If you are looking for an exciting new travel destination to check out, there are several options to check out in the new year.
Whether you want to kick back on a postcard-perfect, sparkling white sand beach or get lost in a lush jungle with the sounds of curious birds and monkeys in the canopy overhead, there is an otherworldly hot spot with your name on it.
VIA has rounded up a list of places around the world that offer unique travel experiences in stunning natural settings.
Have a look at some of the best options available and how to plan your trip to them from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Bora Bora
Known for warm locales, a rich culture, and pristine beaches, the sun-soaked island sees scores of visitors seeking private and often romantic holidays in private, over-water bungalows. These eye-catching accommodations and the island’s captivating inlets have made the destination a social media darling, with honeymooners sharing snaps of breathtaking views from their private digs.
Find out everything you need to know about planning your trip to Bora Bora from Vancouver.
Aerial of overwater bungalows, Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Photo via Matteo Colombo/Moment/Getty Images
Barbados
It might be the birthplace of rum, but it isn’t the dark liquor that makes this island magical (although the rum is top-notch).
Barbados overwhelms the senses from all angles. While it is a fairly small country — you can drive across the island in under an hour — the landscape varies drastically, offering the mighty swells of the Atlantic on one side and the calming Caribbean on the other.
Bajans have an infectious warmth and spirit, as evidenced by their lively celebrations and inviting culture. During the summer months, a visit to the country may coincide with Crop Over celebrations, which means there will be a party that you can attend virtually any time of the day every day of the week (yes, a place this awesome really does exist) .
And if you attend one of these celebrations — or even if you just happen to be in the right place at the right time — you might spot one of music’s biggest stars.
Fenty Beauty owner Rihanna hails from St. Michael and owns a massive mansion on the island that overlooks its hypnotically blue waters on the Caribbean side.
Here is everything you need to know to book a trip from Vancouver to Barbados.
Barbados Beach with Palm Trees. Photo via Deejpilot/iStock/Getty Images Plus
Fiji
Nadi is a town on Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu. The capital and largest city, Suva, is also located on the big island. But with 333 remote tropical islands, visitors will discover plenty of crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, plenty of sunshine, and an array of activities.
The county is also known as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World,” which makes underwater exploration a diver’s dream.
Here is everything you need to know to book a trip from Vancouver to Fiji.
Empty hammock in the shade of palm trees on tropical Fiji Islands. Photo via mvaligursky/iStock/Getty Images Plus
Vietnamese
Postcard-perfect shores with blazing sunshine, friendly locals, and arguably one of the best value for your dollar for any tourist destination in the world, visitors can discover most parts of Vietnam at a steal.
Considered the county’s most popular tourist attraction, cruises through Halong Bay include mesmerizing vistas of over 1,500 islands and islets with limestone pillars rising from that rise majestically from the ocean; most of them are uninhabited spots and untouched by human presence. it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a couple of threatened species that are endemic to the area, meaning they aren’t found anywhere else on Earth.
Find out everything you need to know about planning your trip from Vancouver to Vietnam.
Vietnam, Phu Quoc island, Bai Bien Sao beach. Photo via Andrea Pistolesi/Stone/Getty Images
Hawaii
Maui re-opened to travel in November 2023 but officials caution against visiting areas that continue to struggle in the wake of the tragedy. However, travelers will find no shortage of places to visit across the rest of Hawaii instead.
Honolulu on Oahu is famous for its breathtaking, crescent-shaped beach and offers incredible nightlife, shopping and dining — but it’s only one of several islands to enjoy.
One of Hawaii’s most popular attractions is the Diamond Head Crater located near the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline, which was formed about 300,000 years ago during a volcanic explosion. Considered the state’s most recognizable landmark, the stunning saucer-shaped crater offers sweeping coastal views and a historic hiking trail.
Here is everything you need to know to book a trip from Vancouver to Hawaii.
Photo: Waikiki beach / Getty Images
Bali
For many travelers, Bali offers a rare blend of culture, natural beauty, high-end resorts, low-cost accommodations, and a spiritual gravity that few other places command. People from across the world travel to the tropical provinces to live, work, and holiday; some stay for a spell, and others fall in love with its paradoxical charms and never leave.
Find out everything you need to know about planning your trip to Bali from Vancouver.
Young beautiful woman wearing white dress and straw hat is sitting under palm leaves on a tropical beach. Photo via bloodua/iStock/Getty Images Plus
Costa Rica
Animal lovers, thrill-seekers, beach bums, and anyone looking to take a walk on the wild side will find countless options in magical Costa Rica.
Tourists will find jaw-dropping, sparkling white-sand beaches located just steps away from lush rainforests, which are home to sloths, several species of monkeys, and hundreds of brightly-colored birds.
Here is everything you need to know to book a trip from Vancouver to Costa Rica.
There are many ways you can make the airport a comfortable place for travelers. One of them is by maintaining cleanliness in various corners.
Skytrax, An independent agency that ranks aviation has released its awards again World Airports Award. In this award, there are several categories up for grabs, including the cleanest airport in the world 2024.
