, although most people fly into and stay on Providenciales, unless you’re taking a cruise you’ll likely go through Grand Turk.

There’s so many great things to do in Turks and Caicos, including eating delicious food, enjoying water activities and beach hopping! Grace Bay is the best beach in Turks and Caicos, and where most of the luxury hotels are located.

To experience more of the island, go kayaking at Chalk Sound National Park, take a snorkeling tour or try kiteboarding at Long Beach.

Whether you’re looking to relax or craving adventure, Turks and Caicos is the answer to your question, “where to go in February?”

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

• Region : North Africa
• Fly into : Cairo International Airport
• Average temp : 66 high, 59 low (in F)

Dating back to thousands of years of history,  Egypt  is an ancient and incredible country to visit . The country is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Natural Wonders of the World, including the Pyramids of Giza.

Cairo, the capital and the largest city of Egypt, has an international airport that connects with major cities around the world. There are also a few cruise lines that stop at Port Said in Cairo. Apart from the international airport in Cairo, there are other smaller airports around the city that you can fly to.

Other than the capital city, there are other ancient and significant cities such as Giza, Memphis, Saqqar, Luxor and Aswan . Throughout these cities you’ll find many historical monuments and are part of the UNESCO Heritage sites.

You need at least one to two weeks to explore and experience what Egypt has to offer. One of the best places to stay is Giza Pyramids View Inn where the rooms offer views of the pyramids.

The best and the peak season in Egypt is during the winter season and February falls in the winter season. Offering pleasant weather when compared to the rest of the month s, Egypt is one of the best countries to visit in February.

During the month, the average temperature ranges between 59 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal to explore the iconic monuments, cruise the Nile River, and scuba dive into the underwater world of the Red Sea. In fact, Egypt also celebrates Abu Simbel Sun Festival in the month of February.

Recommended by Raksha of Solo Passport

• Region: Southeast Asia
• Fly into : Wattay International Airport, Vientiane
• Average temperature: 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit but it can get much colder in the northern province of Phongsali

February is one of the best months to delve into Laos’ culture and natural wonders. While definitely on the banana pancake trail, Laos sees fewer visitors than Thailand or Vietnam and is a haven for those seeking a more tranquil escape in Southeast Asia.

February is one of the best times to visit as the rain bids its adieu and the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold which makes it excellent for outdoor activities.

In addition to the plethora of activities in February, you will love the country for its gorgeous natural scenery, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine . Places not to miss in Laos are definitely the city of Luang Prabang for its proximity to the  Kuang Si Falls  and Vang Vieng for its beautiful rock formations.

Make sure to leave time to explore lesser-known destinations like the towns of Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi.

Furthermore, the Mighty Mekong flows right through Laos. Y ou can enjoy boat trips on this amazing river but also taste local delicacies out of the river like fried Mekong seaweed crackers with chili peppers and garlic.

From Wattay Airport, you can easily reach the center of the capital Vientiane . Busses and trains leave from the capital to every corner of the country.

I would recommend staying for at least four weeks to really immerse yourself in the Lao ambiance and to have enough time to slow travel the country.

A great stay that is high on many travelers’ bucket lists is the Gibbon Experience . Here, you’ll sleep in treehouses high in the canopy of lush forest in the north of Laos.

It’s no secret why Laos is one of the best places to visit in February.

Recommended by Annelies of Travelers & Dreamers

6. Norway (Where to go in February for adventure-lovers!)

• Fly into: Tromsø Airport
• Average temp: 30° F high, 22° F low 

Norway, and especially the northern portion above the Arctic Circle, is the perfect destination for an adventurous vacation in February. It’s the perfect place to see the northern lights and try other activities like riding a snowmobile or going ice fishing. 

Plan to visit northern Norway for at least 6 days. A longer trip will give you more chances to see the northern lights and will give you time to visit smaller areas like Narvik and Senja.

Unless you’re visiting other countries in northern Europe, plan to start and end your trip in Tromsø, where you’ll find the biggest airport in the region. 

There are weeks during the winter in Norway when Tromsø and other areas see 0 minutes of sunlight each day. By February, the days are starting to get longer and the locals are more friendly . It feels as though the entire region is starting to come back to life as the sun starts to shine longer and longer each day. 

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon , so there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll see them during your visit. You can increase your chances by visiting for several days and visiting areas away from sources of light pollution. 

For a unique and unforgettable experience, you can stay in an arctic dome in northern Norway. If you’re lucky, you might even see the northern lights from your warm bed inside the dome. 

It’s easy to see why Norway makes it on this list of the best places to travel in February!

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

• Region : East Africa
• Fly into: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
• Average temp: 82°F high, 72°F low

Kenya is one of the best countries to travel to in February. The climate is mild and mostly dry, which is perfect for safari, and the chances of wildlife spotting – including baby animals and a wide variety of birds – is fantastic. February is also a great time of year for hiking and climbing.

You can do a lot during a  12-day action-packed safari trip to Kenya , especially if you use a tour provider like  Sense of Africa .

Most tours begin and end in Nairobi , where you can visit the Giraffe Centre, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Karen Blixen Museum, and more. 

From here, you can tailor your tour to visit (and stay at) various game parks. Some favorites are Samburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Don’t forget to save time to hike at Mount Kenya National Park, home to Africa’s second highest peak.

One of the highlights of any trip to Kenya is the Maasai Mara , which shares the same ecosystem as Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. It is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world.

The Mara is home to an abundance of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and cheetahs, as well as the elusive leopard and endangered black rhino . Be sure to pack your binoculars!

Here, you can also do a Maasai village tour. On the tour, you’ll practice your high jumps, chant with members of the Maasai tribe, go inside a typical Maasai home, and learn about the Maasai culture.

You can also opt to take a hot air balloon ride over the Mara or have breakfast on a riverbank, while watching hippos and crocodiles swim in the Mara River.

Note that a travel visa is required to enter the country, and the Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended.

Recommended by Sara from Travel A-Broads

Best places to visit in February continued…

We’re just getting started! Here are more of the best countries to visit in February – including a few of my favorites!

8. French Polynesia (where to travel in February for warmth!)

• Region : Oceania
• Fly into: Papeete International Airport 
• Average temp: 85 high, 75 low

February is the perfect time to visit French Polynesia if you’re looking for an escape from the cold winter weather. During this month, visitors can expect temperatures to range from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great time to soak up the sun on one of the many perfect beaches.

During the stay, consider exploring Tahiti’s waterfalls before hiking Moorea’s lush trails . You can reach the trails by taking a  ferry from Tahiti to Moorea .  

Then. explore the underwater wonders of Bora Bora or the tranquil lagoons of Rangiroa. Both of which feature crystal clear water and a truly unforgettable experience.

Visitors won’t have to worry about crowds either, since February is considered low season.  This is the perfect time to find deals on airfare and accommodations.

The sights will be less crowded and the beaches may feel empty.  For travelers ready to splurge, check out the Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora for excellent service and stunning views.

To get to French Polynesia, most travelers fly into Papeete before flying or boating off to the other islands.

If possible, visit this beautiful country for at least a week to experience all that French Polynesia has to offer.

Travelers should note that in the touristy areas, English is common. However, keep in mind that English may not be widely spoken in off the beaten path areas, so brushing up on some basic French phrases is a good idea.

As you can see, French Polynesia is one of the best places to go in February for an unforgettable getaway!

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth

9. Guatemala (an underrated destination on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Region : Central America
• Fly into : Guatemala City – La Aurora International Airport (GUA)
• Average temp : 78°F high  / 56°F low

Guatemala is known as “the land of eternal spring,” with much of the country enjoying pleasant, mild days year-round. However, February may just be the best time to visit, boasting warm, sunny weather in the middle of the dry season.

The nearly perfect weather makes it an ideal time to tackle a hike up one of the volcanoes that the country is known for.

The most famous of these is the trek up Volcan Acatenango, which allows for a unique experience to witness Volcan Fuego . It’s one of the most active volcanoes in all of Central America.

If you prefer less adventurous activities, there’s plenty more that Guatemala has to offer. Spending a few days in Antigua is a must to explore its colonial gems. The city was destroyed by a giant earthquake in 1773 and rebuilt, and its attractions offer a look into its history and resiliency.

After spending some time in Antigua, it’s highly recommended that you head over to Lake Atitlan. There are about a dozen Mayan villages that surround the lake, each offering a different vibe and feel.

You will gain a fascinating look into traditional Mayan culture – and the views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes are unreal.

If you have more time, head over to the ruins of Tikal . These ruins are one of the most important ancient cities of pre-Columbian Mayan civilization.

Another attraction worth visiting is Semuc Champey, a natural monument consisting of a series of cascading turquoise pools nestled in the lush jungle.

No matter how you decide to spend your time in Guatemala, it’ll surely prove to be one of the best February destinations.

Recommended by Caroline of Pictures and Words

10. Maldives (a top choice for the best places to travel in February)

• Fly into: Velana International Airport (MLE)
• Average temperature: between 85°F and 89°F

Are you looking for where to go in February? Add the Maldives to the list! This place is what your screensaver image was showing at least once in your lifetime, and you have probably wondered “Is this place even real?”.

No matter if you decide to have a more active vacation and invest  10 to 14 days in The Maldives , or if you just plan to lay on a beach for at least a week, February is the best time to visit this awesome tropical paradise.

While The Maldives is known as a go-to destination for couples on their honeymoon, I can tell you that you can enjoy it no matter what you are celebrating.

