top u.s. travel destinations 2022

22 of the best places you should travel to in the US in 2022

• As COVID continues, domestic getaways remain one of the best travel options for US travelers. 
• If you want to plan a trip in 2022, we found 22 places worth visiting that won't require a passport.
• Here's where you'll find pretty scenery, exciting events, hotel and restaurant openings, and more.

Travel demand is expected to soar in 2022.

If you're feeling ready to travel again, you're not alone. The World Travel & Tourism Council expects soaring demand for travel in 2022, with levels that may even outpace pre-pandemic times .

However, with a new COVID variant and ever-changing border constraints, it may be easier to keep those passports at home and stick to exploring the United States.

Thankfully, there's no shortage of worthy destinations. From world-famous cities making a comeback to remote paradises, national parks, and dreamy islands, several places in the US are poised to make a big splash in 2022 thanks to new venue openings, milestone anniversaries, special events, and more.

Orlando will celebrate Walt Disney World Resort's 50th anniversary, plus a revamped airport in 2022.

If you're a Disney fan, there's never a bad time to visit Orlando.

But 2022 will be extra special for the city when Walt Disney World Resort celebrates 50 years in Orlando. The golden anniversary festivities will span 18 months through spring 2023, but when you visit the parks in 2022 , expect special lighting and projects, commemorative statues and character costumes, and much more.

If you prefer luxury versus overly theme-y accommodations, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort , the only Five Diamond-rated property in Central Florida.

The $2.7 billion renovations of Orlando International Airport are also slated for completion in early spring 2022 . Costing more than any other single investment in Orlando, the overhaul includes the introduction of Brightline, Florida's high-speed passenger rail service.

Katy Perry and Carrie Underwood will begin Las Vegas residencies next year, along with many new attractions.

No matter how many times you've visited Vegas, a new year always brings new reasons to go back. That's because the city is constantly evolving with new shows and attractions as well as an endless-seeming array of world-class culinary and hospitality options.

The Strip recently opened its first new ground-up resort in more than a decade with Resorts World Las Vegas that's worth checking out. And Wynn Las Vegas spent $200 million to revamp its rooms and welcomed new restaurants like the sumptuous and star-studded supper club, Delilah , also known as the no-photos-allowed Kylie Jenner favorite venue , in partnership with The h.wood Group.

Or, try the new FlyOver in Las Vegas , a first-of-its-kind attraction on the Strip, and plan to buy tickets to any of the new artist residencies planned for 2022 that include Katy Perry and Carrie Underwood , who both kick off in December with dates into the new year.

Visit San Diego for newly opened concert venues, museums, beaches, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Find a sunny escape in San Diego almost any time of year. It also helps to learn that the city is more than 80 percent vaccinated among residents over 12, as of publishing.

Visit in 2022 and enjoy the San Diego Symphony's brand new outdoor concert venue, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park , or the reopened Mingei International Museum at Balboa Park, designed by Jennifer Luce.

Or indulge at some of the city's newly minted Michelin restaurants, including Addison , now with two stars, and one-star newbies Soichi Sushi , Sushi Tadokoro , and Jeune et Jolie .

For laid-back luxury, check in to the Estancia La Jolla Hotel and Spa , a hacienda-style retreat situated on 10 acres between San Diego's seaside villages of La Jolla and Del Mar.

The CMA Music Festival, with four days of country music, returns to Nashville in June.

Country music fans rejoice:  CMA Fest is finally coming back in Nashville in June after a two-year hiatus.

Summer will also make for steamy outdoor hangouts at the 166-year-old Centennial Park , which is undergoing a major renovation and recently unveiled the first statue of women's rights pioneers Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

Also opening in May in Music City is Conrad Nashville , centrally located in Midtown and billed as the city's first ultra-luxe property. Don't leave without a visit to a joint like Party Fowl to try the famous Nashville hot chicken.

Foodies should head to Houston, Texas for a diverse culinary scene and a new food festival.

Houston was recently named the nation's most diverse city , and if you don't already think of it as a foodie destination, 2022 is time to start. Indeed, Bravo's "Top Chef" announced its 19th season will take over the city, and a new food festival, Commune, will launch in town from Indie Chefs Community beginning in March.

Stay in the center of it all at the new Hyatt Place Houston/Downtown for easy striking distance to sightseeing.

Major food and music festivals are all set to return to New Orleans.

Following Hurricane Ida and even amid COVID, New Orleans is thriving, thanks to a major hotel boom , world-class dining, entertainment of all kinds (music oozes from everywhere), and plenty of festivals, which will be back in full force in 2022 after a major push to promote safe events in town . Come for Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, Tales of the Cocktail, and of course, Mardi Gras.

Stay at Virgin Hotels New Orleans , which recently reopened in the trendy Warehouse District.

Maui offers US travelers a dreamy tropical paradise without leaving the country.