Wow, is there an airport from Indonesia, huh? The following is a list of the cleanest airports in the world.
Also Read: Hamad Beats Changi, 10 Best Airports in the World 2024
Almost all aspects are seen to be clean
Continue reading the article below
Editor’s picks
Airport illustration (pixabay.com/Skitterphoto)
Not haphazardly, Skytrax assess several aspects of the airport. Starting from the cleanliness of floors, seating, public areas, to toilet facilities. Moreover, passengers’ demands for cleanliness are also getting higher after Covid-19 shocked the whole world.
The following is a list of airports that have been named the cleanest airports in the world in 2024.
Tokyo Haneda International Airport, Japan.
Seoul Incheon International Airport, South Korea.
Changi International Airport, Singapore.
Doha Hamad International Airport, Qatar.
Chubu Nagoya Centrair International Airport, Japan.
Tokyo Narita International Airport, Japan.
Kansai Osaka International Airport, Japan.
Hong Kong International Airport.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan.
Zurich International Airport, Switzerland.
Unfortunately, no Indonesian airport is on the list as the cleanest airport in the world Skytrax. Hopefully next year there will be airports from our country on the list, okay?
Also Read: 7 Public Transportation Options to Soekarno-Hatta Cengkareng Airport
Martinique Lewis will include urban Jacksonville locations in articles and social media posts geared towards black tourists leading up to Juneteenth.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In May the NAACP issued a travel advisory for the state of Florida. The organization did this after what it called “aggressive attempts to erase black history and restrict diversity in Florida schools” by Governor Ron DeSantis.
While this advisory is meant to keep black people safe and inflict economic impacts on the state, it may also be damaging to black owned businesses that rely on tourism dollars.
It’s summertime across the country, millions of Americans are going to travel and many of them planned to come to Florida… and then the NAACP issued a travel advisory against the state.
But that’s not keeping everyone away from the Sunshine State.
“Every time I went somewhere new it was shocking,” said Martinique Lewis, “tons of favorite moments.”
Lewis is a diversity and travel consultant who published the ABC Travel Greenbook in 2020 with the goal of highlighting black communities that can become travel destinations. Her latest visit was Jacksonville, but not the location that may come to mind first.
“I didn’t go to the beaches at all,” said Lewis, “actually I prefer it that way because that’s what people already know. As a travel content creator I want to tell the stories of places that are lesser known.”
Lewis plans to release a series of articles and social media video content leading to Juneteenth that features places like White Harvest Farms on Moncrief Road.
“It’s such a major player in how Jacksonville will change because it’s there,” said Lewis, “I really enjoyed that, it was the first time I’ve ever seen bees, the first time I’ve ever met a black bee keeper, it was truly inspiring.”
Lewis has an international following on social media and released a documentary on Disney+ earlier this year based on the 1940 book The Negro Motorist Green Book. While she understands why a travel advisory was created, she thinks there may be unintended consequences.
“It hurts black owned businesses the most,” said Lewis, “and that’s why the Black Travel Alliance was created and I do what I do in the content creator space to help amplify black owned businesses. The way I’m able to combat it on my own is to tell the story of these black owned businesses. I will continue to use my voice to help combat people’s fears of traveling to Florida.”
More information about Martinique Lewis, the ABC Travel Green Book and the Black Travel Alliance can be found here: https://www.martysandiego.com/
To learn more about the Clara White Mission and White Harvest Farms visit this website: https://www.clarawhitemission.org/white-harvest-farms.
Domestic and foreign media are looking at Da Nang with admiration and expectations as the city has been named as the most liveable city in Viet Nam, a beautiful place that looks like Singapore, and more. The past decade was considered as the golden period of the city’s tourism as the city has received countless international awards.
Da Nang is attracting tourists from far and wide with bookings soaring for this summer. Photo: ST
In 2022 alone, Da Nang was honored with prestigious international titles, including ‘Asia’s Leading Festival and Event Destination 2022’ awarded by World Travel Awards; the 21st position in the list of 25 most popular tourist destinations in Asia voted by Tripadvisor; one of 10 best cities in Southeast Asia voted by New York-based Travel & Leisure Magazine. Recently, Booking.com has unveiled that Da Nang on par with Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has been named among the most visited destinations by Vietnamese tourists. Hence, Da Nang has been able to deliver unbelievable results in its tourism industry.
Da Nang has emerged as one of the hottest travel destinations this summer. The city is attracting tourists from far and wide, with bookings soaring for the summer months. The attractiveness of the city is mainly attributed to a series of world-class events during this summer. Most notably, the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2023 attracted a large number of tourists at both home and abroad.
Data provided by the Da Nang Statistics Department showed that the city saw an increase of 95.6% over the same period in 2022 in the number of tourist arrivals to reach more than 700,000, in May 2023. In which, international visitor arrivals in the city were estimated at over 169,000. In particular, the number of visitor arrivals at tourist accommodation establishments was more than 2.8 million in the first 5 months of 2023, 3.1 times more than in the corresponding period of 2022.