If visiting in February though, and you don’t want to see way too many couples on your trip, avoid Valentine’s Day. Even better, come right after, so you get to enjoy the smaller prices and the absolutely amazing weather.

The highlight of the trip? The absolutely mind-blowing underwater world, for sure! There are few other places in the world with such a diverse underwater landscape.

Be prepared to encounter not only a lot of colorful fish and delicate anemones, but also huge turtles, gorgeous manta rays, and amazing sharks. No matter if you’re a professional diver or you have just bought your snorkeling gear, please learn about the various animals you may encounter.

It’s also important to educate yourself of the potential dangers of the place. It’s your responsibility to protect yourself and the environment.

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

• Region: Caribbean
• Fly into: Havana or Santiago de Cuba
• Average temp: 78F

If you are looking for sunny and warm destinations in February, Cuba is the perfect place for you. It’s one of the best hot destinations in February to visit!

Located in the Caribbean, Cuba is famous for many things including classic cars, stunning beaches, cigars, rum and more.

February is one of the best months to visit Cuba . It’s the dry season (no risk of hurricane) and the temperatures are lovely. You can expect an average of 78°F (25°C).

This means that you can enjoy all the best activities in Cuba from the beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving to hiking and sightseeing in cities.

The best way to get there is by plane. There are two main airports, one in Havana and one in Santiago de Cuba but if you opt for a package holiday, you may fly to a smaller one.

Ideally, you’ll need two weeks to explore Cuba. This will give you the opportunity to discover various landscapes and places such as Havana, Vinales, Varadero, Santa Clara, Trinidad and more.

There are a lot of activities that are worth doing but here are some of the highlights. Viñales is by far a must-visit in Cuba. It’s home to loads of tobacco plantations and is perfect for people who want to discover how cigars are made.

Varadero on the other hand is perfect for beach lovers. Here you will discover beautiful beaches with white sand and crystal clear water. It’s a paradise on Earth!

Recommended by Pauline of Beeloved City

12. Netherlands

• Region : Northern Europe
• Fly into: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Average temp: 46°F high, 32°F low

The  Netherlands  offers a unique getaway experience. It easily makes this list of the best countries to visit in February. You can expect chilly but manageable weather with occasional rain, so packing layers and a waterproof jacket is key .

While the winter climate may be crisp, the atmosphere is anything but dull due to the Carnival celebrations. The festivities are particularly prominent in the southern regions like Limburg and North Brabant , with colorful parades and fantastical costumes.

Getting to the Netherlands is straightforward. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as a major hub for numerous international flights. Once in the country, the highly efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses, makes navigating to different regions easy and convenient.

A week-long trip would allow you to enjoy the Dutch Carnival while also exploring the highlights of the country.

Amsterdam, with its famous canals and museums, and Utrecht, known for its medieval architecture, should be on your list. Rotterdam is another cool option with great architecture and a fun vibe – don’t miss Kinderdijk with its iconic windmills just outside Rotterdam.

If you are staying in Amsterdam, then check out the “Mr. Jordaan” hotel. Its central location offers easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Despite the festivities, February is not peak tourist season, allowing visitors to explore with fewer crowds . However, hotels in towns hosting Carnival festivities might book up quickly. It’s always best to reserve in advance.

Recommended by Jo of World Wild Schooling

13. Indonesia (a bucket list country to visit in February!)

• Fly into: Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali
• Average temp: 75 to 88 degrees

Indonesia is a perfect destination in February if you’re looking to experience the archipelago without the high-season crowds. 

It is technically a rainy season, but places like Bali, even in rainy times, are great. With showers often occurring mostly at nights, it leaves the days sun-kissed.

Meanwhile, destinations like Raja Ampat boast their best weather, offering crystal-clear visibility for snorkelling and diving.

Direct international flights cater to major hubs like Jakarta and Denpasar . If you’re coming from Europe or the Americas, you might have a layover at popular transit points such as Singapore’s Changi Airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, or even Dubai International Airport.

For a first-time visit to Indonesia, which boasts over 17,000 islands, a 2-week stay is recommended. A typical itinerary might include a few of the best areas in Bali , such as Ubud, Seminyak and Uluwatu.

Be sure to save time for a visit to Java to see the magnificent Borobudur Temple and to climb Mount Bromo. If you have more time, take a trip to Flores for komodo dragons or Sumatra to see the orangutans in their natural habitat.

As for the festivals, February is the time of Chinese New Year,  locally known as “Imlek.” This festival ushers in vibrant street performances, colourful parades, and intricate lantern displays, especially in cities with significant Chinese-Indonesian populations like Jakarta or Surabaya.

Recommended by Mal of Where To Stay Bali

14. Australia

• Region: Oceania
• Fly into: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
• Average temp: 65-78°F in Sydney; 70-85°F in Brisbane; and 57-77°F in Melbourne.

Australia is, without a doubt, one of the best countries to visit in February.

You’ll be heading Down Under during the country’s summer months, so the weather will be at its best in the most popular areas for tourists. Despite this, the crowds (and prices) will be starting to lower as local children head back to school and international arrivals decrease. 

Given the size of the country (roughly the same area as the continental U.S.!), and the lengthy flight (and subsequent jetlag) to get there, Australia is not country in which to spend a mere few days. Two weeks should be the absolute minimum amount of time you allocate , but if you can stretch it out to a month, you’ll be greatly rewarded.

Sydney is a particularly great spot in February, which is convenient, as most international flights will arrive there. The city’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrations kick off in the middle of a month and last for a whopping 17 days . It’s one of the largest Pride events in the world and you can expect parties, film festivals, parades, art shows, and more.

Down in Melbourne, February provides the perfect climate for driving the Great Ocean Road . This iconic coastal road starts from just outside of the city and is regularly named one of the most scenic in the world.

On the drive, you’ll pass beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and and rugged cliffs, all the way to the impressive 12 Apostles.

Recommended by Lauren of Everything Victoria

15. Jordan (a fun one on this list of best countries to travel to in February)

• Region : Jordan, Middle East
• Fly into : Queen Alia International Airport in Amman or King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba
• Average temp : 80°F high, 50°F low

Visiting Jordan in February is a fantastic idea for those looking for a unique Middle Eastern adventure. You can avoid the tourist crowds that flock to Jordan during the high season.

The weather may be a bit chilly in the mornings, but it’s much more comfortable for outdoor activities than the unbearably hot summer months.

Dress in layers, bring sunscreen and a hat. Be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly. Wear a bikini only on the private beaches of your hotel.

The best way to explore the country is to rent a car . A  5-day itinerary to visit the highlights  is recommended to immerse yourself in Jordan’s rich history and natural beauty.

The iconic city of Petra and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum are must-sees . The cooler weather makes exploring these ancient wonders much more enjoyable.

The capital Amman, the ancient city of Jerash and the Dead Sea, where you can float on the water, are also worth a visit. The Red Sea near Aqaba offers great diving.

Don’t forget to try the Jordanian cuisine, especially the delicious falafel. Enjoying the local food and wine is one of the best Jordan travel tips .

Jordan in February promises an unforgettable, crowd-free adventure among the country’s incredible landscapes and historical treasures.

Recommended by Maria of Map and Camera

Best places to vacation in February

Are you a fan of chilly adventures? Or do you prefer relaxing on a warm sunny beach? This vacations for February list has something for everyone. From low crowds to affordable deals, February is THE time to travel! Here are more of the best places to go in February!

• Region: North America
• Fly into: varies based on state; Lihue, Kona, Honolulu or Kahului in Hawaii
• Average temp: 79°F high, 68°F low on average for Hawaii (remainder of US varies based on region)

If you’re reading this list of the best countries to travel to in February and are not from the US, then a trip to the states may be perfect for you! While the US is vast and experiences will vary greatly from state to state and within each region, I highly recommend a trip to Hawaii in February!

The weather is amazing during this time of year and the water is warm enough for swimming. Each island in Hawaii has its own appea l. And if you’ve never been, take this Hawaiian island quiz to help you determine which island is best for you.

Taking a trip to the Big Island to see the active volcano is deserving of any bucket list. Soak in the bustling city of Honolulu and the history of Pearl Harbor in Oahu. 

Be at one with nature in Kauai, soaking in amazing hiking views and the stunning NaPali Coast. Maui is home to the incredible adventures along the Road to Hana and Kahekili Highwy.

You really can’t go wrong with visiting any of the Hawaiian islands, especially during the winter!

• Region: Southern Europe
• Fly into: Malta International Airport (MIA)
• Average temp : 50-61 degrees

If you are looking for one of the best destinations in February with culture, fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and striking coastlines, then you will love the tiny Mediterranean island of Malta. 

By visiting in February, you will get mild temperatures ranging from 16℃ (61℉) to 10℃ (50℉) and lower lodging prices, given you will be there outside of the summer high season.

To get there, fly into the Malta International Airport. Then, if you have a few days, base yourself in nearby Valletta, the historic and peninsular capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Choose lodging on a pedestrian street, like Merchants Street, at a hotel like Rosselli – AX Privilege , or a street over, at Ursulino Valletta, with its gorgeous rooftop breakfast deck. This is a great guide if you need more ideas on where to stay in Malta .

While in Valletta, wander the streets and visit the Upper Barakka Gardens. Join a city tour to learn about its rich history. Or go on a photo tour highlighting the best views, prettiest doorways, and backdrops in a place improbably overflowing with aesthetic impressiveness. 

