The world is full of breathtaking destinations to travel to and enjoy. While some of these locations are remote, other locales are easily accessible for most. Reports indicate many Americans are looking to increase their travel time in 2024. If that’s you, here are 22 incredible destinations to consider visiting in the near future.
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Costa Rica
If magical, misty mountains sound like your version of paradise, you’ll want to prioritize a trip to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica.
This beautiful biological reserve puts ecotourism on display. There are thousands of plant, bird and other animals to see around winding jungle paths and elevated suspension bridges that make you feel like you are walking in the clouds.
Tokyo, Japan
Is relaxing and recharging not something you’re looking for in travel this year? If that’s you, consider adding Tokyo to your travel list.
Tokyo is a mega city that always has something to do. Known for its anime, you can enjoy that to taking in the brightly lit skyscrapers, kabuki, temples, and so much more.
The Azores
Nestled about 900 miles off the Portugal coast, the Azores are absolutely beautiful. Steep cliffs, stunning ocean views, lush valleys and tumbling waterfalls dot the island.
If you’re up for an adventure, the Azores would make a fitting one, especially when combined with a trip to Portugal.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Home to the longest coral reef in the world, The Great Barrier Reef in Australia sprawls across more than 1,400 miles. Dive the reef that can be seen from space and get lost in this underwater marvel.
Use a travel rewards credit card to travel hack your way to cheaper plane tickets, which can comprise a chunk of the cost of this trip.
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
This marvel of human engineering is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. While millennia of weathering has worn away some of the Pyramids of Giza, these gems are still mostly intact. Dating back to 2,560 BC, these ancient structures will inspire you.
Also, if you’ve only ever seen them by day, you’re missing out. Make sure to book a stargazing tour near these magnificent structures.
Petra, Jordan
Get transported back in time exploring this ancient city carved right into rose-colored cliffs. The UNESCO World Heritage site delivers a mesmerizing blend of architectural wonder, including the Treasury, which invites visitors to uncover the secrets of the Nabatean civilization.
The Forbidden City, China
Step into a world of imperial grandeur in the Forbidden City. Located within Beijing, this sprawling complex echoes centuries of Chinese history.
One peek at its intricate architecture and rich cultural significance will tell you why its been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a must-see destination for any student of world history.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty and stunning power of Victoria Falls. Affectionately termed, “Smoke that Thunders,” these waterfalls located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia form the largest curtain of falling water in the world.
The Rainbow Mountains of China
Visit Earth’s paint palette in the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park in northwest China. These stunning mountains aren’t just a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they’re absolutely breathtaking.
The Redwoods, California, USA
From the southern Redwoods near San Francisco to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park near the Oregon border, these tall trees are absolutely worth seeing before you die. As you breathe in the lush forest air and ensconce yourself in peaceful quiet, you’ll be resting among giants that were alive during the height of the Roman Empire.
Consider a AAA membership to cover potential towing costs if you succumb to a flat tire on the road, or to snag discounts on hotels, rental cars and more.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA
Immerse yourself in a world of almost surreal beauty in Antelope Canyon, Arizona. The light and shadows here have drawn innumerable photographers to capture its unique sandstone formations, some of which you may have seen on a screensaver or two already.
The Taj Mahal, India
One of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and a memorial to one man’s eternal love for his wife, the Taj Mahal is a site to behold. Its gleaming white marble, intricate details, and symmetrical perfection beckon visitors to bask in its timeless grandeur.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Hidden away amidst the petrifying peaks of the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu stands as an enigmatic testament to the ancient Inca civilization.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this adventurous spot pleases visitors with stunning mountain views, intricate stone architecture and an air of mystery shrouding an ancient citadel.
The Matterhorn, Switzerland
The alpine resort town of Zermatt is nestled at the base of one of the world’s most iconic mountains. See the peak that inspired Walt Disney to recreate it in Southern California and take in all the slopes and glitzy ski resorts this stunning Swiss town has to offer.
Bwindi Forest, Uganda
Do you love mountain gorillas? If you’d like to see them in their natural habitat, a visit to the impenetrable Bwindi Forest in Uganda should be on your list. In addition to the lovable primates, there are hundreds of bird and butterfly species to spot.
Rotorua, New Zealand
This captivating city in north central New Zealand showcases mother nature’s geothermal wonders in all their splendor. With bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and vibrant Maori culture, Rotorua offers a unique and immersive experience.
You can even try whitewater rafting!
Blue Lagoon
How does visiting a geothermal spa in Iceland sound? The Blue Lagoon, in southwestern Iceland, is in a lava field 5 km from Grindavik.
The waters are often described as a translucent blue, thanks to the silica-rich water that sources it. Interestingly, the lagoon is manmade.
Atacama Desert, Chile
If stargazing captivates you, a trip to Chile’s Atacama Desert will mesmerize you. Home to Earth’s clearest skies, this alpine desert is the world’s driest. With no cloud cover and a powerful telescope, you’ll see farther into space than you ever imagined.
Ciudad Perdida, Columbia
Known as the “Lost City,” this gem that’s accessible only by foot is fit for any adventurer. One of the most amazing ancient ruins still available to visit, this city’s terraces aren’t nearly as crowded as Machu Picchu, but are just as satisfying.
Cappadocia, Turkey
This captivating region of Turkey is so mesmerizing that it looks like it was plucked right out of a fairy tale. Knowing for towering rock formations affectionately called “fairy chimneys,” Cappadocia, Turkey boasts of ancient underground cities, hot air balloon rides, and cave dwellings.
Fairbanks, Alaska
If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska should be, too. Known as the “Last Frontier,” this rugged destination offers breathtaking wilderness and fun adventures from dog sledding to exploring pristine national parks.
Glacier National Park
Are you on a limited budget, or don’t want to travel internationally? Glacier National Park is a fantastic alternative that is within the contiguous United States.
The national park is one of the top-visited parks in the U.S. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting it multiple times, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a draw. It’s full of mountains, glaciers, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. If you want to get outside, breath in the mountain air, and enjoy creation, Glacier should be near the top of your list.
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I’m Nicole Schmoll – a master’s-educated professional writer, mompreneur, and co-founder of Frugal Rules.
As a freelance copywriter in Omaha, I still believe that writing is an artistic expression. Every time I strike the keys, I intend to evoke a response from my listeners. I left my full-time career as a senior copywriter for an insurance agency to start my own freelance writing business.
I love watching and writing about TV (and how to stream it!)
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