In fact, Da Nang has recorded vertical growth in its tourism industry not only in recent years, but also in more than a decade ago. For the first time ever, Da Nang has set a target in 2016 to attract more than 5 million tourist arrivals.
However, in the first 9 months of 2016, tourist arrivals in the city reached 4.5 million, an 18.3% rise compared with the previous year. It is quite interesting that Da Nang has maintained such a high growth rate of tourist arrivals in the following years. Most notably, nearly 8.6 million tourist arrivals were recorded in 2019, of whom, 3.5 million were foreigners. For the first time in history, Da Nang has welcomed such a high number of international arrivals.
The Politburo’s Resolution No. 33 on the construction and development of Da Nang during the process of industrialization and modernization in Viet Nam, identified the tourism industry as Da Nang’s key economic sector, as well as identified Da Nang as a tourism hub of the country.
In its efforts to achieve the above-mentioned goals, the Da Nang government has recently created a tourism development strategy in Da Nang to 2030, with a vision to 2045. Under this strategy, by 2030, Da Nang will strive to become a hub for tourism and high-quality services, an innovative destination of Viet Nam and Southeast Asia. By 2045, the city will be named as the best place to visit in Asia.
It is clear that, Da Nang has developed its tourism development policy with a focus on promoting the development of the tourism industry at the regional and Asian level. Da Nang can use its subjective and objective factors to make it the top tourist destination in Asia. The city will adopt bold solutions in order to turn its goals into reality.
In order to achieve the above-mentioned goals, local residents have an important role to play in implementing the sustainable development goals for the tourism sector in addition to the determination of the city’s leaders and efforts of the tourism industry itself.
So many places to see in the world. So many people eager to see them.
International tourism reached about 90% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, and the United States issued a record number of passports. And if you visited any popular destination over the summer, you’d probably argue it was more crowded than ever.
So maybe it’s time to look at places that are still largely undiscovered, or alluring in the offseason, or frequently overlooked for their larger first cities or neighbors. Maybe it’s time to head to places that are making it easier for tourists to visit and those that pay close attention to encouraging tourism that’s sustainable.
With those things in mind, CNN Travel chose 24 places to consider as you make your 2024 plans:
Sumba, Indonesia
These dancing trees can be found along the mangrove forest near Walakiri Beach in Sumba Island, Indonesia.(Tengguo Wu/iStockphoto/Getty Images/iStockphoto via CNN)
For those looking for a beach destination that prioritizes community consciousness and sustainability, the Indonesian island of Sumba delivers.
RELATED: 8 of 2023’s worst destinations for overtourism. Here’s how to avoid the crowds next year
With its remote villages, untouched forests, ancient rituals and world-class surf breaks, Sumba is the perfect antidote to the crowds of Bali, which is just an hour’s flight away. It might not be internationally famous yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s small. Sumba is more than 4,000 square miles in size (more than 10,000 square kilometers) – twice the size of Bali.
It was the Nihi Sumba resort that brought this island into luxury seekers’ sights when it first opened in 2012. More than a decade on, Sumba has welcomed several new luxury eco-resorts. These include The Sanubari, a series of beachfront villas that opened in 2022, and Cap Karoso, located on the island’s southwest. —Karla Cripps
Turkey’s Black Sea coast
Frescoes cover the interior of the Rock Church at Sumela Monastery in Turkey’s Black Sea region.(imageBROKER.com/Alamy via CNN)
Far less known than the Mediterranean yacht-magnet resorts of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the Black Sea region, also known as Karadeniz, offers a very different side of the country. Less touristed and with a cooler, damper climate that produces verdant scenery and delicious black tea, the region has historic towns and villages as well as beaches and adrenaline-producing activities.
In summer, it’s a refreshing escape from Turkey’s more sweltering regions. Visitors can explore ancient streets that still echo to the clang of blacksmith hammers in Safranbolu, soak up beach life in Amasra and climb to where one of the world’s oldest monasteries clings to a cliff at Sumela.
For thrill-seekers, there’s white water rafting, and when winter brings heavy snowfalls, the region’s eastern Kaçkar Mountains transform into a heli-skiing paradise. —Barry Neild
Tartu, Estonia
Tartu is a 2024 European Capital of Culture.(Mana Kaasik/European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 via CNN)
Pucker up. Tartu, in southern Estonia, has been named a European Capital of Culture for 2024 — with special attention paid to kissing. One of this university city’s most celebrated sights is its statue of two students locked in a passionate embrace, but herein the “City of Good Thoughts,” the love-in is more high-minded than carnal.
Tartu is renowned as Estonia’s intellectual center, home to its oldest university as well as the must-visit Estonian National Museum and the impressive Science Centre AHHAA, the largest science museum in the Baltics.
The Old Town is the perfect place to base yourself, but just north of the city center on the banks of the Emajõgi River, Supilinn (“Soup Town”) is also worth a visit. This historic neighborhood filled with pretty, wooden houses was formerly a slum but is now becoming one of the city’s most desirable addresses. —Maureen O’Hare
Tainan, Taiwan
Tainan is known for its thriving street food scene. Pedestrian Fuzhong street is pictured here.(Keitma/Alamy via CNN)
Celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2024, Tainan has become a Taiwan hotspot on the international stage. This southern city has surpassed the capital, Taipei, to boast the highest overall hotel occupancy rate in Taiwan in the past two years.