Then, take a day or two to get out of the city. Use the affordable Malta bus Explore pass or join a tour to visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

If you have the time, be sure to explore the ancient fortress city of Mdina, or wander the grounds of the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra overlooking the sea. 

Then, take the ferry to Gozo, Malta’s second-largest inhabitable island. Spend a few days visiting villages, walking stunning coastlines, and catching breathtaking sunset views from the Gozo Cittadella ramparts using  an itinerary like this one  to guide you.

Recommended by Janice of Gather and Go Travel

18. Argentina (another amazing destination on this list of best places to visit in February)

• Region: South America
• Fly into: Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport
• Average temp: 77° F high, 67°F  low – but these are rough estimates: the country is very vast and some regions such as Patagonia or Tierra del Fuego can be much colder.

Argentina is by far the best country to visit in February in South America. This is the peak of the summer season; which means more tourists and peak tourist season fares. On the other hand, February is the best month to visit Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Your trip will inevitably start in the capital Buenos Aires, known as the Paris of South America. Check out the Casa Rosata, explore the  historic San Telmo , where you can see impromptu tango shows, and La Boca districts and enjoy  the nightlife of Palermo.

If you love nature and hiking, you’ll have to head to Patagonia: catch a flight to Trelew and head to Puerto Madryn to admire the incredible wildlife – summer is the best time to see penguins.

From there, it’s another flight to Ushuaia, the main town in Tierra del Fuego and a perfect base to explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park. One of the best hikes in the region is Laguna Esmeralda.

El Calafate, also in Patagonia, is the best base to explore Perito Moreno and reach El Chalten, the hiking capital of Argentina. It’s here you’ll find the trails to the Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres (or Mount Fitzroy). 

If your interest is wine, then a trip to Mendoza and then to Salta is a must . Not far from Salta, the quebradas offer plenty of hiking opportunities, excellent wineries and a unique atmosphere here.

Also north of Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls are on the border with Brazil. Spend at least 2 nights to visit both the Argentine side and the Brazilian side for a full experience.

One of the best tips for those visiting Argentina for the first time is to focus on just one area.  The country is massive, and it will take you multiple trips to visit it. Focus your trip on one region and try to explore locally as much as you can.

Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

• Region:  Caribbean
• Fly Into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport
• Average Temp:  86F High, 77F Low

The island of Aruba is one of the best vacation spots in February for a beach getaway.

Aruba is home to beautiful white sand beaches, incredible snorkeling and diving , but the island offers much more than your typical beach getaway. 

Popular activities include sunset cruises, catamaran trips and dinner boat tours. Once you’ve soaked up enough sun on Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, you can try some windsurfing, parasailing or explore other parts of the island.

Arikok National Park cannot be missed . You can explore by taking a jeep tour or renting your own 4×4 to adventure across the wild landscape and limestone cliffs. One of the highlights is the Natural Pool – a small pool protected by the wild waves of the sea.

It’s easy to fly into Queen Beatrix International and take the many  airport transportation options . However, having a car opens up a new world of exploration for the adventurous and independent travelers. 

You can visit Aruba year-round as it sits outside the hurricane belt. F ebruary is also one of the dryer months with rain more likely in October to January . This makes February a popular month to visit, however it is never going to seem as crowded as many of the other islands.

Visit at the beginning of the month and you’ll catch the famous Aruba Carnival . You’ll find exciting events every day until the middle of February!

You’ll need 7 days minimum to enjoy Aruba but that would depend on your beach time. If  want to enjoy the many other activities as well as the world-class beaches then more days are recommended!

Recommended by Jeff of Life of Y

20. Thailand (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Region:  Southeast Asia
• Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport
• Average temp:  80F high, 70F low

Thailand is undeniably one of the best countries to visit in February. The country offers diverse landscapes, from lush jungles and pristine beaches to bustling cities. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, you’ll find it here.

The weather is spectacular, with clear skies and more bearable temperatures than other months. February is also the last cool month in Thailand.

One of the most magical events in February is the  Chiang Mai Flower Festival . The streets are transformed into a floral paradise . It’s a vibrant three-day celebration full of parades, garden displays, and traditional dancing.

The best part? Thailand is relatively quieter during February.

To get there, fly into Bangkok. Then, explore the country via domestic flights, trains, or even motorbikes. Bangkok’s bustling markets, historic temples, and vibrant street food are a must-see before you travel to other islands.

For a quieter experience, visit Chiang Rai’s White Temple or explore Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins. Enjoy the turquoise waters of Krabi or relax on the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui.

A two to three-week trip is perfect for getting a taste of Thailand. Consider booking boutique hotels for a more authentic experience, and don’t forget to savor local food at their street markets! It’s one of the best things to do in Thailand!

As you travel to Thailand, pack modest clothes for your temple visits. If you plan to stay longer, arrive earlier rather than later because from March to May, the pollution from their burning season tends to be quite intense.

Recommended by Gladis of Happiness on the Way

• Fly into: Jerez Airport (XRY) or Seville Airport (SVQ)
• Average temp: 63 °F high, 52 °F low

Tucked away in the southwest corner of Spain, Cádiz is a great place to visit in February, thanks to the Cádiz Festival. While the rest of Andalusia slumbers in its winter lull, Cádiz comes alive and reveals its most flamboyant side during the second month of the year.

Travelers and locals flock to the Carnaval de Cádiz for its chirpy atmosphere. Expect vibrant parades and costumes as the streets come alive with the sounds of music. It’s one of Spain’s biggest carnivals, known for its clever and satirical performances known as “chirigotas.”

While you’re in this breezy city, it’s the perfect occasion to try some classic Andalusian dishes like  pescaíto frito  (fried fish) and the ever-popular churros.

While the rest of Europe shivers, Cádiz enjoys a mild and pleasant climate in February. Although it’s far from its summer peak temperatures, it’s an ideal destination to escape winter’s cold.

The city appeals to a diverse crowd, from locals to tourists seeking an authentic Spanish experience. Getting  from Seville to Cadiz   is a breeze – it’s just a 1.5-hour train ride away. You can also easily reach it from popular destinations like Malaga or Tarifa.

Besides the festival, Cádiz’s main attraction is its beautiful old town, sitting gracefully in the middle of the bay of Cádiz. Whether you’re visiting its iconic white cathedral, medieval fortress, or the Mercado Central, you’re always just a few steps away from the sea.

Even though the festival lasts for 11 days, it’s a good idea to plan to stay in Cádiz for at least 2 days to fully enjoy its beauty. Afterward, you can keep exploring the many great things to see in Andalusia during its quieter, less busy season.

Even if you don’t plan to stay for the entire 11-day festival, it’s a good idea to spend at least 2 days in Cádiz to enjoy its beauty. Afterward, you can keep exploring the many great things to see in Andalusia in the intimacy of its low season.

Recommended by Iphi of Travel Choreography

22. Curacao (a top choice for the best country to visit in February)

• Region:  Caribbean
• Fly into:  Hato Airport
• Average temp:  86°F high, 76°F low

Considering a break from winter chills? Curaçao is the perfect place to go in February. With its warm temperatures and sunny weather, it’s easy to see why many choose this Caribbean island.

A big draw in February is the Curaçao Carnival. Streets come alive with music, dancing, and colorful parades.

Locals and tourists enjoy this animated fest, combining traditional beats with modern tunes. It’s not just a party; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, celebrating Curaçao’s unique culture.

But it’s not all about dancing. If you enjoy being active, you might want to  hike in Curaçao . The island offers a mix of gentle seaside paths and more demanding mountain trails. Walking, you’ll spot local plants, birds, and some wildlife.

Thinking of staying for a week? The Baoase Luxury Resort is a top pick . It’s the best option for luxury accommodation in Curaçao, and you will have a treat like nowhere else on the island. However, due to the popularity of the Carnival, it’s important to rserve your stay well in advance.

During your vacation, language won’t be a barrier. Most people in Curacao Island speak Dutch, Papiamentu, and English. You can also use the US dollar for most things which makes shopping and dining out hassle-free!

So, if warm days, lively parties, and natural beauty sound good, Curaçao in February should be on your list!

Recommended by Odo of Caribe Vibes

23. Switzerland

• Region:  Central Europe
• Fly into:  Zurich or Geneva
• Average temp:  28-45 F

The Swiss Alps may just be the dreamiest places to visit in February and Switzerland is truly a winter wonderland.

Geneva and Zurich are both accessible airports from most cities in Europe and getting around the county is simple with the fantastic train system.

Switzerland lies at the crossroads of several major European cultures, German, French and Italian. This will provide you with incredible architecture and diversity from the wonderful cities to the small towns.

Pick a few towns that you catch your eye and map out your itinerary – spend a week in Zermatt or enjoy a  three-night train trip  through the country with a new stop each day.

Zermatt is a “must do” when it comes to planning your trip. The famous Matterhorn sits in view of the town and provides phenomenal views.

This town is home to well known ski areas with the Matterhorn in the background and bustling streets. For an incredible hot tub view of the mountain, make sure you consider the beautiful BEAUSiTE Zermatt Hotel for your stay. 

Looking for something quieter and more relaxing? Consider the upscale and luxurious Gstaad . More luxury stores than souvenir shops, this town is a wonderful place to step out of reality.

Make sure to take the gondola up into the mountains and get a table at Bergrestaurant Eggli. Enjoy some cheese fondue and drink wine while appreciating the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

From gorgeous cities to charming chalet lined towns, its hard to go wrong on a getaway to Switzerland.