Maui is a top-ranked search destination for 2022 travel , which makes a lot of sense given that it offers a bucket-list tropical trip that feels far-flung without leaving the country.

With spectacular beaches, dramatic mountains, and active volcanoes, it offers all the natural beauty you'd expect from an island paradise. But there are tons of things to do, too. Unlike some of the less built-up islands in the state, Maui offers a lively atmosphere along with the sophistication of a major urban destination.

Come in April for the Maui Marathon, or in June for the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea , which you may recognize as the filming location for HBO's "The White Lotus."

New York is welcoming back tourists with indoor dining, reopened attractions, and the long-awaited return of Broadway.

After an achingly long hiatus for theater buffs, Broadway is back, and that alone is worth a pilgrimage to New York City for many. The highly anticipated Museum of Broadway is also set to debut in summer 2022.

Toss in the return of indoor dining and drinking, and there's much to celebrate in the Big Apple going into 2022. Spend a day reading at the New York Public Library, visit the Bronx Zoo, and indulge in any style of cuisine from street food to the ultimate in elevated dining. Or, catch some of the best city sights from the water on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise .

Hailed as a sign of the city's recovery, the 1,878-room New York Hilton Midtown reopened in October .

Soak up culture of all kinds in Los Angeles.

The Super Bowl will draw many visitors to Los Angeles in February , but beyond sports, the city is in the midst of a major cultural boom thanks to the hotly anticipated — and visually dramatic — Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, which is open at last .

For additional outings, Lacma, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Petersen Automotive Museum, and more museums offer additional world-class culture in 2022.

Also next year, Conrad Los Angeles is set to open downtown in the spring as part of Related Companies' mixed-use development, The Grand LA , designed by Frank Gehry.

Charleston stands out for its culinary scene, historic architecture, and big upcoming events.

With a celebrated culinary scene, luxurious accommodations, historic architecture, and big events on the 2022 calendar, Charleston remains a perennial favorite domestic destination.

The city's popular culinary festival, Charleston Wine + Food Festival returns in March. The anticipated International African American Museum , which explores the city's role in the history of slavery, is also set to open early in the year.

Book a stay in the heart of the Historic District, in close proximity to the city's top boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Try the 52-room HarbourView Inn , which recently unveiled a $1 million refresh with designs from local artists and a refurbished rooftop.

Miami will host Formula 1's first-ever Grand Prix in May.

Packed with restaurants, big-name cultural institutions, a hot art scene, and one of the best beaches in the country, Miami is always top-of-mind for an easy getaway. As a result, it's also been named the most popular relocation location in the U.S.

In 2022, come for Formula 1's first-ever Grand Prix in May , or any time for beaches and nightlife. If you need a place to stay, W South Beach recently unveiled its $30 million design renovation, new spa, and a $100 million art collection with dozens of Warhols in the lobby. 

San Juan, Puerto Rico, the oldest city in the US, will mark its 500-year anniversary in 2022.

Plan a visit in the new year to check out Old San Juan in Puerto Rico, the oldest city in the United States and its territories, when it marks its 500-year anniversary in 2022.

To celebrate, the blue cobblestone city will bring events, festivals, tours, and more through June. A quick drive away, the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico on a private peninsula makes a nice base, with the island's largest lagoon-style pool, and its first floating waterpark over the ocean.

Plan a culturally educational and food-forward visit to our nation's capital.

With 2022 a non-election year, and interest in traveling to the nation's capital on the upswing after a major pandemic hit, it's the ideal time for a culturally educational and food-forward visit to Washington, D.C.

Logan Circle, which is well-placed for sightseeing, offers two new lively spots that have become neighborhood favorites: Hotel Zena and Viceroy Washington DC . Both hotels are conveniently centered around 14th Street NW, a trendy spot for taking in the city's attractions, eateries, and nightlife.

For an enchanting island getaway away from crowds, take the ferry to Daufuskie Island, South Carolina.

This magical getaway might not be on your radar but it should be. Accessible by ferry, Daufuskie Island is blanketed in lush Spanish moss and is steeped in Gullah history. Mostly dirt roads traverse the tiny island on the southernmost tip of South Carolina, making it an idyllic place that seems plucked from a much earlier era.

Here, you'll find nearly private white sand beaches, plus a top-ranked golf course.

On the island with no bridge, visitors stay at Haig Point , the island's only private, residential community in historic accommodations — the Strachan Mansion or 1873 Lighthouse.  

Escape to the desert in Palm Springs for midcentury design, music festivals, and LGBTQ events.

Palm Springs, California, and its environs are ideal for a 2022 trip if you're among the many travelers with remaining safety concerns thanks to its beautiful weather, wide-open spaces, and outdoor venues that includes more than 300 golf courses.

The famously LGBTQ-friendly destination also packs an impressive annual event calendar, from an international film festival in January to Modernism Week in February, and music festivals in the spring, including the long-awaited return of the Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals.