What makes it so special? Tainan is considered the street food capital of Taiwan and is loved for its beef soups and oyster omelets, otherworldly natural landscapes (check out Tsao Shan Moon World), scenic sunsets over salt farms, colorful old temples and cool new museums.
It was also listed among Booking.com’s top 10 sustainable tourism destinations in 2023. —Maggie Hiufu Wong
Northwest Michigan
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore boasts a number of hikes, including a strenuous one over the towering dunes that leads to Lake Michigan.(Deb Snelson/Moment RF/Getty Images)
Refreshing, unsalty Lake Michigan lures boatloads of tourists in summer, but the shoreline, quaint towns and rolling countryside of Northwest Michigan have plenty to offer year-round. On Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City makes a great home base for exploring wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas or picking cherries or apples in season. Then fall’s foliage is ripe for peeping, followed by winter’s inviting blankets of snow.
From Traverse City, the scenic M-22 highway winds up the Leelanau Peninsula and hooks back down through Leland, home to a historic fishing village and a collection of interesting shops and galleries. Glen Arbor is another town worth perusing on the way to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where off M-109 an all-sand, 3.5-mile hike over massive dunes to the Great Lake and back preps hardy hikers for a delicious dinner.
Farm Club, a farm-restaurant hybrid seven miles from downtown Traverse City, serves beautifully prepared dishes showcasing the region’s ingredients — many grown on site — in a minimalist, barnlike space that spills outdoors. —Marnie Hunter
Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, Balkans
Launching in 2024, the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route will be the first and only bike route to link all eight countries of the Western Balkans. The 100-stage trail is designed for cyclists of all abilities and its 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) is made up of quiet asphalt roads, forest trails and bike paths.
Riders can enjoy Albania and Croatia’s spectacular coastlines, Kosovo’s national parks, Montenegro’s rugged mountains and lush woodland and sparkling rivers throughout Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia.
Riders can get more information and sign up for news of route updates, maps, accommodation and services at transdinarica.com. —MO
Culebra, Puerto Rico
A rusting tank makes for unusual beachcombing on Culebra’s Flamenco Beach.(cdwheatley/iStockphoto/Getty Images)
Puerto Rico is large and makes for a great island escape. But what if you want an escape from your great island escape? That’s where little Culebra comes in. It’s about 20 miles (32 kilometers) off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico and world away from San Juan’s noisy, rum-soaked nightlife.
The emphasis here is on outdoor activities and unwinding. Be sure to check out Flamenco Beach, curving for about a mile around a sheltered bay. It has little in the way of waves, making it a superb spot for snorkeling and swimming. And a graffitied tank — a US military relic — offers a striking photo op.
Much of the island is a natural refuge, and you can also go hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and fishing. Take a day trip or stay over and make it your main destination. —Forrest Brown
Angola
Cristo Rei in Lubango towers over a landscape that most tourists have yet to discover.(Eric Lafforgue/Art In All Of Us/Corbis/Getty Images)
This southern African nation is trying hard to make a break on the tourism scene, having recently introduced a quick-approval tourism e-visa. While major tourism infrastructure might not be up to speed yet, it’s a chance to explore a country still off the travel radar.
The capital of Luanda has a reputation as a pricey party city, but out in the wide-open spaces beyond, Angola has some jaw-droppingly spectacular scenery and cultural treats. Second city Lubango offers Portuguese colonial architecture, an impressive Rio-style Christ the King hilltop statue and access to the Tundavala Gap, a giddying plunge from cool tablelands into shimmering dusty plains.
Also worth a look: the dramatic 1,300-foot-wide (396 meters) Calendula Falls and Atlantic coastline surfing paradises such as Barra do Kwanza and Cabo Ledo. —BN
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Tourists walk among the Hopewell Rocks at low tide along the Bay of Fundy.(Eric Carr/Alamy via CNN)
Not to be confused with St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, Saint John is located in New Brunswick — also on Canada’s east coast. This charming little city is an excellent base from which to enjoy the nearby Bay of Fundy, famed for having the world’s highest tides.
The city itself is filled with historic architecture, including the Saint John City Market, a National Historic Site of Canada. Built from 1874 to 1876, it’s filled with shops and food venues. A five-minute walk away is the Saint John Arts Centre. Set in the city’s historic Carnegie Building, it’s the only former Carnegie Library in eastern Canada.
In terms of accommodation, there are seaside cottages, hotels, motels, campgrounds, historic inns and B&Bs. Food here is as excellent as you’d expect from a maritime city in Canada, with a broad range from cheap eats to fine dining. —KC
South Korea
Andong Hahoe Folk Village showcases the traditional side of South Korea.(Sanga Park/iStock/Getty Images)
With word that “Squid Game” — still the most-watched show on Netflix — is set to return with a new season in 2024, it’s time once again to embrace the K-wave.