Recommended by Monica of Maxed Out PTO

Where to go in February continued…

Anyone else looking forward to escaping the cold with these best places to visit in February? Or maybe you are looking to bundle up and avoid the crowds in a chilly country. Whatever you choose, the world awaits!

• Region:  South America
• Fly into:  São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
• Average temp:  72 to 88 degrees F

When it comes to hot weather destinations in winter, one of the best countries to visit in February is Brazil.

Not only is February the height of summer, but it’s also when Brazil’s famous Carnival takes place. Therefore, it’s the best time to experience the country’s festivities, music, dance, and food.

Rio de Janeiro boasts the most iconic Carnival celebrations , but the whole country lights up with street parties, parades, and live concerts. So, no matter where you are, you’ll get a fantastic taste of Brazilian culture during this time.

February is an excellent time to soak up the sun and enjoy Brazil’s 2,000+ pristine beaches. And, although February is the busy season, the warm weather makes it an ideal time for sightseeing.

If you’re in Rio, make sure to visit Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and the iconic Copacabana boardwalk, which is most lively at this time of year.

February is also a great time to visit one of the country’s most famous natural wonders, Iguassu Falls. This is the world’s biggest network of waterfalls and is particularly impressive in February, as the water levels are at the highest.

For a truly memorable experience, you can even  see the falls from above  by taking a helicopter tour, or get wet on a speedboat ride down the Iguassu River!

The best way to get to Brazil is by flying to Sao Paolo or Rio de Janeiro, as there are direct flights from many North American and European cities. Once in Brazil, travel is relatively cheap and easy with the option of taking domestic flights or overnight buses.

Because there’s so much to see in Brazil, you really should allow yourself at least 10 days to explore as much as possible.

Recommended by Chanelle of Chasing Chanelle

25. St. Lucia (another top choice for places to go in February)

• Fly Into:  Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) or George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU)
• Average Temp:  83 degrees high / 72 degrees low

St. Lucia is a gorgeous island in the Eastern Caribbean Sea. It is an idyllic destination for a February getaway! Its appeal lies not only in its tropical climate but also in the vibrant atmosphere created by local festivals and events. You will have so much fun getting to know this island.

In February, the island hosts the St. Lucia Jazz Festival, attracting music enthusiasts from around the world. The event showcases a mix of local and international artists.

Additionally, you can enjoy music in the street every Friday of the year at the lively Gros Islet Street Party, located along the northern shore of the island.

February is a great time to visit St. Lucia as crowds are low. Peak tourist season picks up in March. Travelers can enjoy the serene beaches and explore attractions without crowds. Visiting the iconic Pitons, the famous volcanic peaks you’ll see in all the guidebooks, is a must.

Most visitors will stay on the West Side of the island near Soufrière or the north side closer to Rodney Bay. The west side is known as honeymooners paradise. The north side is known for lively culture and more affordable accommodations.

Cruise lines like  Virgin Voyages  pull into Castries port on the northern side of the island. Though cruises don’t stay in St. Lucia for long, they can be the most economical way to see the highlights of this fabulous island.

Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, St. Lucia easily fits on this list of the best country to visit in February!

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

26. Germany

• Region: Central Europe
• Fly into: Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC)
• Average temp: 42°F high, 27°F low

Wondering where to visit in the chilly month of February? Pack your winter woolies for a trip to the ever-charming capital of Bavaria, Munich.

Munich is easily reached by domestic or international flight. Book yourself at least two days for enjoying Bavarian beer hall culture and stunning Old-World buildings.

If fairytale town halls and toasty taverns weren’t enough to entice you, Munich has one of its most beloved traditions in late February – the vibrant Fasching Carnival.

Dating from the 1400’s, there’s special dance routines and a colorful parade of “silly” knights and nimble jesters that journey through the historical center right to the famous Hofbräuhaus. It’s also the perfect excuse to stop in for a stein of golden beer and a hearty schnitzel after the show is done.

The festivities run throughout the month of February; with joyful celebrations reaching their peak from the 19th – 21st . You’ll find the main stages set up at beautiful Marienplatz and the grand Stachus/Karlsplatz, with local performances running all day.

When you’re done enjoying the festival, Munich has so much more to see and do. Try out this carefully curated, self-guided walking tour of Munich – designed to show you around many of the city’s delightful attractions.

Don’t forget your warm winter jacket and comfy walking shoes so you’ll be ready to enjoy Munich without the crowds. Germany is by far one of the best countries to travel to in February!

Recommended by Jenelle of Happy Little Rover

• Fly into: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport
• Average temp: 57°F high, 38°F low (Rome)

Italy is the best place for a vacation in February if you’re keen on saving money and avoiding crowds.  Aside from skiing areas in Northern Italy , February is in the ‘low season’ in much of the rest of the country so you can score some amazing deals.

You’ll want to stay at least a week – preferably two – to see the most popular Italian cities.  The largest airport in Italy is just outside Rome, so this is the best place to begin your trip. 

Start off your stay in the Eternal City with a  golf cart tour of Rome . This is the best way to see the top sights – from the Colosseum to Trevi Fountain and Rome’s famous piazzas – without wearing yourself out on the first day of your vacation. 

The lower crowds in Italy in February means you’ll have a much easier time getting tickets to top attractions such as the Vatican, or world-class museums like the Uffizi in Florence.

February is of course the season of Carnevale. It’s celebrated all over Italy, but if you want to be a part of a truly amazing Carnevale, head to Venice. Experience the excitement of parades and masquerade balls along with the romance of taking a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. 

And if you’re in Catania, Sicily , don’t miss La Festa di Sant’Agata, which honors the city’s patron saint. This grand festival centers on one of the largest religious processions in the world!

Recommended by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

28. Mexico (convenient destination on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Fly into: Cancun International Airport
• Average temp: 83°F high, 66°F low 

Mexico is an amazing destination for a winter trip if you are looking to escape colder climates. Both air and water temperatures are warm in February, which leaves you with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. 

Most tourists come for the beautiful beaches, refreshing cenotes, and ancient Mayan Ruins. Rainforests of Yucatan are also perfect for wildlife viewing . You would need at least a week to explore everything this region of Mexico has to offer. 

Fly into Cancun as it has the best tourist infrastructure on the peninsula. You have more options for hotels, car rentals, and restaurants than anywhere else in the region. You can choose to take guided tours from Cancun or explore the nearby attractions on your own in a rental car.

The Mayan architecture is the highlight of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Start by visiting Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arrive as early as possible to enjoy the world famous pyramid with fewer tourists. You can visit a few other archaeological sites nearby, like Uxmal and Tulum.

If you prefer to extend your trip by a few days, it is worth venturing out deeper into the country. You could choose to see Palenque or Calakmul ruins. Hidden in the rainforest, these mysterious ruins attract less people. They are the most remarkable of all Yucatan sites and worth a longer drive.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, the beautiful country of Mexico will be one of the most memorable places to travel to in February.

Recommended by Anastasia of Travel Realist

29. Malaysia

• Fly into:  Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
• Average temp:  86°F high, 72°F low

Malaysia is a one of the February best holiday destinations. Malaysia offers a lot of different experiences amidst pleasant weather conditions.

Winter – from December to February – is the best time to visit the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur.

The world’s highest twin towers, the Petronas Twin Towers, are a must-visit attraction in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, offering breathtaking views of the capital’s skyline.

To experience Malaysia, combine Kuala Lumpur with other west coast destinations. The charming George Town, on the island of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can wander through historic streets and indulge in as much street food as you can handle.

Then continue your journey to Langkawi, a tropical paradise where white sandy beaches and lush jungles – including different species of wild monkeys are waiting for you.

If possible, consider staying at least two weeks to combine Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi. However, if you have more time, add the UNESCO World Heritage town Malacca to your itinerary and include  day trips from Kuala Lumpur , too.

You can hike the famous mountain of Gunung Jasar in the Cameron Highlights, hike through one of the oldest rainforests in the world, Taman Negara, and visit the town of Ipoh, where you’ll find one of Malaysia’s biggest cave temples.

Malaysia’s cultural calendar is another reason to visit in February . Both Chinese New Year and Thaipusam are celebrated in this month.

The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is well-connected to most major cities in and beyond SouthEast Asia. Low-cost carrier AirAsia makes domestic travel between Kuala Lumpur and other destinations easy (and cheap).

Malaysia is one of the best countries to visit in February – it’s just a bonus that it’s also affordable!

Recommended by Marlieke of Kuala Lumpur with Kids

30. New Zealand

• Fly into: Auckland International Airport
• Average temp: 75°F high, 60°F low

New Zealand in February is perfect for those seeking an idyllic summer escape. During the last month of Kiwi summer, you’ll find warm and pleasant weather perfect for exploring they country’s beautiful national parks.

While February is still a popular month with visitors, the major summer holiday season has ended and local school holidays are over, so it’s easy to find some secluded spots to relax. 

Spend your time relaxing at the beach, enjoying the long daylight hours, and trying out a variety of outdoor activities. New Zealand is one of the absolute best places to go in February!

Explore geothermal wonders in Rotorua, spend some time enjoying the white, sandy beaches on the east coast, and go  bungy jumping in Queenstown .

Head up north to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on 6 February to mark the signing of New Zealand’s founding document with ceremonies, cultural performances and food.

Other festivals taking place in February include Napier’s Art Deco Festival, Splore, a festival of art and music, the New Zealand Festival of the Arts and the Wellington Wine and Food Festival. 

A popular way to see the country is by campervan. It’s a relatively affordable way to see New Zealand’s stunning landscapes up close – just check the camping restrictions before you go or stay in holiday park or campsite.

