21 minute read
24 Places to visit in 2024
Far-flung destinations, must-see icons, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, cosy weekends away—what does your 2024 travel bucket list look like? Here, 24 hotspots we’re visiting in 2024
COMPLIED BY INSPIRING VACATIONS' TRAVEL EXPERTS
Whether you’re looking to connect with nature in Norway, tick off Italy’s 59 UNESCO sites, catch a new Olympic sport in Paris, or bask in the Final Frontier, Inspiring Vacations’ magazine travel experts round up the 24 destinations (in no particular order) that need to be on your travel bucket list. Here’s to a year filled with inspiring travel and joy-inducing moments.
1. AUSTRALIA
Few countries are as culturally rich or geographically blessed as the Land Down Under. If 2024 is the year for your Australian adventure (or if this is home and you’re wondering where to explore next), South Australia’s Kangaroo Island has just nabbed the number two spot in Lonely Planet’s 2024 Top Regions Hotlist, ahead of Tuscany at number three. Still recovering from the bushfires in 2000, Kangaroo Island was chosen because of its ecotourism efforts, abundant local produce and native wildlife, and this being Australia, home to some of the nation’s most pristine beaches. Post-fires, the highly anticipated reopening of sustainable luxury hotel, Southern Ocean Lodge took place in December. Later this year, its neighbour, The Cliffs Kangaroo Island golf course will be unveiled. Set atop 500-millionyear-old cliffs with unobstructed views across the ocean, this new addition will position Kangaroo Island as one of the world’s best golf destinations. If golf isn’t your activity of choice, Australia is the adventure playground you imagine it to be and more; there’s plenty on offer, especially for those inspired travellers who live to venture off the beaten path. One thing is for certain: your first trip around Australia won’t be your last.
2. NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand is no stranger to the spotlight. Many dream of touring the dramatic landscapes of this Oceanic nation, from glacier-carved fjords to rugged mountain ranges and brilliant blue lakes. In the Land of the Long White Cloud, natural beauty thrives and cities, while cosmopolitan, harmonise with the surrounding scenery. The country's two islands offer distinct experiences, with the north hosting Auckland and the capital Wellington, and the south home to adventure hub Queenstown—birthplace of the bungee. In 2024, this far-flung beauty is worth ticking off your bucket list: nothing beats escaping a Northern Hemisphere winter for sunshine, but you’ll be rewarded no matter when the visit: autumn means harvest season and beautiful colours, snow-capped adventures and spectacular stargazing is on the menu for winter, and spring equals hiking and fishing. No matter where your New Zealand journey takes you, be sure to learn about the Māoritanga (Māori culture) and heritage along the way.
3. SOUTH KOREA
South Korea’s image as a thriving tech haven isn't wrong but there’s so much more on offer. And those in-the-know have noticed: South Korea is attracting more visitors than ever before. Its fast-paced streets are seeped in 5,000 years of culture and intricate history, while over 80% of its geography is mountainous, making it a dynamic destination for hikers. Even within the bustling modern capital of Seoul, there's history to be found at every turn: ultra-modern skyscrapers, lively markets and traditional Buddhist temples. For a taste of the traditional side, head to UNESCO-listed Andong Hahoe village, or jump across the Korea Strait and you’ll land on Jeju-do, South Korea’s answer to Hawaii. Set to open in late 2024, the Seoul Robot and AI Museum will showcase science and technology through interactive exhibits featuring artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Robots used in the museum's construction will participate in day-to-day operations, such as leading tours and guiding visitors through exhibits, while renovations at the Busan Museum of Art begin this year and will reopen with more of a focus on high-tech features like evolving 3D projections.
4. INDIA
A land of vibrance and colour, of rich heritage and unexpected delights, India is a feast (and occasionally a full-frontal assault) for the senses. Step off the plane and prepare for a sensory overload: blaring car horns, lively markets, and aromatic spices that tickle your nose. Between its delicious cuisine, varying by region and season, and it's phenomenal ancient structures—the Taj Mahal and the Amer Fort to name just two— India offers something for every inspired traveller. And whether you dream of wandering the pink streets of Jaipur or watching a sunrise wash over the Ganges in sacred Varanasi, India will grip you with full force and refuse to let go.
5. SRI LANKA
Long overlooked in favour of colourful India and beachy southeast Asia, Sri Lanka is finally getting the attention it deserves. Despite its small size, it has all the hallmarks of a traveller’s paradise: exquisite cuisine, world-class beaches and national parks as animal-rich as any in Africa. Word of its charm is spreading as fast as the country continues to evolve, so 2024 is the perfect time to explore. The island’s compact size makes Sri Lanka an ideal destination, especially for travellers who enjoy a bit of adventure. The Pekoe Trail is a new 300 km-long network of hiking routes which snakes its way through the highlands. It’s made up of 22 stages which can be completed in short sections or as part of a multi-day experience taking you through an eclectic mix of hilltowns, tea plantations, remote villages, sanctuaries, viewpoints and adventurers of all ages should add it to their hit list.