Thankfully, travel to the country is easier than ever before. The government is waiving its K-ETA requirement — the electronic travel visa for South Korea — for travelers from 22 countries till the end of 2024 as part of its Visit Korea Year campaign.
This is a country that truly has it all. After exploring futuristic cities such as Seoul and Busan, the cultural and historic side of old Korea awaits at Andong, dubbed the “Spirit of South Korea,” or the seven cemeteries of the ancient Gaya Tumuli, newly inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023. —MHW
Albania
Theth National Park. Albania. One of the most beautiful travel destinations in Europe.(SzymonBartosz/iStock/Getty Images)
Sandwiched on the Adriatic coast between Greece and Montenegro, it’s astonishing that Albania wasn’t more popular as a beach destination before. But its wallet-friendly prices have seen tourism boom here over the past few years — so much so that in 2023, record numbers of Italians flocked across the Adriatic for their bargain summer breaks.
2024 sees the opening of a new airport at Vlorë, on the coast, which will make those beach trips easier. But there’s far more to Albania than its coast. The country has a rich culture, including Christian and Muslim history, with historical centers in towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër, as well as jaw-dropping mountain landscapes (Theth is the most popular).
In 2023, Albania got Europe’s first wild river national park, around the 168-mile (270-kilometer) Vjosa River — or to go really off the beaten track book a self-drive tour with Drive Albania. —Julia Buckley
Chile
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is a pilgrimage site for hundreds of thousands of long-distance walkers each year.(samael334/iStockphoto/Getty Images)
Stretching about 2,700 miles from top to toe, long and slim Chile offers a little something for everyone. In the north, spectacular landscapes simulate Mars on Earth in the Atacama Desert, where the 51-room Our Habitas Atacama emphasizes sustainability. The new hotel is a good fit for the “world’s leading green destination,” a title Chile just picked up at the World Travel Awards for the second year in a row.
The natural world puts its best foot forward all over the country: Thousands of miles of Pacific coastline to the west, the towering Andes in the east and lakes, volcanoes and wild Patagonia in the south.
World-class skiing in July and August — a welcome break from the sweltering Northern Hemisphere — is two hours or less from the capital, Santiago. And the new high-altitude Parque Nacional Glaciares near the city protects land in the country’s most populous and historically little-protected area. —MH
Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia
The biodiverse Abrolhos Islands are home to sea lions, dolphins, wallabies, lizards and more.(Bill Bachman/Alamy via CNN)
Every year there’s another installment in the soap opera surrounding the Great Barrier Reef — will it be de-listed by UNESCO? Has the coral regrowth gone well this season?
For tourists who’d rather not wade into the situation, there’s another way to experience some of Australia’s gorgeous underwater bounty. About 37 miles (60 kilometers) off the coast of Western Australia, the lesser-known Abrolhos Islands are home to some of the most beautiful scenery of the country’s Coral Coast, above and below the water.
Humpback whales pass through in the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, and lucky travelers may catch a glimpse of Australian Sea Lions. There are no hotels on the islands, so intrepid visitors can either overnight in the town of Geraldton or splash out for a liveaboard boat, which provides opportunities to watch brilliant sunsets over the Indian Ocean and scuba dive in the early hours when the fish are at their most active. —Lilit Marcus
Macedonia, Greece
People promenade by the sea in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city.(Hemis/Alamy via CNN)
Athens and the islands get more crowded every year, but in northern Greece, the region of Macedonia is relatively free from overtourism. Yet it has everything visitors flock elsewhere in Greece to see: archaeological sites, history-rich towns and beaches galore.
This was the land of Alexander the Great. His father, Philip II of Macedon, is buried at Vergina, where his tomb has been turned into a world-class subterranean museum displaying the finds. Nearby, there are Byzantine remains in the hilltop city Veria, and superb wineries such as Kir-Yianni in the rolling hills around Naousa.
Thessaloniki — the region’s capital and Greece’s second city — is a gastro hub as well as a mishmash of architectural and archaeological eras. Near the city are the sandy beaches of Halkidiki; toward the border with Thrace are archaeological spots like ancient Philippi, and the city of Kavala, whose Ottoman past shows in every building. —JB
Panama
It may be most famous for the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal, but this Central American country is so much more than a transit destination.
Not only does Panama have a vibrant capital city with a historic old quarter that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the country also holds over a dozen national parks, including Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama.
Panama City is also the only world capital with a tropical rainforest within its city limits. Visitors keen to delve further into Panama’s cultural landscape in a sustainable way can book community-based tourist adventures through a digital portal called SOSTUR Network, which connects travelers with rural communities and tourism businesses. —Tamara Hardingham-Gill
Galicia, Spain
People bike along a bicycle route on Paseo de Montejo in Mérida, the capital of Yucatán state.(megapress images/Alamy via CNN)
Empty beaches bordered by the wild Atlantic Ocean and framed by the rugged landscape of the Islas Atlánticas National Park. Mouth-watering seafood. And a historic city forever entwined with the famed Camino de Santiago. Welcome to Galicia, an autonomous region in the northwest tip of Spain.