Recommended by Roxanne of Love Queenstown

Wow! What a list. With so many fun festivals and a diverse range of activities, the options for a February vacation are truly endless! Where will you head this February?

Here’s a quick recap of the best countries to visit in February, in a much quicker fashion!

Absolute best places to travel in February

• Turks and Caicos
• French Polynesia
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• New Zealand

Related content you might like: 34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure) 34 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold)

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Sylvia E. Lester

Sunday 28th of January 2024

Your blog has become my daily dose of positivity and inspiration It's a space that I always look forward to visiting

Monday 29th of January 2024

I'm so glad you found this guide inspiring, and that you love the content :)

Monday 20th of November 2023

Wow! What a blast! I'd like to go to New Zealand so much!

Saturday 2nd of December 2023

Yessss Alona! I hope you make it there soon :)

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

What a great listicle of top countries to visit in February! I'd love to try Finland during this time. Thanks for sharing your recommendations, I'll be saving this for future inspiration!

Oh cool Kelly! Glad you found some inspiration here 🩵

Saturday 21st of October 2023

I think February is one of the best times to visit New Zealand (the later in the month, the better). It's the best temperatures, and you avoid the school holiday traffic.

Ah yes Rhonda! I mean, New Zealand anytime of year sounds awesome but it's definitely deserving of a spot for the month of February, too :)

This is an awesome listm never heard of Turks and Caicos before. The beach locations are stunning. Seychelles and Maldives are at the top of my bucketlist

So glad you found some inspiration Sinjana! Turks and Caicos is one of my absolute favorite Caribbean destinations. Sounds like we both love beachy spots!

I've traveled to over 40 countries around the world. These are the 5 underrated spots everyone should visit.

Posted: May 17, 2024 | Last updated: May 17, 2024

• I've always loved traveling and have visited over 40 countries around the world.
• Many of my favorite places that I've visited aren't typical tourist spots .
• Of all the countries I've been to, I've loved places like Colombia, Zimbabwe, and Morocco.

I've always loved traveling. In my opinion, there's nothing like waking up in a new country with a sense of excitement about what the day could bring.

Growing up in Australia, my bucket-list travel destinations were usually those you'd see in movies or on postcards — places like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland. And it seems like many tourists have similar travel goals, with spots like Paris and Los Angeles predicted to be two of the most-visited summer vacation destinations in 2024 .

But the more I traveled, the more I realized the countries I've enjoyed most are not necessarily the typical tourist hot spots. After visiting over 40 countries, these five are the underrated gems I recommend visiting.

Colombia offers lush scenery and vibrant architecture.

My husband and I did a three-month backpacking trip through South America in 2012. Beforehand, we were so excited about seeing the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ticking off Machu Picchu , and checking out Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.

Although we loved all of those places, we were also pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed Colombia, with its warm people, lush scenery, and vibrant architecture.

In Salento, we explored coffee estates and did an amazing hike in Cocora Valley, home to the Quindío wax-palm trees. We couldn't get over how green everything was.

But the colorful city of Cartagena was by far one of the highlights of our South American adventure. We spent countless hours walking the streets, admiring the multicolored colonial facades, and taking in the Caribbean vibes.

Note that the State Department has a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory in effect for Colombia, updated as of January. Wherever you travel, it's important to stay up to date on the latest conditions, which often vary even within countries.

We were blown away by the natural scenery in Laos.

When we traveled to Laos, we were blown away by the genuine, kind-hearted people and spectacular natural scenery .

Our favorite place we visited in this Southeast Asian country was Kuang Si Falls, where swimming is permitted in certain parts of the three-tiered, turquoise waterfalls.

Another thing we loved about Laos was the fresh and delicious food. After a day of exploring, we'd head to the local markets for some larb — a meat-based salad flavored with mint leaves, fish sauce, lime juice, and chiles.

Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do.

My husband and I traveled to Malta during a trip to London . The country had always been on my list of places to visit, as my grandfather was stationed there during World War II.

For such a small island nation, Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. For example, the walled capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . We loved wandering its streets and taking in the fortifications, churches, and Baroque architecture.

Visiting the Blue Grotto, which is a series of sea caves, was also breathtaking and a highlight of our trip.

Zimbabwe is home to extraordinary natural beauty.

Zimbabwe is home to some extraordinary natural beauty. One of the most popular attractions is Victoria Falls, the world's largest curtain of falling water. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means "the smoke that thunders."

We ended our day at the falls with drinks at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. As we enjoyed our cocktails, we watched the African wildlife come in for a drink.

Later, we headed to The Boma for dinner and a drum show. The buffet featured every type of game meat imaginable.

There's so much to see in Morocco.

My husband and I traveled to Morocco with his parents in 2013. Arriving in Marrakesh was a real culture shock for his folks, who were from country Victoria in Australia.

There was so much to see, from the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to the donkeys cruising up and down streets.

The highlight of our trip was a tour of a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert, complete with a camel trek. We ate chicken tagine under the stars and chatted with our host about life in the desert. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I'll never forget.

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Best Countries to Visit in August

Here is the list of 26 best countries to visit in august, 1. kenya - the country that'll leave you with memories for a lifetime.

Kenya in August offers pleasant weather and a remarkable opportunity to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Millions of wildebeest and other wildlife crossing the Mara River create an exceptional safari experience. The dry season in August ensures optimal safari conditions, making it an ideal period for wildlife enthusiasts and safari lovers to explore Kenya's diverse and abundant wildlife. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for safaris and major national parks; 2 weeks for a broader experience Currency : Kenyan Shilling (KES) Best Time : July to October Visa Policy  : E-visa or Visa on Arrival

2. Portugal - The best of Europe

August is a peak summer month in Portugal that invites travelers to explore the country's iconic attractions, from the historic streets of Lisbon to the scenic beauty of the Algarve coastline. Whether you're strolling through charming neighborhoods, indulging in cultural events, or basking on sun-kissed beaches, Portugal is a captivating country to visit in August, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable experiences amidst its diverse landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : Summer (July-August) Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region; 2 weeks for a broader exploration including Coimbra and the Douro Valley Visa Policy for Indians : Schengen Visa required

3. England - Amalgamation of royalty and culture

England basks in mild summer temperatures and longer daylight hours in August making it a splending time to visit the country. Popular attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the picturesque Lake District are at their vibrant best during this season, offering visitors an optimal experience. The delightful weather also makes outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring England's charming countryside particularly enjoyable, making it an ideal country to visit in August. Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for exploring London and nearby areas; 10-14 days for a broader exploration including cities like Oxford, Cambridge, and the Lake District Currency : Pound Sterling (GBP) Best Time : May to September (Warmer months) Visa Policy  : UK visa required

4. Malaysia - Truly Asia

August is a favorable time to visit Malaysia as it falls during the country's dry season, offering pleasant weather with minimal rainfall. The month provides ideal conditions for exploring Malaysia's diverse landscapes, from vibrant cities to tropical rainforests. Tourists can enjoy outdoor activities, cultural festivals, and pristine beaches, making August a prime period for a well-rounded and enjoyable Malaysian experience. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi; 2 weeks for a more extensive visit covering Borneo and the east coast islands Currency : Malaysian Ringgits (RM) Best Time : March to October (Dry season for West Coast), May to September (Dry season for East Coast) Visa Policy  : E-visa available or Visa on Arrival for short stays

5. Croatia - The Colourful Coastal Country

In the summer season, Croatia beckons with favorable weather characterized by warmth and abundant sunshine, making it an excellent period for beach enthusiasts and those seeking coastal experiences. The Adriatic Sea reaches its peak temperature, inviting visitors to indulge in water activities and leisurely swims. Furthermore, this vibrant season in Croatia is marked by a plethora of festivals and cultural events, adding a lively touch to the exploration of the country's rich cultural tapestry. Currency : Croatian Kuna (HRK) Best Time : April-May; August -September Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Dubrovnik, Split, and the Adriatic coast; 2 weeks for a more comprehensive visit including islands and national parks Visa Policy : Schengen Visa if entering Croatia through a Schengen country. Visa-Free or Visa on Arrival for many countries

6. Netherlands - The land of tulips

In the Netherlands, the end of summer in August offers travelers favorable weather conditions with comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the scenic landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages. Alongside the pleasant climate, visitors can partake in various outdoor events, festivals, and cultural activities that contribute to a vibrant and lively atmosphere, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the country. Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for exploring Amsterdam, Utrecht, and the Keukenhof Gardens; 10 days for a broader experience covering other cities like Rotterdam and The Hague Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : April to September (Spring/Summer) Visa Policy  : Schengen Visa required

7. Wales - The land of coasts

In August, Wales experiences mild weather and longer daylight hours, providing an ideal climate for outdoor exploration and scenic adventures. The vibrant landscapes, including lush green valleys and coastal beauty, are at their peak during this month, offering a picturesque backdrop for travelers. Additionally, August marks the season for various cultural events and festivals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Wales' rich traditions and vibrant community celebrations. Currency : British pound sterling (GBP) Best Time : May to September (Warmer months) Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for exploring Cardiff and Snowdonia National Park; longer for a more relaxed exploration of coastal towns and historic sites Visa Policy  : Visa not required for short stays

Discover the allure of Ireland in August, a month graced with lush green landscapes and inviting weather for outdoor pursuits. With extended daylight hours and pleasant temperatures, it's an ideal time to wander through scenic countryside and along the captivating coast. Engage in the vibrant ambiance of local festivals, where the rich cultural tapestry of Ireland unfolds against the backdrop of its breathtaking vistas. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Dublin, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher; 2 weeks for a more comprehensive exploration including the Ring of Kerry and Giant's Causeway Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : Summer (June-September) Visa Policy  : Short-stay visa required