6. CAMBODIA
The small country of Cambodia is jam-packed with heritage, culture and beautiful landscapes. Relics of this resilient nation’s chequered history abound, from remnants of French colonial rule, ruins of glorious ancient kingdoms and sombre monuments paying tribute to the suffering inflicted by the reign of Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. If a visit to the magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat gives off an Indiana Jones vibe, you’re not far off: Ta Prohm was the filming location for the 2001 movie, Tomb Raider. Outside of the nation’s renowned ancient treasure, there’s much to please the curious traveller: beautiful beaches and islands, lush jungles, welcoming locals and delectable local cuisine.
7. CHINA
Inspiring Vacations’ first post-pandemic tours to China will depart in February and we couldn’t be more excited to see this powerhouse return! With its myriad of ancient sights, cultural delights and breathtaking scenery, China should be on every bucket list. Whether you’re wandering the ancient hutongs of Beijing or walking down the Bund in Shanghai, China balances tradition and modernity perfectly. And if you’re craving a glimpse of the Middle Kingdom’s natural beauty—or wondering if it even exists—you’re in for a treat. From the lush mountain ranges of central China, to the desert dunes of the north and the tropical beaches in the south, China truly ticks every box. If your tour includes a stop in Hong Kong, this island knows how to embrace both traditional culture and western influence, be it in the architecture, attitude or cuisine. Four new restaurants were added to the upcoming Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau (taking the total to an impressive 78) and the iconic Tai Pak Floating Restaurant will reopen later this year. One thing is guaranteed: no one goes hungry on a visit to China!
8. THAILAND
Beloved for its beach culture and tasty cuisine, Thailand is one of our newer destinations, but it’s long been a beloved escape for Australian tourists. This wonderfully diverse country nestled between Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia, fulfils every preconception you may have: powder-white beaches, golden stupas, street carts selling tropical fruit and bustling markets. Long-boat around the eastern islands, where craggy limestone karsts jut from impossibly blue waters, or head north to Chiang Mai—former capital of the Lanna Kingdom and Thailand’s spiritual heart. From top to bottom, Thailand captures the heart of all who visit.
9. JAPAN
The Land of the Rising Sun never ceases to amaze visitors but if you haven’t visited yet, don’t lose heart. Travel insiders predict that 2024 will be an ideal time time to visit for several reasons: 2023 saw three years' worth of visitors descend on the country post-pandemic, and in 2025, crowds will likely increase again thanks to Osaka hosting the World Expo from April 13. So, if you’re wanting a Japan jaunt, 2024 is the time. This geographically blessed country is spectacular year-round and easy to navigate. From sights to scenery and fivestar fare, it’s the ultimate all-rounder, especially for first-time travellers to Asia. Cherry blossom season (sakura), usually falling in March and April, is a particularly popular time to visit. If you miss the sakura season, take in the autumn foliage instead. Once September hits, the focus shifts towards tracking the progress of the leaves turning red (koyo zensen), and much like the pink blooming sakura, the timing of the autumnal colour change depends on geography and mother nature. As a general rule, the wave of colour begins in the north in Hokkaido and works its way down to Kyoto in the south from late November to early December. Regardless of the season or reason, don’t bypass Japan in 2024.
10. VIETNAM
For a country not even the size of California, Vietnam has pretty much everything you could ask for when seeking out a vacation that will have you yearning to return without breaking the bank: lush green paddy fields, tropical jungle, white sandy beaches, amazing food and people. One of our newest destinations, Vietnam, will undoubtedly tick your travel boxes. Atop of any Vietnam bucket list should be a junk boat excursion on Halong Bay. Recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994, there are more than 1,900 islands creating magnificent scenery in one of the most unique ecosystems and geological formations in the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Vietnam is ready to welcome you this year.
11. FRANCE
France is so much more than Paris, but Paris is always a good idea and in 2024, especially for sports fans, it's a really good idea. For the first time in 100 years, Paris will host the Summer Olympic Games (July 26-August 11) and the Paralympic Games (August 28-September 8), where 15 million spectators are expected to descend on the city especially for the event. If this gives you 15 million reasons to give France a miss this year—but why you would want to skip seeing beach volleyball underneath the Eiffel Tower is beyond us—visitors will be able to reap the benefits in years to come. The capital’s council is aiming to make the city more climate-friendly with the creation of 26 km-worth of cycle paths and adapting buildings and roads—in total there are 1,700 projects. Four new sports will be debuting, too: breaking, skateboarding, surfing, sports climbing. Paris 2024 aside, France has long been the most visited destination in the world and for good reason: iconic landmarks, gourmet food and wine, world class art—the list goes on. If France isn’t on your bucket list, what are you waiting for?