Galicia’s regional capital city, Santiago de Compostela, has long been on the tourist map thanks to its striking 12th-century cathedral, which is the endpoint for the hundreds of thousands of walkers who embark on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage each year. But even if you weren’t planning on packing your walking boots, bustling Santiago should be on your radar.
And for spectacular views, head to Cabo Fisterra, a rocky peninsula home to the picturesque Finisterre lighthouse. The former lighthouse residence is the Hotel O Semáforo de Fisterra. Lighthouses are a bit of a theme in Galicia — there are 19 in total, including the UNESCO-protected 1st-century Tower of Hercules, believed to be the world’s oldest surviving Roman lighthouse. —Francesca Street
Singapore’s offshore islands
The city-state of Singapore shows urbanism at its finest: biophilic skyscrapers, neon-lit supertrees and six-star hotels all outdoing each other to redefine “luxury.” But venturing off the peninsula is quickly becoming a more interesting option.
Singapore is developing some of its smaller, uninhabited islands by, well, not developing them. Just a ferry ride away from the mainland, Lazarus Island is now home to a few rentable tiny houses made with reconstituted wood and powered by solar energy. Nearby, Sisters’ Island will open the country’s first marine park — including a sea turtle hatchery and coral protection area — in 2024.
Already open for exploring is St. John’s Island, where a 1.7-mile trail highlights native plants and flowers while shining a light on the island’s colorful history, which included a period as a quarantine center during a cholera outbreak. It’s a fitting place to think about life after a pandemic. —LM
Mérida, Mexico
The Yucatán Peninsula is best known for its tropical beaches, but venture inland, and you’re in for an unexpected urban treat.
“Mérida’s uniqueness comes from a blend of Mayan and colonial heritage,” said David Casanova, who has a real estate YouTube channel on Yucatánstate’s capital citywith his wife, Megan Sequeira Casanova. “The city’s excitement starts with its diverse cuisine and friendly locals and expands to its year-long favorable weather.”
In town, Paseo de Montejo is lined with historic mansions, museums, art galleries and local vendors. The Casanovas tout the city’s boutique hotels, including Kuka y Naranjo. For nearby getaways, there’s Progreso Beach (less than an hour away), fascinating Mayan ruins and underground water caves called cenotes.
If you’re concerned about personal safety in Mexico, the US State Department rates Yucatán and Campache states as the two safest as of December. —FB
Morocco
Tétouan in northern Morocco is home to a UNESCO-listed medina.(Gordon Sinclair/Alamy via CNN)
A longtime travel favorite thanks to its diverse landscape and spectacular architecture, Morocco has bounced back determinedly after a devastating earthquake this past September.
While visitors tend to congregate in popular cities such as Marrakech, Rabat and Fes, the country certainly isn’t short of less crowded spots that are arguably just as alluring. Standouts include Tétouan, the city near the first Regis Hotels and Resorts Morocco property, and the historic Meknes, which is among the country’s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Morocco is proving to be a world leader when it comes to sustainable tourism, with the launch of various initiatives to boost its renewable energy generation. The country is also home to a number of significant eco-friendly hotels, including the Berber-run Kasbah du Toubkal, located at the base of the spectacular High Atlas Mountains. —THG
Florida’s freshwater springs
Visitors at Wakulla Springs will find refreshing 70 F (21 C) degree water.(Yvette Cardozo/Alamy via CNN)
How would you like to immerse in water clear as gin any day of the year? You can do that in some of the 1,000 or more recognized fresh-water springs scattered around northern and central Florida.
These pristine natural pools provide stable temps and visibility for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, diving, wildlife viewing and more. Here are a few of the best:
Wakulla Springs has a swimming area in 70 F (21 C) degree water, and the state park offers a boat ride tour. The depth at the vent is about 185 feet (56 meters). Rainbow Springs is considered one of the most beautiful in the state. Ginnie Springs, a privately owned site, is renowned for its diving and cavern. —FB
Texas Hill Country
In the heart of Texas, Hill Country boasts its own natural springs. One prime spot, Krause Springs in Spicewood, lures visitors with more than its spring-fed pool and natural swimming hole — there’s also a butterfly garden full of magical wind chimes. And the Blue Bonnet Cafe — home to some of the world’s most divine cream pies — is just a short drive away in Marble Falls.
Meanderers will also find rolling hills and hiking trails, winding rivers, wineries, barbecue, music and dance halls, plus an explosion of wildflowers in March and April. And in 2024, April also brings a celestial spectacle to Hill Country — the total solar eclipse on April 8.
Gruene Hall in New Braunfels is legendary among Texas’ historic dance halls, and Luckenbach, a tiny hamlet outside the larger German-influenced town of Fredericksburg, has a dance hall and regular pickers’ circles under the oak trees. —MH
Fujairah
One of the smaller and lesser-known emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is as mellow as it is beautiful. Filled with spectacular mountain ranges and pristine beaches, it’s significantly less developed than the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering an authentic and tranquil vibe that’s hard to beat.