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park - An abode to the world's largest cave

Known For : Phong Nha Cave Tien Son Cave Thien Duong Cave

Amidst the lush landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, August beckons adventurers with its optimal weather conditions. The monsoon season retreats, unveiling clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring the park's mesmerizing caves, dense jungles, and karst formations. As the natural beauty flourishes, August presents an excellent opportunity to embark on thrilling outdoor activities, unveiling the park's rich biodiversity and stunning geological wonders. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) Visa Policy : Check current requirements

Best Time: February to August

4 Phong Nha Attractions

10. Vietnam - A Timeless Charm

Vietnam presents an excellent destination to explore during August, with the country experiencing favorable weather conditions during this period. While the northern regions enjoy warm and dry weather, the central and southern parts experience their peak tourist season. This makes it an opportune time to visit popular attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An, as the weather allows for enjoyable outdoor activities. The unique blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty makes Vietnam a compelling choice for travelers seeking a diverse and memorable experience. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Halong Bay; longer for a more extensive exploration covering the central and northern regions Currency : Vietnamese Dong (VND) Best Time : November to April (Dry season in the north), May to October (Dry season in the south) Visa Policy  : Visa required

11. Indonesia - Where Culture Meets Nature

With a delightful fusion of favorable weather and captivating experiences, Indonesia becomes an enticing destination, especially during August. Enjoying dry conditions, particularly in regions like Bali, Java, and Sumatra, the country offers an ideal period for outdoor exploration. The enchanting attractions, from Bali's stunning beaches to Java's cultural wonders and Sumatra's diverse landscapes, make it a remarkable Southeast Asian adventure for travelers. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring Bali, Yogyakarta, and Lombok; longer for an extensive exploration including Sumatra and Komodo Island Currency : Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Best Time : May to September (Dry season for most regions) Visa Policy  : Visa required for most visits, Visa on Arrival or Visa exemption for many countries

12. Singapore - The Quintessential Cosmopolitan

Known For : Gardens by the Bay Sentosa Island Universal Studios Singapore

Celebrate the vibrant National Day festivities in Singapore during August, highlighting the country's rich cultural heritage through parades, fireworks, and various events. Despite occasional rain showers, the lush greenery and bustling urban life, along with attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa Island, make Singapore an enticing destination during this time. Ideal Duration: 4-5 days Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD) Visa Policy: Most nationalities can enter visa-free for short stays, but check specific requirements based on your country of origin.

Best Time: January to November

270 Singapore Attractions

13. Sri Lanka - A Land Like No Other

With its favorable weather marked by minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures, Sri Lanka becomes an ideal destination for exploration during this time. The country offers a rich cultural experience in places like Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, and invites visitors to uncover historical wonders such as Sigiriya. In August, travelers can immerse themselves in vibrant festivals like the Kandy Esala Perahera and unwind on the pristine beaches of the southern coast, creating a diverse and enticing experience. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Colombo, Kandy, and Sigiriya; longer for a more relaxed exploration of beaches and historical sites Currency : Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) Best Time : July - September (rainy) December to March (Dry season for most regions) Visa Policy : ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) required

14. Turkey - Blend of East and West

With its diverse attractions and favorable weather, Turkey becomes an optimal destination to explore during August. The country boasts warm temperatures, inviting travelers to visit iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the ancient city of Ephesus. Along the coastal regions, including the Turkish Riviera, visitors can indulge in a perfect retreat with beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, making Turkey a compelling choice for those seeking a seamless blend of history, culture, and leisure during this time of the year. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Mediterranean coast; 2 weeks for a broader exploration including Ephesus and Pamukkale Currency : New Turkish Lira (YTL) Best Time : April to May, August to November (Spring and Autumn) Visa Policy  : E-visa available or Visa on Arrival for many countries.

15. Greece - Sun, Sea, and Soul

With warm temperatures and clear skies, Greece becomes an attractive destination in August. The country offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring the historic Acropolis and Delphi to lounging on the beautiful beaches of Santorini. Whether you're drawn to ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, or a lively island ambiance, Greece stands out as a captivating country to visit during this summer month. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos; longer for a more comprehensive exploration including Crete and the mainland Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : March - April (Spring) and September - October (Autumn) Visa Policy  : Schengen Visa required for many countries

16. Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius is an enticing destination in August, boasting a mild winter season with temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. During this time, visitors can explore the diverse attractions the island nation has to offer, including pristine beaches, coral reefs, lush botanical gardens, and cultural sites. The comfortably cool weather enhances the experience, making Mauritius an enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, perfect for a visit in August. Ideal Duration : 1-2 weeks Currency : Mauritian Rupee (MUR) Visa Policy : Most visitors exempt for 90-day stays; valid passport and return ticket required.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

17. Scotland - An amalgamation of culture, nature and music

In August, Scotland becomes an inviting destination, offering mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Visitors can comfortably explore the country's renowned attractions, including the iconic Highlands, historic castles, and the vibrant city of Edinburgh. This month is particularly special for Scotland, hosting the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a delightful blend of cultural performances, arts, and festivities that adds to the allure of the country to visit in August. Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for exploring major cities and highlands; 10-14 days for a more comprehensive visit Currency : Pound Sterling (GBP) Best Time : May - September Visa Policy  : UK visa, depending on the purpose of visit

18. France - Cultural and Romantic Canvas of Europe

Embrace the allure of France during August, a month adorned with pleasant weather, warm temperatures, and extended daylight hours. This is the perfect time to discover iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, wander through the lavender fields of Provence, and indulge in the sun-drenched beaches of the French Riviera. As the country reaches the peak of its holiday season, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry, outdoor festivals, and vibrant atmosphere that define France as a must-visit destination in August. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Paris and nearby regions like Normandy or the Loire Valley; 2-3 weeks for a comprehensive visit covering multiple cities Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : April  to October (Spring and Autumn) Visa Policy : Schengen Visa required

19. New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

During August, New Zealand offers a distinctive travel experience, with the country entering its winter season. In this period, the South Island becomes a scenic winter wonderland, providing exciting opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in popular destinations such as Queenstown and Wanaka, while the North Island enjoys milder temperatures. Engaging in winter sports, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and savoring the warm hospitality make New Zealand a captivating destination to explore during this season. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for the North and South Islands' highlights; 3 weeks for a more extensive exploration Currency : New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Best Time : June - August (winter) November to February (Summer)  Visa Policy  : eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for short stays or Visa-Free for many countries

20. South Africa - Where Natural Beauty Abounds

Exploring South Africa in August is a delightful experience, benefitting from the country's winter season, which brings about pleasant weather, clear skies, and mild temperatures. This period is excellent for wildlife enthusiasts, as national parks like Kruger offer optimal game viewing, with animals congregating around water sources. The famed Garden Route also unveils its beauty during this season, creating a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences in South Africa. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring major cities and safaris; 3 weeks for a comprehensive experience Currency : South African Rand (ZAR) Best Time : May to September (Dry season, good for safaris); November to February (Summer) for coastal regions Visa Policy  : Visa required, various types available

21. Cambodia - A Country Rich in Heritage & Natural Beauty

August emerges as an excellent time to explore Cambodia, with favorable weather conditions allowing travelers to witness the country's cultural wonders. Amidst the dry season, popular attractions like Angkor Wat showcase their ancient splendor without the interruption of rain. The captivating blend of historical marvels, such as the temples of Siem Reap, and the pleasant weather make Cambodia an enticing country to visit in August for an enriching and weather-friendly experience. Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for main attractions like Angkor Wat; 10-14 days for more extensive exploration Currency : Cambodian Riel (KHR) Best Time : November to April (Dry season) Visa Policy  : E-visa or Visa on Arrival

22. Australia - Land Down Under

Australia beckons visitors in August with its mild winter weather, making it an ideal time to explore various parts of the country. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, temperatures are comfortable, allowing for pleasant outdoor activities. From the iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef to the cultural events and festivals taking place across the country, Australia emerges as a captivating country to visit in August, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring cities like Sydney and Melbourne; 3 weeks to a month for a more comprehensive exploration of multiple regions Currency : Australian Dollar (AUD) Best Time : Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) Visa Policy  : eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) or Visa, depending on the purpose and duration of stay

23. Spain - An explorer's paradise

August is considered one of the best times to visit Spain, as the country comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere and numerous festivities. The warm weather during this peak summer month makes it ideal for exploring Spain's iconic attractions, from the historic Alhambra in Granada to the architectural marvels of Barcelona, such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Moreover, the coastal regions, including the beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol and Costa Brava, offer a refreshing retreat, making Spain a captivating country to visit in August. Ideal Duration : 10-14 days for exploring Madrid, Barcelona, and Andalusia; longer for a more comprehensive visit exploring the north, islands, and historical regions Currency : Euro (EUR) Best Time : May to June, September to October (Spring and Autumn) Visa Policy for Indians : Schengen Visa required

24. Azerbaijan - The Land of Fire

August offers a delightful blend of favorable weather and captivating attractions. With temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, this summer month is perfect for exploring the country's diverse landscapes, from the historic city of Baku with its modern architecture to the scenic beauty of the Caucasus Mountains. The country to visit in August provides a unique opportunity to witness cultural events, including the Gabala International Music Festival, making it an ideal period for travelers seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Ideal Duration : 5-7 days for exploring Baku, Gobustan, and Sheki; longer for exploring the countryside and historic sites Visa Policy : eVisa available or Visa on Arrival for many countries

