Are you looking for a new or unusual vacation spot? Are you trying to avoid the places that draw crowds? If so, then you should consider this travel list of this year’s top 15 under-the-radar travel destinations?
1. Sumba, Indonesia
Today’s Sumba is what Bali used to be over 20 years ago. This “lost world” island is twice as big as its more famous neighbor and has less than a sixth of the population. Situated north of Australia, south of Flores, and east of Timor, in the Indian Ocean. It features resorts, numerous idyllic beaches, snorkeling, world-class surfing, and friendly locals too.
2Cork, Ireland
Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork, is reportedly a serious travel alternative to Dublin. It has a youthful vibe, and foodies will love both the creative, Irish-rooted dishes and the farm-to-table restaurants here. There are also such pubs as the Long Valley Bar, featuring a bar that runs the entire length of the place, wonderful waterfront views, historic architecture, and you’ve got a perfect holiday.
3Tasmania, Australia
International jet-setters have long loved Tasmania. Here you’ll discover lush, soaring mountains, remote white sand beaches, and rugged wilderness. Additionally, Hobart’s experiencing a regular gastronomic renaissance thanks to big chefs cooking up dishes with the area’s high-quality produce. How about a nice, relaxing cruise to popular Wineglass Bay to take in the pink granite peaks of beautiful Freycinet National Park?
4Valle de Cocora, Colombia
The best Colombian alternative to Bogota, Cartagena, and Medellin is Valle de Cocora. It’s also a great place for caffeine addicts and nature lovers. This verdant area includes a number of coffee farms that welcome visitors. It’s also the place where you’ll find the tallest palm trees in the world. Finally, Valle de Cocora is known as a more remote, peaceful place.
5Tonga
Only 500 miles from famous Fiji, Tonga is not only one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, it’s also the best place on Earth to swim with humpback whales. Tonga is part of their natural migratory route from the icy Antarctic. Here you can get close enough to see them eye to eye. Rather not be that close? Take a boat tour.
6Faroe Islands
The remote Faroe Islands are getting noticed by adventure travelers. It’s highlighted by such charming villages as Gasadalur which is dramatically perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the sea. Secluded by a ring of massive mountains, you could once only reach this spot via a challenging hike. This tranquil locale is becoming known for its green fields, astounding views, and magnificent waterfall.
7The Azores
900 miles west of Portugal is the European country’s archipelago, The Azores. These volcanic islands offer visitors a peaceful, timeless beauty with often empty roads lined with hydrangeas and azaleas. It’s also a great place for breathtaking hikes, incredible cuisine, and wonderful whale watching. Flores Island is well-known for its lovely lagoons, grotto-carved cliffs, hot springs, volcanic remains, and beautiful flowers.
8Asturias, Spain
Veteran visitors say Asturias is one of the country’s “best-kept secrets” but doubt it will remain so. It has crystal lakes, crowd-free pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, dramatic, jagged mountain peaks, and an exceptional culinary scene. There are miles of scenic hiking trails, the stunning Covadonga Lakes, and the Holy Cave of Covadonga too.
9Puglia
Most tourists know nothing about Puglia. (That’s why you should always read your rovin’ writer’s work.) Highlights include the coastal sea caves at Polignano a Mare and Ostuni. Also known as “the White Town,” this medieval walled city consists of buildings built atop of each other. Archways were added to support the structures and compensate for the poor foundations. There’s a 15th-century cathedral too.
10Malawi, Africa
When tourists think of Africa, they think of Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa. They rarely consider Malawi. Surrounded by Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia, it features noteworthy national parks complete with areas of pristine white sand. Snorkelers will love Lake Malawi. Animal lovers should see Liwonde National Park where you can opt to explore on foot or take an exciting vehicle safari.