Fujairah has a cooler climate compared with the other emirates because of its mountainous setting, but the winter months are definitely the most pleasant time to visit.
Snoopy Island, a snorkeling spot that looks like the famous cartoon dog lying on his back, is a top draw thanks to its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, while the cascading waterfalls of the Wadi Wurayah National Park are another must-see. —THG
Greenland
The jaw-dropping landscapes of Greenland — an autonomous territory of Denmark situated northeast of Canada — are set to get a little more accessible for international travelers this year.
New international airports are opening in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, and the coastal city of Ilulissat. These aviation hubs promise longer runways that will be able to handle larger commercial aircraft. The climate crisis is a visible, real threat in Greenland, and investment in the tourism sphere is increasing as changing climates pose roadblocks to traditional industries.
Learn more about how Greeenland is adapting, and the stories of the Inuit people who’ve lived in the region for thousands of years at the Icefjord Centre in Ilulissat on the West Coast. Colorful Ilulissat is also home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, which offers the staggering sight of a bay filled with floating icebergs. In general, nature is the main event in Greenland, with other highlights including whale watching, dog sledding and Aurora Borealis sightings. —FS
Uzbekistan
Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum in Samarkand is among the rich religious and cultural sites in Uzbekistan.(Tuul & Bruno Morandi/The Image Bank RF/Getty Images)
Before the pandemic, Uzbekistan was poised to be the next big thing in travel thanks to a series of ambitious reforms to transform the country into a world-class destination.
Now, its time has finally come.
Offering visa-free access to citizens of 86 countries, Uzbekistan’s untouched landscapes and well-preserved architecture are ready and waiting to awe visitors.
For greater insights into Uzbekistan’s position at the heart of the fabled Silk Road, a historic trade route that ran from China and India to the Mediterranean, the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva await. Meanwhile, the mountainous Uzbek village of Sentob — about 3.5 hours from Samarkand — was added to UNESCO’s list of “Best Tourism Villages” in 2023. It’s been cited for its commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on nature, organic food and eco and mountain tourism.
Getting around the country is easy thanks to the high-speed Afrosiyob Express train, connecting capital Tashkent with Samarkand and Bukhara. —KC
If you feel like everyone you know is going to the same handful of places on vacation this summer, it might be because they are. A new study from Price4Limo breaks down the top vacation destinations by state; revealing some overarching trends and surprising details about summer 2023 travel. Overall, the top domestic destination for US travelers is Las Vegas, Nevada while the number-one international destination is Paris, France.
One of the interesting but surprising details from the data is that Floridians don’t have much interest in heading to beaches or tropical destinations; their top summer domestic destination is New York City, and the top international destination is Paris. Georgia residents want to go to Miami and Jamaica, and Nevadans want to go to San Diego and Paris. People in Oregon are planning trips to Seattle and Florence, Italy, while New Yorkers are jetting to Miami and London, England.
Most states are choosing major cities in nearby states as their domestic destinations of choice—with Florida and New York being stand-out exceptions. Overall, 75% of respondents to the survey said they planned on only taking domestic trips.
“Though the percentage of international travelers was small, their destinations covered the globe and included cities on every continent except Antarctica,” the study states. “Some popular destinations were Cancun, Mexico; Edinburgh, Scotland; and Johannesburg, South Africa.”
You can check out the complete map, based on a survey of 1,000 people plus an analysis of Google search data, below:
About 40 percent of the 40.37 million outbound trips made by mainland Chinese tourists in the first six months of 2023 were to Macao, according to the state-backed China Tourism Academy – a research unit of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The academy’s Big Data Report on Outbound Tourism in the First Half of 2023, cited yesterday in a local government statement, suggests that mainland travelers made some 16.14 million visits to Macao between January and June.
It added that Macao, Hong Kong and Taiwan accounted for almost 80 percent of all trips made by mainland travelers during the period, with Macao responsible for just over half of those visits.
If verified, the figures would make the territory of China’s most popular destination for outbound travel. However, numbers given by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) last month suggests that “cumulative visitor arrivals” from all markets stood at just 11.6 million for the first half of the year.
[See more:Airport expansion set to kick off in 2024]
In response to the academy’s report, the local government said it was “pleased to see mainland tourists choosing to come to Macao” but said that it would “spare no effort” in “advancing diversification of the city’s tourism industry.”
The MGTO has made no secret of its wish to reduce Macao’s overwhelming dependence on the mainland Chinese market and says it is launching initiatives to revive long-haul markets.
Data compiled by the Statistics and Census Service shows that foreign passport holders are represented less than four percent of the visitors to Macao during the first five months of 2023.
Holidays with family are usually done by visiting amusement parks. In fact, family holidays can be done by visiting accommodation that offers various tourist facilities and activities. Especially for those of you who already have children, of course you need a tourist spot that won’t make them bored quickly.
Time Out, the best entertainment, lifestyle and travel guide site, has just released 10 Best Family Tourism in the World 2024. This destination is recommended by tourism experts involving many readers.
Most of them are tourist attractions for refreshing with family, because it is far from urban areas. Consisting of various accommodations complete with facilities and activities that can be done by children and adults.
Launching from Time Out, following is the list the best family tour in the world 2024.
1. Sani Resort, Greece
Sani Resort, Greece (tripadvisor.com)
Sani Resort has various facilities suitable for family holidays. There are cabanas overlooking the beach, adult and child-friendly swimming pools, a luxurious spa, and a number of restaurants and bars.
Sports-loving kids can join a football or tennis academy, while adventurous kids can take part in a Bear Grylls camp or around the fields. In fact, there is a service baby sitter at Babewatch Beach for free.
Sani Resort also holds a music festival and serves food every summer. This place will be a “paradise” for families who want to quality time without boredom.
2. Center Parcs Les Trois Forets, France
Center Parcs Les Trois Forets, France (housity.net)
Center Parcs Les Trois Forets, France, is intended as a family destination, starting with a beautiful forest setting, a variety of fun activities, modernly designed accommodation and a gourmet restaurant.
You can take a golf cart and cruise around the resort. Play exciting rides at the aquatic center, get a massage at the spa, and play mini golf with the kids. The stunning natural setting will create a calm and cheerful mood.
3. Blackberry Wood, England
Blackberry Wood, England(tripadvisor.co.uk)
Blackberry Wood, England, is located in a photogenic and attractive forest area. There are unique accommodations that are worth visiting, starting from the Routemaster, a helicopter-like building, a curved cabin, a pair of tree houses.
In terms of activities, you can climb Ditchling Beacon hill from Blackberry Wood, with stunning views. Apart from that, there is also the Jolly Sportsman pub which serves dishes cooked in a special way.
4. Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia
Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia (booking.com)
Malaysia has clear waters and white sandy beaches that attract many. However, this tourism still escapes the attention of some people who want to go on holiday.
There is Pangkor Laut Resort on the small island of Pangkor Laut, which feels like a piece of heaven. There are villas at the top of the hill, complete with play areas, sports fields, infinity pool, and fun water sports. It’s a great place to relax on the beach sand or explore the island.
5. Wilderness, Botswana
Wilderness, Botswana (wildernessdestinations.com)
Wilderness is a locally run eco-friendly safari company that runs a number of luxury camps. They will serve visitors who want to experience adventure, both on land and in water.
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Editor’s picks
Interestingly, there is the Okavango Delta, which is the largest inland river delta in the world. Its vast waters are home to crocodiles and hippos, and lions and cheetahs often hunt in the surrounding area.
Also read: Indonesia is on the list of the top 10 favorite destinations for world tourists
6. Windjammer Landing, Saint Lucia
Windjammer Landing, Saint Lucia (tripadvisor.com)
Windjammer Landing is the best family-friendly resort in Saint Lucia. There are various accommodation options, ranging from conventional rooms to magnificent villas with private infinity pool, and views of the Caribbean Sea.
Uniquely, there is a coral reef inside the hotel for snorkeling and water activities, including water skiing and paddleboarding. Apart from that, you can take the cable car to the rainforest and return zipline, if you and your family want to go on an adventure.
7. San Diego, United States
San Diego, United States (tripadvisor.com)
San Diego has beautiful beaches and amusement parks that won’t make children bored quickly. Plus, there are a variety of child-friendly activities that are also suitable for adults. Visitors can see the animals, play in the waterfront fountain, and admire the towering Lego statues.
8. Glamping Villa Hanz, Japan
Glamping Villa Hanz, Japan (gv-hanz.com)
Glamping Villa Hanz is located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan’s main island, which has abundant hot springs, the iconic Mount Fuji and resort areas.
This place is suitable for quality time with family in the middle of nature. In fact, there is no restaurant there, you can order food from the available menu, then cook it yourself.
Not only that, you can soak in Japanese-style hot springs, cycling, archery, walking in the forest, and canoeing on Lake Kawaguchiko.
9. Villa Lena, Italy
Villa Lena, Italy (booking.com)
Villa Lena is a Tuscan hilltop area that has a modern hotel and artists’ residences. Visitors can stay in one of the traditional buildings, explore the surrounding area, and even stop by to see artists at work in the studio or main villa.
They have cots and high chairs in every room, kitchen, swimming pool and playground. You can also hire a nanny for the children. Don’t miss exploring the surrounding forests, vegetable gardens and extensive flower gardens in this area.
10. Padma Resort Ubud, Bali
Padma Hotel, Ubud, Bali (tripadvisor.com)
Padma Resort Ubud is a family-friendly luxury resort that focuses on nature, sustainability and the rich traditions of Bali. The location is quite far from the busy tourist center of Bali.
The main attraction of Padma Resort Ubud is infinity pool 89 meters long which offers views of the river valley. There is also a shallow children’s swimming pool. Visitors can also do various interesting activities here, including archery, fishing, golf, cycling and yoga.
That’s the list of the best family tours in the world 2024. Hopefully it can be an inspiration for those of you who are looking for a destination for a family holiday, okay?
Also Read: Bali is the Most Popular Destination for Summer Vacations 2024