Casa Cody , the oldest operating hotel in Palm Springs, has standalone cottages for travelers seeking privacy and space.

Sip on world-class wine from lauded vineyards in Napa and Sonoma.

Northern California's Napa and Sonoma are home to some of the most famous wine-producing regions in the world, and a trip here in 2022 is a good choice for travelers with a pandemic savings surplus, as it's typically quite pricey.

The region comprises a sprawling landscape of bucolic vineyards, world-class restaurants, plus culture and shopping aplenty. Bring your wallet to dine at Thomas Keller's Yountville restaurant, The French Laundry . And if you visit in 2022, you'll be one of the earliest visitors at the new Four Seasons Napa Valley , set upon a working winery.

Invest in self-care in 2022 in Arizona's Sonoran Desert.

If all the stress 2021 (and 2020) has you craving both healing and wide-open spaces, head to Arizona's Sonoran Desert for a much-needed recharge.

Fly into Phoenix, which is surrounded on all sides by mountains, and visit the Phoenix Mountains Preserve , which includes thousands of acres of stunning hiking and biking trails through desert scenery. Or, head east to hit the Superstition Wilderness and the trail in Lost Dutchman State Park .

Complete the wellness experience with a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which was Arizona's first luxury resort, originally founded in 1896. Its mineral hot springs date back 13,000 years, and the 30-room resort has a digital detox philosophy. Newly added this year on property is Arizona's first-ever Via Ferrata cable climbing course.

Savor starry skies in Utah's canyon country, a place beloved by reality stars like the Kardashians.

Utah is a dream destination for travelers seeking nature and isolation, and not just during the daytime. The state is home to the world's highest concentration of Dark Sky Parks, so designated for incredible starry nights. All 18 such designated zones in Utah offer stunning scenery by day, too.

If you want to see stars of another sort (and money is no object), stay at Amangiri, a favorite among the Kardashians and Real Housewives where lodgings cost thousands nightly. 

Yellowstone National Park turns 150 years old in 2022.

America's first national park, Yellowstone, turns 150 years old in 2022. Celebrate the milestone with a visit to the park's famous geothermal features and spot-protected fauna, including elk and wolves that roam freely, as well as 300 unique species of birds. Expect special art, exhibits, and events in honor of the milestone.

Book ahead and stay at Old Faithful Inn , a national historic landmark and the most-requested lodging facility in the park. Its building began in 1903 with local logs and stone.

Greenville, South Carolina is a delight for foodies, sports fans, and outdoorsy types.

Greenville has flown largely under many travelers' radar, but this special Southern city is worth discovering in 2022. Its growth as a foodie destination continues with Lewis BBQ (coming 2022) and CAMP from French Laundry alum Drew Erikson, plus more than two dozen breweries.

Be one of the first visitors to the stunning new 60-acre outdoor park, Unity Park , right along the town's 22-plus mile Swamp Rabbit Bike trail, set to open in the spring. That's right around the same time as NCAA March Madness comes to town , too. Visit in May to stay at the new Grand Bohemian when it opens . 

For surfing, scenic nature, and ample art all year, consider Virginia Beach.

Virginia Beach stretches for a full 35 miles across the East Coast along the Atlantic Ocean, offering wide, clean beaches that are easily accessible for regional travelers, and so much more.

The East Coast Surfing Championship will celebrate its 60th anniversary in Virginia Beach in August, a weeklong celebration on the beach. The seaside city also offers 293 parks and park facilities, 29 miles of scenic waterways, and 300 miles of bike ways and trails.

Art appreciators will want to visit the ViBe Creative District or check out the Maya Lin solo exhibit coming to Virginia MOCA in 2022. Stay at the iconic, and newly restored,  Cavalier Virginia Beach , which has welcomed travelers for almost a century.

Baltimore is booming thanks to brand new hotels, eco-friendly endeavors, and the oldest public market in America.

Baltimore belongs on your list for 2022 for its diverse community of entrepreneurs and innovators, and an explosion of growth that includes the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore , The Ivy Hotel , and Sagamore Pendry Baltimore .

Plus, look out for budding developments and cultural districts including Harbor Point , the city's newest luxury waterfront neighborhood, and a truly sustainable one, with walkability, environmentally conscious buildings, an urban vegetable farm, smart irrigation systems, 9.5 acres of green space, and more. The new year will also bring the highly anticipated reopening of the iconic Lexington Market, the oldest public market in America . 

• Main content

Frommer's Best Places to Go in the United States in 2022

With Covid-19 still a major concern, the Frommer's staff struggled with whether to publish our annual Best Places article for 2022. Last year, we temporarily shelved our longstanding tradition in favor of a list of destinations that promote a deeper understanding of the United States. We're still quite proud of that feature, Great Authors on Our America , a collection of mini essays by such big names as David Sedaris, Gloria Steinem, Jodi Picoult, Cheryl Strayed, Fannie Flagg, and Timothy Egan.