25. Georgia - Caucasus Charms, Stories of History

Georgia, as a country experiences mild temperatures and pleasant weather in August, making it conducive for exploring its rich cultural and historical attractions. From the vibrant capital, Tbilisi, with its eclectic architecture and lively atmosphere, to the stunning landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia offers a diverse range of experiences. Additionally, during August, the country hosts various festivals and events, providing visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions.  Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kazbegi; longer for exploring the wine region and mountains Best Time : May to September (Warmer months) Visa Policy  : eVisa available or Visa on Arrival for many countries

5 Attractions

26. Kazakhstan - The Land of the Wanderers

August emerges as an optimal time to visit Kazakhstan, as the country experiences pleasant weather marked by warm temperatures and clear skies. This season allows travelers to explore iconic attractions such as Almaty, Astana, and the Charyn Canyon in comfortable conditions. Moreover, the month showcases the vibrant culture of Kazakhstan, with various festivals and events taking place across the country, making it an enticing destination for those seeking a rich cultural experience. Visa Policy  : E-visa or Visa on Arrival Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for major cities and key attractions; 2 weeks for more extensive exploration Best Time : May to September (warmer months, ideal for outdoor activities)

This post was published by Alma Rosina

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What Is the Charles Schwab Visa Platinum Debit Card?

This debit card saved me multiple times while backpacking around the world, how i use the charles schwab investor checking account , is the charles schwab investor checking account worth it if you don’t travel, i traveled to 36 countries this past year. the card i reached for the most surprised me.

Travel credit cards are a must. But I would have missed out on valuable experiences without this debit card.

Contributor

Raina He is a contributor to CNET Money. She previously worked as an editor at CNET, focusing on credit cards, banking and loans. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Media and Journalism. Before coming to CNET Money, she was an editor at NextAdvisor, a personal finance news site that shared a parent company with CNET Money.

Courtney Johnston

Senior Editor

Courtney Johnston is a senior editor leading the CNET Money team. Passionate about financial literacy and inclusion, she has a decade of experience as a freelance journalist covering policy, financial news, real estate and investing. A New Jersey native, she graduated with an M.A. in English Literature and Professional Writing from the University of Indianapolis, where she also worked as a graduate writing instructor.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

Last year, I left my job as a personal finance editor to backpack across the world . Since I’d written about dozens of credit cards, I put my skills to the test to find the best travel credit cards to use on my trip. But the card that I found the most useful surprised me.

I signed up for different credit cards with large welcome bonuses that I used to pay for my flights and hotels. These cards came with travel protections to insure my purchases and some offered perks that upgraded my experience . But the most helpful card in my wallet turned out not to be a credit card at all -- the debit card that came along with my Charles Schwab High-Yield Investor Checking Account was the unsung hero of my travels.

Yes, my credit cards helped fund my trip and were a big reason why I was able to take this year off. But my Schwab Visa Platinum debit card fulfills an incredibly useful and necessary niche that my credit cards don’t. Here’s why this dark horse of a card is a must-have for international travelers.

Unlike a credit card, the Charles Schwab Visa Platinum Debit Card isn’t a separate card you can apply for on its own. Rather, it’s the debit card associated with the Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account .

As checking accounts go, however, this Schwab account is compelling. The Investor Checking Account is a free checking account with no minimum deposits or minimum balance requirements, no monthly fees, no overdraft fees and a 0.45% APY on your account balance -- just a few reasons why it won CNET’s Editors’ Choice award for best checking account . Best of all, there are no foreign transaction fees and you get unlimited ATM fee rebates for cash withdrawals worldwide. 

The card also comes with some nice benefits from Visa , such as extended warranty protection, price protection and travel accident insurance (when you pay with the card). The ability to set travel alerts and lock and unlock your card directly from the app, as well as add your card to mobile wallets, make it easy to use while traveling. 

I’ve also found this bank’s customer service to be excellent. Most account actions, like setting a travel notice or locking and unlocking your debit card, can be accomplished in Schwab’s banking app. But the few times I’ve needed to call customer service, I’ve always been able to reach a human quickly and have my problem resolved without issue.

To open an Investor Checking Account, you also need to open a brokerage account with Charles Schwab. But Charles Schwab’s brokerage accounts are free to open and maintain, and you don’t need to actively use it for investing if you don’t want to. So although it’s an extra step, there’s really no downside. 

The biggest benefit of this debit card is that you can withdraw money from any ATM without worrying about foreign transaction fees or ATM fees. Even if you’re used to a cashless lifestyle at home, when you’re traveling, you need cash. 

This card came in handy when I went to Oktoberfest in Munich and at multiple Christmas markets in Vienna. In both places, most of the food vendor stalls were cash only. There were typically ATMs available in the near vicinity, but they were often run by third-party companies that charged fees.

Even if you travel to a country where credit cards are widely accepted -- like most of western Europe -- many smaller businesses and street vendors will take only cash, or require a minimum purchase amount to use a card.

Certain parts of Southeast Asia were similar. At the night markets of Kuala Lumpur, for example, most of the food hawker stalls took only cash or QR code mobile wallets (a different system from the mobile wallets in the US). Without a steady supply of cash, I would’ve missed out on a lot of experiences while traveling. 

Some countries don’t widely accept credit cards. In Morocco, I often found that many restaurants, shops, museums and even locally run hotels and hostels accepted only cash. Basically, unless a place was a chain store or some high end establishment, I needed cash. It’s not too hard to keep $20 or $50 USD worth of local currency on hand to cover small purchases like street food or souvenirs, but needing to pay for week’s worth of lodging with cash can make for a hefty ATM withdrawal or currency exchange -- not to mention the commensurate fees, if you’re being charged for a percentage of the transaction. 

Taxis and public transportation in some countries are also cash-only. And it’s also good to have some cash for emergencies if your credit cards are ever declined or if you lose access to them. 

Is the Charles Schwab debit card the only way to get cash while traveling? Of course not. You can use your regular debit card at foreign ATMs -- but you might be charged a fee. You can also change dollar bills into the local currency of your destination at a bank in the US before you leave, or at a currency exchange service once you arrive. But then you’re stuck carrying all of your cash on you, which can be risky.

For me, being able to withdraw cash from any ATM, any time, without worrying about fees (after the reimbursement from Schwab) has made my travel experience much smoother. Specifically, it means:

• I can use the nearest ATM available, even in airports and “tourist trap” areas, without worrying about high fees.
• I don’t have to calculate how much money I need or carry large amounts of cash because I can withdraw cash in smaller quantities and go back for more without paying extra. This also means I’m less likely to end up with a large amount of foreign currency when I leave the country.
• I never worry about exchanging currency or finding the best exchange rate. I withdraw cash in the currency I need at a standard exchange rate every time.

During my eight-months-and-counting backpacking across Europe, Morocco and Asia, my Schwab checking account has been invaluable for managing my finances and accessing cash on my travels. And it’s not even my primary checking account .

Since I knew I wanted to use the Schwab debit card overseas, I decided to keep my money in my primary high-yield checking account that didn’t have an active debit card attached to it. As a tourist who was out and about all day in unfamiliar areas, I wanted to be cautious in case I was pickpocketed or lost my debit card. If my card was compromised before I had a chance to lock down my account, I didn’t want to risk losing more than a few hundred dollars.

So, I transferred a few hundred dollars into my Schwab account at a time and topped off the balance as I used it. I put all non-cash expenses on my credit cards -- both to earn rewards and for increased security. And of course, I made sure my credit cards were paid in full each month from my primary checking account.

This system has worked well for me so far and has helped me keep my money safe while traveling.

Even if you’re not jet setting across the globe, the Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account is still worth considering. Its ATM fee rebates work in the US as well, and while your bank likely has a domestic network of fee-free ATMs, it’s still nice to be able to use the most convenient ATM regardless of if it’s in-network. Even though credit cards are ubiquitous in America, there are still times and places you need cash.

Reimbursements aside, this account is a great checking account in and of itself, with no account fees, minimums or overdraft fees . Although its APY isn’t as high as some other high-yield checking accounts and it lacks some of the benefits of newer fintech banks (like early direct deposit ), it’s a solid option from a large and reputable institution. 

Plus, if you’re interested in investing, having a Charles Schwab brokerage account linked to your checking account makes it easy to transfer money between the two. Charles Schwab’s brokerage accounts have no opening and maintenance fees and no commissions on online stock and ETF trades. 

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This woman slashed $12,000 in credit card debt. steal her 5 tricks, want extra money for summer travel this card has a fast pay out, is a balance transfer worth it if you can’t pay it off in time this cfp’s take may surprise you.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

The Best Exhibitions This Spring Are Celebrating Female Artists

Landmark surveys are opening this month from Philadelphia to Los Angeles.

The last time there was a show in America dedicated to Mary Cassatt, the year was 1999. Given her stature as a grande dame of Impressionism and one of the very few women to have reached a level of fame (and collectibility) comparable to that of Monet, Manet, et al., this should come as a surprise.

The tide is turning across the country. Starting May 25 in Los Angeles, Mickalene Thomas takes center stage at the Broad in “Mickalene Thomas: All About Love,” which homes in on the past 20 years of her career with dozens of works that highlight her ongoing exploration of female identity and race. A short (for L.A.) drive away, at LACMA, a Simone Leigh retrospective opens on the 26th. “We should have always been celebrating these women at this level, and it’s incredible that it’s happening in such a concentrated way,” says Ed Schad, a curator of the Thomas show. “Now’s the time.”