12. ITALY
Cobbled streets and thousand-year-old ruins at every turn, stunning coastline and mouthwatering food—there’s only one word to describe Italy: meravigliosa! Its cities sing with culture and history, boasting the world’s most famous art works by the likes of Michelangelo and Da Vinci, while its beaches stun with typical Mediterranean flair. Wander the streets of Rome with a gelato in hand and watch almost 3,000 years of history dance before your eyes, head north to Cinque Terre for colourful houses perched upon rugged hills, south to the whitewashed towns of Puglia or the turquoise beaches of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. With an astounding 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites— more than any other country—it’s little wonder this Mediterranean gem is one of the most visited nations in the world and la dolce vita will continue in 2024. For the first time in its 120year history, the Tour de France 2024 will start in Florence on June 29.
13. GREECE
A land of ancient mythology and archaeological wonder, Greece is undoubtedly one of the most influential countries in the world. With an astoundingly long list of famous people—Homer, Aristotle and Alexander the Great, to name a few—and a profound impact on all facets of modern society, it’s clear how the country came to be known as the Cradle of Democracy. Today, Greece lures travellers with its exotic backdrops, beautiful islands, and lively culture. For foodies, Greek cuisine is a mouthwatering showcase of Mediterranean produce, while beach lovers can bathe in the Aegean’s crystalline waters and bake on its golden sand. From the streets of historic Athens to the peak of Mount Olympus and across to the white-washed buildings of Mykonos, every corner of Greece radiates charm and tradition.
14. TÜRKIYE
The sprawling nation of Türkiye is an enchanting country, stretching across two continents and has been a place of enormous historical significance, hosting groups from the Hittites to the Greeks and acting as capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Türkiye’s buzzy capital is experiencing a resurgence of life along the Bosphorus, thanks in part to the Galataport, the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal with a pedestrian promenade. And don’t miss a visit to the plush Ciragan Palace Kempinski which was redesigned last year with Ottoman-era grandeur in mind, complete with mother-of-pearl furniture. Everywhere you look, from cosmopolitan Istanbul to the cobbled streets of Antalya’s old town Kaleiçi, you’ll see the past and present collide in a fascinating fusion like no other.
15. CROATIA
This Balkan beauty is not new to the spotlight, but behind its famous harbours and terracotta-roofed villages, Croatia’s ancient charm shines and with every visit you discover something new. While the Republic of Croatia is just a few decades old, archaeological evidence traces civilisation back to the Palaeolithic era. Despite being tossed between empires and ruled by foreign powers throughout much of its history, the country has retained its traditions and proud spirit. Croatia is well-known for its sparkling coastline, but the country is no one-trick pony, offering dramatic diversity from region to region. Tour the Dalmatian city of Dubrovnik and its iconic city walls (Game of Thrones fans rejoice), swim in the emerald lakes of Krka National Park, get lost in the AustroHungarian streets of the capital Zagreb, or eat your way across the pastoral plains of central Istria. No matter where your Croatian adventure takes you, your only regret will be not visiting sooner.
16. ICELAND
From the glistening ice caves of Vatnajökull to the thundering Dettifoss Waterfall and the bubbling mud pools of the Askja Caldera, Iceland is a veritable patchwork of dramatic landscapes. This far northern country has Nordic roots, but historians believe Celts from the British Isles were among the first to arrive, back in the 7th century. Today, Icelanders are immensely proud of their island nation, its lively culture, unique tongue and quirks. And if Netflix’s Eurovision movie (The Song of the Fire Saga) was what piqued your interest in Iceland, we applaud you (and the locals are as quirky as you’d imagine). Despite being smaller than the US state of Colorado and home to less than half a million people, Iceland has a strong case for the title of world’s most scenic country. Thanks to its location in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the country is a geothermal hotspot (move over Japan) brimming with volcanoes and geysers.
17. SWITZERLAND
Switzerland is all about dramatic mountain scapes, idyllic villages and formidable natural beauty—plus chocolate, clocks and cheese, of course. Made up of 26 different cantons (administrative region) and four official languages, the country is a stunning landlocked nation sandwiched between three glorious European neighbours: France, Italy and Germany. Its cities exude class, with clean streets and historic architecture at every turn, while its small towns are so picturesque they resemble postcards. Explore the iconic Fraumünster church on the Zürich waterfront, eat Fondue Moitié-Moitié (half Gruyère cheese, half Vacherin cheese) in alpine St. Moritz, stay in a romantic châteaux tucked into the mountains or go paragliding in Interlaken. Switzerland is ideal for adventurers and leisure travellers alike.
18. NORWAY
For lovers of nature and remarkable beauty, Norway is the ultimate destination. Tucked above Europe, this Scandinavian nation is home to scenery so magical it looks otherworldly. Watch the celestial Northern Lights dance across skies in Tromsø, wander the colourful streets of the Lofoten Islands, lead a fleet of huskies across snowy terrain and warm up with akevitt (spirit flavoured with herbs)—Norway’s national drink. Need more reasons to add Norway to your 2024 travel bucket list? Bodø, known as the gateway to the Lofoten Islands, will be a 2024 European Capital of Culture (alongside Bad Ischl in Austria and Tartu in Estonia) and if you want to chase the Northern Lights, the 2024/2025 season will be hard to beat according to the Norwegian Space Center. The cycle of solar activity—period of significant Northern Lights activity—rises and falls over a period of approximately 11 years; should averages play out as expected, the next solar maximum should occur this year. What are you waiting for?
19. ANTARCTICA
Long known as the Last Frontier on Earth, Antarctica has many accolades. It’s the driest, coldest and windiest continent, it has no native population, nor countries within it, and it’s home to an astounding 90% of the world’s ice. Its most recent accolade? Named the number one adventure destination in the world by luxury travel advisor group Virtuoso. Fascinatingly, its landscape is also dotted with dozens of volcanic peaks— some of which are still active. Its wilderness at its most raw, and today, Antarctica is more accessible than ever. Navigate the Drake Passage, spot penguins, and follow in the footsteps of the world’s great explorers as you journey across glaciers and ice sheets. The great white continent is a land of wonder and unlike anywhere else on the planet.
20. ALASKA
Dubbed the Final Frontier, Alaska is teeming with natural wonders, from glaciers to mountains and volcanoes and if a cruise to Alaska is on your bucket list, you’re in luck. Cruising is back in a big way, and this US gem is leading the way: experts predict 1.65 million cruise travellers will pass through the Inside Passage this year alone. Skagway, a port that’s home to White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, will unveil a new 550-foot floating pier at the beginning of the 2024 season. Although Alaska has been a part of the United States since it was sold by Russia in 1867, and a designated state since 1959, its history stretches back millennia. The best way to learn about the rich heritage and traditions of Alaska’s indigenous people is by visiting one of the state’s museums, such as the Anchorage Museum or the Alaska Native Heritage Centre, both of which are included on our Alaska itineraries.
21. CANADA
Canada is one of the world’s premier destinations: endless peaks, breathtaking wilderness, and energetic cities dot the country’s colossal landscape. Each of its 10 provinces offers visitors something special: dive into the Rockies of southwestern Canada for a glimpse of rugged mountains and glacial lakes, traverse the untamed western Yukon in search of Canadian history and wildlife, head to Ontario’s roaring Niagara Falls, or go east to cosmopolitan Quebec for architecture as grand as any found in Europe. No matter where you land, you’ll be blown away by both the sights and the hospitality. Every aspect of the Great White North is bound to inspire and 2024 will follow suit.
22. SPAIN
Sun-drenched Spain nabbed the top spot on Lonely Planet’s 2024 sustainable travel list thanks to its efforts in promoting yearround travel, revitalising the country’s rural areas, and the addition of new cycle paths, electric buses and train routes. A treat for the heart and mind, Spain is remarkably charismatic, unapologetically vibrant and always a good time regardless of the season. From August to October, the only place to be for sailing fans is Barcelona when the vibrant hotspot plays host to the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup. Beyond events, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan dream, alive with history and Catalonian charm. This stunning coastal spot on the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula has everything a traveller could wish for, including beaches, markets, worldclass eateries and remarkable architecture. Many flock to the city at the first sign of summer, but why wait? Barcelona offers around 300 days of sunshine every year.
23. ARGENTINA
Known as the ‘Paris of South America’, a visit to the capital Buenos Aires is similar to visiting a European capital, with notable differences of course. From music to architecture, culture and food, Italy and Spain (just to name a couple) have influenced many facets of Argentine culture and turned it into a melting pot of cultures we see today. Once you’ve wined, dined and danced your way through the cosmopolitan streets of the capital, visit the thundering Iguazu Falls in the north, or head south into gaucho (cowboy) country, where grassy plains dominate the landscape. And make sure one of the world’s great natural regions, the Argentinian Patagonia, is on your list. Think: rare wildlife, cactus-covered steppes (treeless plains) and rugged glaciers. You’ll be planning your next trip before finishing your first.
24. SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is an incredibly diverse country—its landscape, people and culture are like nowhere else (and most assumptions are blown out of the water). If there is one word that sums up South Africa, it is diversity. What other country has 11 official languages, ever-changing, dramatic landscapes, and a multicultural population that draws on traditions from all over the world? With an area of 1.22 million square metres, this is a giant land of sweeping savannahs, incredible wildlife, soaring mountain ranges, rugged coastlines and bustling mega-cities. With an astounding array of biodiversity and the most mammals found in any African safari park, Kruger National Park is legendary and a must-visit.