This year, we decided to stick with a domestic focus. As many people discovered during the pandemic, the United States is a multifaceted travel destination, with vistas that dazzle the eye, attractions that expand the mind and imagination, food that tickles the tongue, and people who will welcome you like long-lost cousins. We still love foreign travel and intend to return to it in full force, but for now, American vacationers who stay within their own borders risk fewer disruptions from unexpected pandemic rule changes. Just as important, we don't believe you miss out by traveling close to home. Still, health and security stand out as primary concerns this year, so for the first time we also compiled a second, stand-alone list:  The World's Safest Places to Go in 2022 . We see it as a companion to what you're about to read. As always, our Best Places to Go are the top vacation choices for the year. Each was chosen for distinct reasons, whether the places are enjoying a resurgence, honoring a milestone or anniversary, or simply ripe for wider appreciation. These are the 10 places—in no particular order—that will be especially rewarding to visit in 2022.

Pictured above: Swanson River Wilderness, Kenai Wildlife Refuge, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

The Kenai is a mountain-studded, preserve-rich, bald eagle–patrolled  peninsula that stretches 150 miles south from Anchorage . It truly is one of the most spectacularly beautiful places in the United States. We want to shine a spotlight on the region to let more people know it's an option. Not everyone enjoys taking cruise vacations, and many people (wrongly) think taking a ship is the only practical way to experience coastal Alaska. Nope . A road trip along the Sterling Highway with a day cruise in Prince William Sound enables visitors to see everything that Alaskan cruisers do—but at their own pace and with more personal space. These world-class sights include calving glaciers, breaching whales, and other marine life; museums and sites devoted to Native Alaskan culture and history; dog sledding and gold panning operations; superb nature facilities (like the Alaska SeaLife Center ); groovy art galleries in Homer; old Russian settlements; and more. The Kenai is also laced by rivers, making it a top spot for rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing (it has one of the most prolific salmon runs in the world). Pictured above: Porcupine Bay, Kenai Fjords National Park , Alaska

It’s no exaggeration to say, as local artist Jonathan Green told CNN in 2020 , that "Charleston is the Ellis Island for Black people." Before the Civil War, an estimated 40% of enslaved Africans brought to the United States disembarked at Gadsden’s Wharf in the coastal city made prosperous on the backs of those arrivals. Efforts to reckon with that reality and its long legacy reach a major milestone with the opening in late 2022 of the International African American Museum , a facility dedicated to honoring “the diverse journeys and achievements of [enslaved Africans] and their descendants in South Carolina, the United States, and throughout the African Diaspora” on the very site of disembarkation. 

The museum supplies a necessary corrective to what had been, with some notable exceptions (such as the long-established, Black-owned Gullah Tours ), a prevailing tendency among many tourism organizations to romanticize the city as a pastel-hued paradise of Spanish moss and plantation gentility. Visit Charleston earlier in the year for the hugely popular Charleston Wine + Food festival (March 2–6), which returns after taking 2021 off, to fill up on the region’s fabled Lowcountry cuisine—also highly influenced by African American traditions—at a new, larger location at Riverfront Park.  

On March 1, 2022, it will be 150 years to the day since the American Congress made something the world had never seen before: It created the first "national park"  by declaring the area around Yellowstone "hereby reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale." The northwest corner of Wyoming, tucked in the apron of the Rockies, was the perfect choice to sanctify as a public pleasure park—even today, Yellowstone National Park has the highest concentration of mammals in the Lower 48 states and its 3,472 square miles preserve the planet's largest collection of hydrothermal features like geysers, mudpots, and fumaroles. The park's sesquicentennial is shaping into a celebration that will strengthen its position for the next 150 years, with a slate of educational talks , art shows of local work, and  expanded outreach to the Native American people who have lived on the land for more than 11,000 years. People come and go, but this land is eternally beautiful.

2022 marks 50 years since NASA's Apollo lunar missions ceased and President Richard M. Nixon authorized the Space Shuttle program. The Shuttle stopped flying in 2011, yet the launch pads of Kennedy Space Center, on 219 square miles of Florida's Atlantic coast east of Orlando, are bustling again. Today, nearly 100 private-sector partners, including Elon Musk's SpaceX, use the facility to research, prepare, and launch their endeavors. Cape Kennedy simultaneously functions as a popular museum of past triumphs and a lively spaceport of tomorrow.

This year, the superlative  Kennedy Space Center  attraction adds  Gateway , a 50,000-square-foot permanent exhibition about modern deep space exploration, even as SpaceX, which is leading those explorations, builds a custom launch pad for its fully reusable combined vehicle, Starship . For the first time in a generation, American space launches have regained their status as unifying national events, and the public viewing grounds just west of KSC are once again drawing crowds ( here's the upcoming schedule ). In addition to multiple astronaut launches to the International Space Station, 2022 will also see the spaceport break new barriers by sending the Artemis I test spacecraft around the moon in preparation for sending manned missions into the unknown on long-term missions. The Cape is launching the future once again.

Pictured above: KSC's colossal Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) is 525 feet tall, has the largest doors on the planet, and is painted with the world's largest American flag (209 feet tall).

West Virginia has come into its own as a tourism destination, thanks in large part to the December 2020 designation of the New River Gorge as the country’s newest—and the state's first—national park. Located on more than 70,000 acres in the Appalachian Mountains of the state’s southern region, the park’s titular waterway snakes through densely wooded hills and imposing sandstone cliffs. If you’ve developed a taste for outdoor adventure during the pandemic, this is where to satisfy that urge—conditions are near ideal for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Hit the park’s hiking trails and you’ll encounter waterfalls, abandoned mining outposts, and staggering vistas of the river and the gorge from the Grandview overlook and the 3,000-foot-long, 900-foot-high New River Gorge Bridge (pictured above).

In Oklahoma, history and culture are coming to the fore in a trio of new museums. Oklahoma City's $175 million   F irst Americans Museum opened in 2021, using priceless artifacts (44 of which are on loan from the Smithsonian), immersive exhibits, and live performances to tell the tales of the 39 Tribal Nations that live in the state.  A little over 100 miles northeast in Tulsa (take Route 66 there—Oklahoma has the longest stretch of it in the country), the new Greenwood Rising history center honors what was once known as Black Wall Street, a prosperous neighborhood that was wiped out in horrific 1921 racial attacks; HBO's award-winning  The Watchmen hinged on that hideous event. Also in Tulsa, the Bob Dylan Center  (pictured above) will debut soon in the heart of the city's buzzy Arts District, close to the facility dedicated to his songwriting progenitor, Woody Guthrie . Opening in May 2022, the Dylan Center promises a deep dive into the seminal work of the Nobel Prize–winning singer-songwriter and poet, housing more than 100,000 artifacts (handwritten manuscripts, music, ephemera), as well as screening films, hosting lectures, mounting concerts, and playing his music.

Puerto Rico has faced more than its fair share of challenges in the past few years: hurricanes, earthquakes, monthslong power outages, and Washington’s indifference (lobbing paper towels at the populace doesn’t count), to name a few. But the island’s exciting capital city has endured all of that and bounced back to reclaim its rightful place as a major tourism draw, with freshly completed repairs to storm-damaged resorts and cutting-edge new attractions such as Distrito T-Mobile , a splashy dining-and-entertainment venue near the Convention Center.

Of course, endurance is nothing new in a town that celebrated its 500th birthday in 2021. Soak up some of that history as well as San Juan’s unique combo of European, African, and Indigenous influences everywhere from cobblestoned, pastel-tinted  Old San Juan (pictured above) to the roadside food stands and traditional music and folk festivals of Loíza on the eastern end of the metropolitan area. Best of all for American travelers: Puerto Rico offers a Caribbean getaway that's still on U.S. soil—no passport needed and no returning-to-the-U.S. Covid-19 test required. (Puerto Rico does have some of its own Covid-related requirements, though; see our Caribbean info page for details).   

Pre-pandemic, New York City had some of the highest hotel rates in the hemisphere. But because of the near-elimination of business travel, nightly rates are in free fall, making this moment the best in ages to visit Gotham affordably. Broadway tickets have also gone down, thanks to a steady stream of deep discounts from sources like  Broadway Box , TodayTix , and the TKTS booth in Times Square—we snagged seats for two Broadway shows for just $39 a pop, about a quarter what they would have cost in 2019. Not every show is that cheap, of course, but because there are fewer tourists in town, tickets to every show are now available, including the big hits.

The past year has also given the city several new world-class attractions. These include the innovative "floating" park known as Little Island (pictured above), a psychedelic observation deck called SUMMIT One Vanderbilt , and the highest outdoor building climb on the planet. That addition has daredevil visitors scaling a 1,271-foot-tall skyscraper in  Hudson Yards . Old favorites are also returning, better than ever. The American Museum of Natural History opened a downright spectacular renovation of its hall of gems and minerals, the Frick  Museum is digging deep into its archive to display masterworks the public doesn't usually get to see (while it's temporarily in a different space), and the Metropolitan Museum is offering several potentially groundbreaking exhibitions such as " Before Yesterday We Could Fly: An Afrofuturist Period Room ." And don't forget about the landmark Whitney Biennial, that institution's sweeping, semiannual survey of the best of contemporary American art.

The Great Lakes make up one of the largest and most wondrous ecosystems in the United States, if not the planet, accounting for roughly 21% of the world's fresh water. On the shores of the Great Lakes and nearby you'll find some of America's mightiest cities, its most appealing beaches and natural sights, and some of its most historic and welcoming small towns.

Individually, these elements have drawn vacationers for centuries, and indeed, some tall-masted ships and smaller expedition cruise operations, such as  Pearl Seas Cruises  and  Haphag Lloyd , have been creating multi-day vacations on these waters for years. But in 2022, the Great Lakes will be newly knit together by high-end sailings by the famed Viking Cruises on its  swanky Expedition line  (the Viking Polaris is pictured above) and the French company Ponant (in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys ). Sailing the Great Lakes just became a far more luxurious vacation option. The most common itineraries take cruisers between Toronto or Thunder Bay and Milwaukee or Duluth, visiting such highlights as historic Mackinac Island , Niagara Falls , Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , and  Georgian Bay (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve).

It's no secret that Las Vegas is one of the world's top destinations for music and entertainment. But the pandemic has sent the city's residency programs into overdrive with an ever-expanding list of big names who have decided that letting their audiences come to Nevada is a smarter alternative to widespread touring. We're about to see upcoming residencies by the likes of Adele, John Legend, Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, Celine Dion, and Sting. Comedy residencies are also a growing trend in Vegas, with Jon Lovitz, Bill Maher, Jim Gaffigan, and George Lopez all slated to take the stage on a regular basis. Many of these stars will play  Resorts World Las Vegas  (pictured above), the first major new gambling compound in Sin City in over a decade. Resorts World cost a reported $4.3 billion to build, so it has a huge stake in attracting major crowds to the Strip with the city's first Asian-style street food court, a bakery from star pastry-maker Dominique Ansel (creator of the  cronut ), and that aggressive events schedule stuffed with A-list performers. Other stories you may like:  •  The World's Safest Places to Go in 2022

•  Best Places 2021: Great Authors on Our America

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town, farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor. Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened 404 an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The "World's Most Magical Celebration" — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella 404 . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas 404 , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table 404 . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah 429 , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR 404 by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup 404 (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos 404 . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

Related Articles

12 Best Places to Visit in USA in 2022

America’s vast and hugely diverse landscape is ripe for discovery in 2022. The United States covers almost 4 million square miles, each one special in its own way. You could spend your whole life exploring this country and still have more to see. The best places to visit in the U.S. range from bustling cities to the blissful quiet of the deep wilderness.

Top American Destinations

The magic of America is its endless variety of cultures, sights, history, and people. This is a great year to travel the country and explore the best places to visit in the USA in 2022.

1. Albuquerque

When it’s time to eat, enjoy some of the area’s famous roasted hatch green chiles. They impart a delicious, distinctive spin on traditional Mexican dishes.

See Albuquerque on: Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Southwestern Tour

2. Cascade Mountains

See the Cascade Mountains on: Sights of the Pacific Northwest

3. Charlotte

4. Grand Canyon National Park

See the Grand Canyon on: Crimson Canyons & Mesas National Parks Tour

5. Kenai Fjords National Park

See Kenai Fjords National Park on: Alaskan Discovery Tour

6. Mackinac Island

Island activities include horse-drawn carriage rides, tours of Arch Rock, Fort Mackinac, or Fort Holms, dining at Grand Hotel , and excellent shopping. Be sure to stop in at a few of the fudge shops, whose irresistible smell perfumes the entire downtown district.

See Mackinac Island on: Mackinac Island & Grand Hotel

7. Mount Rushmore

See Mount Rushmore on: Rocky Mountains & Black Hills National Parks Tour

8. Na Pali Coast

See the Na Pali Coast o:n Hawaiian Islands Cruise & Tour

9. New Orleans

New Orleans’ spicy, bold, exquisitely flavorful Creole and Cajun cuisine are a huge draw. You must try dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish etouffee—followed by a doughy, freshly fried, powder sugar-covered beignet.

See New Orleans on New Orleans & Western Caribbean Cruise

10. San Diego

There are military museums and memorials in and around the city. The USS Midway , the 20 th century’s longest-serving aircraft carrier, has been repurposed as a historical naval aircraft carrier museum.

See San Diego on: Pacific Coast Cruise

Taos has also long been a mecca for artists. The glorious work of local painters, craftspeople, sculptors, and ceramicists adorns the streets and fills the countless art galleries and museums around the city.

12. Washington, D.C.

See Washington, D.C. on Discover Washington D.C.

See the Best Places to Visit in the USA In 2022 with YMT Vacations!

If 2023 is your year to explore the United States, a guided tour with YMT Vacations is the best way to do it. No matter what you want to see or where you want to go, there is a YMT vacation for you! To experience this and much more,  make your reservations  by calling your travel agent or YMT Vacations at  888-860-1969 .

See the world with YMT Vacations

Expert Blog Entries

Rose Parade 2024: What To Expect

4 Reasons To Love A European River Cruise

The Best Time To Visit Morocco

10 Best Places to Visit in the World in 2023

The Grand Vacation: Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon

Our best selling trips.

South Africa Safari Tour

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare

The roar of lions. The trumpeting of elephants. The pounding hooves of zebras. If you’ve spent your whole life dreaming of Africa’s wildlife, this tour belongs at the top of your bucket list.

Mediterranean Greece & Turkey Cruise

Cruise through four Mediterranean countries as the ancient world comes alive on this Mediterranean Greece and Turkey cruise tour rich with scenery and history.

German Christmas Markets

Immerse yourself in the festive traditions of Germany at Christmastime! The air is perfumed with the aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread, and the streets are aglow in glistening lights.

Sign Up & Save

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

22 of the best places you should travel to in the US in 2022

As COVID continues, domestic getaways remain one of the best travel options for US travelers.

If you want to plan a trip in 2022, we found 22 places worth visiting that won't require a passport.

Here's where you'll find pretty scenery, exciting events, hotel and restaurant openings, and more.

Travel demand is expected to soar in 2022.

If you're feeling ready to travel again, you're not alone. The World Travel & Tourism Council expects soaring demand for travel in 2022, with levels that may even outpace pre-pandemic times .

However, with a new COVID variant and ever-changing border constraints, it may be easier to keep those passports at home and stick to exploring the United States.

Thankfully, there's no shortage of worthy destinations. From world-famous cities making a comeback to remote paradises, national parks, and dreamy islands, several places in the US are poised to make a big splash in 2022 thanks to new venue openings, milestone anniversaries, special events, and more.

Orlando will celebrate Walt Disney World Resort's 50th anniversary, plus a revamped airport in 2022.

If you're a Disney fan, there's never a bad time to visit Orlando.

But 2022 will be extra special for the city when Walt Disney World Resort celebrates 50 years in Orlando. The golden anniversary festivities will span 18 months through spring 2023, but when you visit the parks in 2022 , expect special lighting and projects, commemorative statues and character costumes, and much more.

If you prefer luxury versus overly theme-y accommodations, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort , the only Five Diamond-rated property in Central Florida.

The $2.7 billion renovations of Orlando International Airport are also slated for completion in early spring 2022 . Costing more than any other single investment in Orlando, the overhaul includes the introduction of Brightline, Florida's high-speed passenger rail service.

Katy Perry and Carrie Underwood will begin Las Vegas residencies next year, along with many new attractions.

No matter how many times you've visited Vegas, a new year always brings new reasons to go back. That's because the city is constantly evolving with new shows and attractions as well as an endless-seeming array of world-class culinary and hospitality options.

The Strip recently opened its first new ground-up resort in more than a decade with Resorts World Las Vegas that's worth checking out. And part of Wynn Las Vegas' $200 million revamp was the debut of the sumptuous and star-studded supper club Delilah , also known as the no-photos-allowed Kylie Jenner favorite venue , in partnership with The h.wood Group.

Or, try the new FlyOver in Las Vegas , a first-of-its-kind attraction on the Strip, and plan to buy tickets to any of the new artist residencies planned for 2022 that include Katy Perry and Carrie Underwood , who both kick off in December with dates into the new year.

Visit San Diego for newly opened concert venues, museums, beaches, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Find a sunny escape in San Diego almost any time of year. It also helps to learn that the city is more than 80 percent vaccinated among residents over 12, as of publishing.

Visit in 2022 and enjoy the San Diego Symphony's brand new outdoor concert venue, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park , or the reopened Mingei International Museum at Balboa Park, designed by Jennifer Luce.

Or indulge at some of the city's newly minted Michelin restaurants, including Addison , now with two stars, and one-star newbies Soichi Sushi , Sushi Tadokoro , and Jeune et Jolie .

For laid-back luxury, check in to the Estancia La Jolla Hotel and Spa , a hacienda-style retreat situated on 10 acres between San Diego's seaside villages of La Jolla and Del Mar.

The CMA Music Festival, with four days of country music, returns to Nashville in June.

Country music fans rejoice: CMA Fest is finally coming back in Nashville in June after a two-year hiatus.

Summer will also make for steamy outdoor hangouts at the 166-year-old Centennial Park , which is undergoing a major renovation and recently unveiled the first statue of women's rights pioneers Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

Also opening in May in Music City is Conrad Nashville , centrally located in Midtown and billed as the city's first ultra-luxe property. Don't leave without a visit to a joint like Party Fowl to try the famous Nashville hot chicken.

Foodies should head to Houston, Texas for a diverse culinary scene and a new food festival.

Houston was recently named the nation's most diverse city , and if you don't already think of it as a foodie destination, 2022 is time to start. Indeed, Bravo's "Top Chef" announced its 19th season will take over the city, and a new food festival, Commune, will launch in town from Indie Chefs Community beginning in March.

