From pilots and travel photographers to train enthusiasts and tour guides, seasoned travelers share their favorite destinations across the globe. These hidden gems and iconic spots promise unforgettable experiences for your next getaway.
Discover Wayag, Indonesia: An Isolated Paradise
Wayag in Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago is a jaw-dropping destination known for its limestone karsts and pristine white beaches. Michael Travers from SeaTrek Sailing Adventures highlights its untouched beauty. Accessible only by boat, Wayag’s lookout point offers breathtaking views after a challenging climb through dense forests.
Explore Egypt Without the Crowds
Egypt, a land steeped in history, is best explored during quieter times. Geoffrey Kent, founder of Abercrombie & Kent, recalls the surreal experience of visiting iconic sites like Abu Simbel and the Great Pyramid of Giza with minimal crowds. It’s a rare opportunity to soak in the ancient wonders in near solitude.
Soak in Tbilisi’s Sulfur Baths, Georgia
Tbilisi’s Abanotubani district is a hidden gem for those seeking East-meets-West culture. Photojournalist Sarah Freeman describes its low-domed bathhouses with natural sulfurous waters, offering a rejuvenating soak paired with traditional massages. The experience is as therapeutic as it is cultural.
Witness Namibia’s Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast in Namibia combines rugged desert beauty with wildlife adventures. Lucy Jackson from Lightfoot Travel recalls flying over the Namib Desert dunes that meet the Atlantic Ocean. This hauntingly beautiful landscape is home to giraffes, elephants, and shipwrecks.
Chase the Northern Lights in Canada’s Yukon
Canada’s Yukon Territory offers an unparalleled view of the Aurora Borealis. With free entry to Canada’s national parks for its 150th anniversary, Hannah Tydeman-Klassen of Curio Trips recommends this magical light show before it enters a dormant phase.
Spot Rare Wildlife in Brazil’s Minas Gerais
Minas Gerais, Brazil, boasts both cultural treasures and natural wonders. Matthew LaPolice of Absolute Travel suggests Reserva do Ibitipoca, where restored 18th-century farmhouses offer a base to explore untouched wilderness and spot rare woolly spider monkeys.
Find Serenity in Vilanculos, Mozambique
Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse fell in love with Mozambique’s Vilanculos, where white sandy beaches and sandbars emerge at low tide. The untouched beauty of the coastline, coupled with friendly locals, makes it a must-visit destination for tranquility seekers.
Hike and Explore Greenland’s Arctic Beauty
Greenland’s summer landscapes reveal rolling hills, green tundra, and abundant wildlife. Adventure blogger Matthew Karsten recommends trekking the Arctic Circle Trail or walking on the Kangerlussuaq ice cap for an experience that blends natural beauty with adventure.
Experience Eco-Luxury in Kenya
Segera Retreat in Kenya’s Laikipia County is a haven for nature lovers. This eco-friendly retreat, set on 50,000 acres, offers wildlife encounters and a chance to connect with nature in luxurious solitude. Founder Jochen Zeitz’s conservation efforts add an inspiring touch to this unique getaway.
Embark on a Train Adventure from Belgrade to Montenegro
Mark Smith of Seat61 raves about the train journey from Belgrade to Montenegro. This route is an engineering marvel with tunnels, viaducts, and jaw-dropping views of the Montenegrin mountains—all for just $22.
Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, historic landmarks, or rugged landscapes, these expert-recommended destinations promise adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring beauty. Make your next holiday an unforgettable journey!