Above: Mickalene Thomas created Monet’s Salle à Manger Jaune (2012) after a summer residency at Monet’s studio in Giverny.

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Haitian Flag Day 2024: A guide to events and ways to celebrate Haitian pride

Haitian Flag Day commemorates the creation of Haiti’s flag, a symbol deeply rooted in the nation’s struggle for independence. On May 18, 1803, amid the Haitian Revolution, leaders like Jean-Jacques Dessalines and Alexandre Pétion convened in Arcahaie to officially adopt the flag.

Most historical accounts credit Catherine Flon , an enslaved woman, with repurposing the French tricolor flag but omitting the white stripe to signify the rejection of white supremacy. The remaining blue and red stripes symbolized unity between Black and mixed-race residents in their quests for freedom.

Haiti’s flag is meant to represent themes of unity, independence and resistance. Haitian Flag Day celebrates that spirit while honoring the sacrifices made during the struggle for freedom and acknowledging Haiti’s rich cultural heritage.

Here is a sampling of festivals, parades, cultural events and demonstrations of Haitian pride across the U.S. All events are on May 18 unless noted otherwise.

• Albertville: Albertville Cultural Arts Festival  — Musical artists Nixon Leger, DJ Washny and DJ Beat headline the Albertville Cultural Arts Festival, which features music, art, delectable cuisine and activities for children. The Haitian American Association of Alabama hosts this event and other Caribbean fests.

California 

• Los Angeles: Haitian Flag Day — The Haitian community will kick off its Flag Day festivities in Leimert Park with a symbolic morning walk, followed by an afternoon festival with entertainment, live music and tantalizing cuisine.
• San Diego: Caribbean Pleasure Haitian Cuisine — Caribbean Pleasure Haitian Cuisine, a local restaurant, invites visitors to indulge in authentic flavors and experience the vibrant spirit of the community. The Haitian-owned restaurant has a 4.2-star rating on Google , and its menu includes dishes like oxtail and jambalaya.
• Denver: Empowerment for Haiti — Womenful Voice presents “Empowerment for Haiti,” a cultural gathering featuring dynamic speakers, performances by Haitian dancers, and a culinary journey with authentic Haitian cuisine and drinks.

Connecticut

• Hartford: Haitian Flag Celebration — The St. Justin-St. Michael Parish, a Catholic church, will host an evening celebration featuring authentic food and a floor to dance the night away in celebration.
• Stamford: Haitian Flag Raising Ceremony — Haitian American local leader Francise Jean-Louis presents the 12th annual Haitian flag-raising ceremony at 10:45 a.m. at the Stamford Government Center. The city board representative also hosts Haitian Heritage Month festivities throughout the entire state.
• Miami: The Haitian Compas Festival — Miami, a hub of Haitian pride, will host the 26th Haitian Compas Festival, a celebration of Haitian Flag Day featuring performances by Haitian artists including Nu Look, T-Vice and Klass.
• Orlando: ONO LIVE Featuring FRIDAYY — Join the festivities at Mango’s Tropical Café with music, drinks and dancing under the Haitian flag.
• Port St. Lucie: Treasure Coast Cultural Festival — Haitian Flag Day — Diverse vendors will be offering Haitian cuisine, cultural handmade goods and more. This free event will feature many Haitian artists including Harmonik and Andy Beatz.
• Atlanta: Haitian Flag Day Kickoff — The Georgia Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce will host a kickoff celebration on May 17 at the Atlanta City Hall Atrium. The event will include music, vendors, food, speakers, performances and more.
• Chicago: Haitian American Museum of Chicago — Explore the Haitian American Museum of Chicago for free on Haitian Flag Day and learn about Chicago’s Haitian influence, which can be traced back to its founding by Jean Baptiste Point DuSable . The organization has a host of events for Heritage Month.
• Evansville: Taste of Haiti Flag Day Celebration — The Haitian Center of Evansville will host a free celebration of Haitian Flag Day, complete with Haitian cuisine, lively music and vendor booths.
• Waterloo: Haitian Flag Day: Celebrating Haiti!  — Waterloo City Center celebrates Haitian Flag Day with traditional foods and lively entertainment. It’s a free-admission event for people to experience the culture of Haiti, the first Black republic in the world.
• Silver Spring: Lokal Haitian Flag Day — Gisele Restaurant will host a celebration featuring Haitian cuisine and music by live band DJ Zick. The band teased some of its Kompa music on Instagram .

Massachusetts

• Norwood: Haitian Flag Day Celebration  — Norwood Town Commons will celebrate Haitian culture with food, music and festivities.
• Boston: Boston Red Soxs game —A limited number of ticket buyers for the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Fenway Park on May 24 will receive a Red Sox Haitian Celebration jersey.
• Boston: 6th Annual Haitian American Business Expo and Job Fair — The business expo and job fair at Boston Prep is a free networking event. Attendees will include business owners, entrepreneurs and local elected officials.
• Boston: LIBÈTÉ a Haitian Flag Day Celebration — Join Navet 1804’s Flag Day event for an immersive experience honoring Haitian heritage, history and resilience. There will be cocktails, DJ performances, Haitian cuisine and domino games.
• Brockton: 18 Mai Nan Boston — Lva Mixx and DJ Smoov will host this year’s Boston Haitian Flag Day celebration, filled with music, dance and cultural pride. The door opens at 9 p.m. 
• Grand Rapids: Union in Action for Haiti — Dance to live Haitian music, eat Caribbean cuisine and watch lively dance performances at an outdoor event where the proceeds will help students and Haitian families in need. The event will feature vendors including Fran’s Earrings & Things .
• Kansas City: KC Haitian Flag Day celebration — Celebrate Haitian culture through music with free Kompa lessons, dance performances and a parade. The event will feature performances by Ayati Rara, DJ Flip Int’l, Crossfire and more.
• Las Vegas: Haitian Flag Day — Come dressed in your Haitian pride colors — blue and red — at this event featuring live music by D-Singer.
• Elizabeth: Zoe Fest  — Join Zoe Fest on North Broad Street for a night of music, food and fun to celebrate Haitian Flag Day. Zoe, a slang word that refers to Haitian people, explains the event title “The Zoe Take Over,” which means “The Haitians Take Over.”
• Brooklyn: Ayiti Cultural Soiree — Experience Haitian culture at the Ayiti Cultural Soiree in Brooklyn, featuring Haitian arts and cultural showcases, food and drinks.
• Brooklyn: Haïtian Flag Day Ride & Fête — Join a 10-mile solidarity ride through Little Haiti and other neighborhoods, followed by food, music, raffles and kremas tastings courtesy of Krem Liquor.
• Wyandanch: Haitian Flag Day — Join Shades of Long Island for Haitian Flag Day, a celebration of Haitian culture with food, music and more. It will also feature Haitian business owners.
• Westbury: ServeHAITI — Haitian Flag Day Celebration and Fundraiser — A celebration and fundraiser for ServeHAITI will include music, dance and food, paying tribute to Haiti’s culture and heritage as well as a speech by Frantz Bourget , a Haitian American business owner. ServeHAITI is an organization that serves people in Grand-Bois, 40 miles east of Port-au-Prince.

North Carolina  

• Lumberton: Haitian Flag Day — Lumberton’s local Haitian community will celebrate Haitian Flag Day with music, dancing and cuisine.
• Cary: Haitian Flag — Family Fun Day — Cary’s Family Fun Day celebration will celebrate Haiti’s culture and heritage with festivities for all including domino games and a soccer tournament.
• Charlotte: Experience the Culture — This festival features workshops like Creole 101, lessons on dancing and cooking, as well as panel discussions and activities for children. This free event by Haitian Heritage & Friends of Haiti will also have Haitian music by DJ D-Red and DJ Red Dog.

North Dakota

• Fargo: Haitian Flag Day — Rhythm Laughs Entertainment is hosting a night of culture and music with DJ Islandboy and DJ Lee Mix. The event costs $20 and will run from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
• Columbus: Haitian Flag Day Celebration — At Columbus’ Flag Day Celebration, you can support local businesses, indulge in Haitian food, and immerse yourself in Haiti’s culture, history and art. The event is free for kids and $10 for adults.

Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia: 8th Annual Haitian Flag Day Celebration After Party — This after-party features Haitian singers KennyMixx, Step is Back and Rara Militan 215 and top DJs including DJ Carens, DJ Most Wanted, and DJ RJMix.
• York: Haitian Flag Day Festival — This festival at William Penn Park hosted by Haitian American Community Outreach promises a day filled with Haitian music, traditional dances, traditional cuisine and family-friendly entertainment. 
• Austin: Haitian Flag Day Selebrasyon — Fanm Djanm, a headwrap retailer in Austin, often hosts community gatherings. On Saturday, 10% of the purchases at the store will be donated to Bati School, which provides education for children in a mountain community in Haiti.
• Plano: Haitian Flag Day Picnic — Contribute a Haitian dish to a Flag Day potluck while enjoying music, soccer and more.
• Norfolk: Annual Haitian Flag Day Celebration — Proceeds from ticket sales for the event hosted by One Hope For Haiti will go to help a Haiti-focused nonprofit organization.
• Seattle: Kompa Night Haitian Flag Day — Celebrate Haitian Flag Day on May 18 in Seattle with a Kompa Night featuring music including Kompa, Afrobeats and dancehall alongside authentic Haitian food.

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm