Looking to get off the tried and trite tourist trail? Forgo frantic crowds and selfie sticks for culture, scenery and adventure? Then set sights on these less-traveled gems perfect for making 2020 memories.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
War-torn in the 1990s, Mostar has healed into an enchanting destination. Cross the iconic arched Stari Most bridge over emerald river waters that twist through town. Wander cobblestone lanes and timeworn Turkish quarters. Hike mountain trails for stunning vistas. From scenic ruins to cozy cafes, Mostar overflows with Balkan charm.
Belize
Forget overdeveloped Cancun. Those seeking active tropical getaways should target unspoiled Belize. Revel in Mayan ruins surrounded by jungle, barrier reef diving and fishing, rappelling mountain waterfalls, and wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans. Belize offers all the swaying palms and rum cocktails without the resort-town fatigue.
Sapa, Vietnam
This former French hill station provides a refreshing retreat from Vietnam’s urban coro. Trek through rice terraces, visit traditional Hmong tribes, enjoy epic mountain views and feast on local cuisine. Backpacker-friendly Sapa makes an accessible foray into northern Vietnam’s captivating rural culture and scenery.
Malta
Sunny Mediterranean Malta dazzles with 7,000 years of history. Wander honey-hued fortified towns and temples older than the pyramids. Go snorkeling and diving in translucent waters. Gorge on fresh seafood, wines and pastries between lazing on limestone cliffs. Malta captivates those seeking warm weather, culture and cuisine.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Skip Bangkok for northern Thailand’s welcoming oasis. Browse colorful markets and temples before cooking classes, jungle zip lines or elephant encounters. Use Chiang Mai as a base to explore hill tribe villages, nature preserves and foodie/coffee tours. Thailand’s “Rose of the North” entices urban escapists.
Barbados
Barbados enchants with lush rainforests, rum distilleries, cricket pitches, horse racing, cliff-diving shorelines and British-colonial architecture, all infused with Caribbean charm. Try the exquisite local cuisine, watersports and nightlife of Bridgetown, then unwind at pirate hideaway Animal Flower Cave or Farley Hill National Park. Sophisticated “Little England” seduces.
Puglia, Italy
Italophiles tired of Rome, Florence and Venice should head south to Puglia’s whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves and hundreds of miles of Mediterranean coastline mixing Italian culture with Greek influences. Sample pasta, orecchiette, Primitivo wine and gnocchi while touring medieval architecture and ancient ruins. Puglia brings Mediterranean magic without the masses.
Wherever your travels take you, remember the joy lies not in crossing destinations off a list, but in lifting the soul through new people, flavors and adventures. In 2020, change your focus from where to why and how. Let these less-known gems open your eyes, challenge your thinking and ignite your spirit of discovery.