Stay in the center of it all at the new Hyatt Place Houston/Downtown for easy striking distance to sightseeing.

Major food and music festivals are all set to return to New Orleans.

Following Hurricane Ida and even amid COVID, New Orleans is thriving, thanks to a major hotel boom , world-class dining, entertainment of all kinds (music oozes from everywhere), and plenty of festivals, which will be back in full force in 2022 after a major push to promote safe events in town . Come for Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, Tales of the Cocktail, and of course, Mardi Gras.

Stay at Virgin Hotels New Orleans , set to open reopen in the trendy Warehouse District.

Maui offers US travelers a dreamy tropical paradise without leaving the country.

Maui is a top-ranked search destination for 2022 travel , which makes a lot of sense given that it offers a bucket-list tropical trip that feels far-flung without leaving the country.

With spectacular beaches, dramatic mountains, and active volcanoes, it offers all the natural beauty you'd expect from an island paradise. But there are tons of things to do, too. Unlike some of the less built-up islands in the state, Maui offers a lively atmosphere along with the sophistication of a major urban destination.

Come in April for the Maui Marathon, or in June for the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea , which you may recognize as the filming location for HBO's "The White Lotus."

New York is welcoming back tourists with indoor dining, reopened attractions, and the long-awaited return of Broadway.

After an achingly long hiatus for theater buffs, Broadway is back, and that alone is worth a pilgrimage to New York City for many. The highly anticipated Museum of Broadway is also set to debut in summer 2022.

Toss in the return of indoor dining and drinking, and there's much to celebrate in the Big Apple going into 2022. Spend a day reading at the New York Public Library, visit the Bronx Zoo, and indulge in any style of cuisine from street food to the ultimate in elevated dining. Or, catch some of the best city sights from the water on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise .

Hailed as a sign of the city's recovery, the 1,878-room New York Hilton Midtown reopened in October .

Soak up culture of all kinds in Los Angeles.

The Super Bowl will draw many visitors to Los Angeles in February , but beyond sports, the city is in the midst of a major cultural boom thanks to the hotly anticipated — and visually dramatic — Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, which is open at last .

For additional outings, Lacma, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Petersen Automotive Museum, and more museums offer additional world-class culture in 2022.

Also next year, Conrad Los Angeles is set to open downtown in the spring as part of Related Companies' mixed-use development, The Grand LA , designed by Frank Gehry.

Charleston stands out for its culinary scene, historic architecture, and big upcoming events.

With a celebrated culinary scene, luxurious accommodations, historic architecture, and big events on the 2022 calendar, Charleston remains a perennial favorite domestic destination.

The city's popular culinary festival, Charleston Wine + Food Festival returns in March. The anticipated International African American Museum , which explores the city's role in the history of slavery, is also set to open early in the year.

Book a stay in the heart of the Historic District, in close proximity to the city's top boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Try the 52-room HarbourView Inn , which recently unveiled a $1 million refresh with designs from local artists and a refurbished rooftop.

Miami will host Formula 1's first-ever Grand Prix in May.

Packed with restaurants, big-name cultural institutions, a hot art scene, and one of the best beaches in the country, Miami is always top-of-mind for an easy getaway. As a result, it's also been named the most popular relocation location in the U.S.

In 2022, come for Formula 1's first-ever Grand Prix in May , or any time for beaches and nightlife. If you need a place to stay, W South Beach recently unveiled its $30 million design renovation, new spa, and a $100 million art collection with dozens of Warhols in the lobby.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, the oldest city in the US, will mark its 500-year anniversary in 2022.

Plan a visit in the new year to check out Old San Juan in Puerto Rico, the oldest city in the United States and its territories, when it marks its 500-year anniversary in 2022.

To celebrate, the blue cobblestone city will bring events, festivals, tours, and more through June. A quick drive away, the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico on a private peninsula makes a nice base, with the island's largest lagoon-style pool, and its first floating waterpark over the ocean.

Plan a culturally educational and food-forward visit to our nation's capital.

With 2022 a non-election year, and interest in traveling to the nation's capital on the upswing after a major pandemic hit, it's the ideal time for a culturally educational and food-forward visit to Washington, D.C.

Logan Circle, which is well-placed for sightseeing, offers two new lively spots that have become neighborhood favorites: Hotel Zena and Viceroy Washington DC . Both hotels are conveniently centered around 14th Street NW, a trendy spot for taking in the city's attractions, eateries, and nightlife.

For an enchanting island getaway away from crowds, take the ferry to Daufuskie Island, South Carolina.

This magical getaway might not be on your radar but it should be. Accessible by ferry, Daufuskie Island is blanketed in lush Spanish moss and is steeped in Gullah history. Mostly dirt roads traverse the tiny island on the southernmost tip of South Carolina, making it an idyllic place that seems plucked from a much earlier era.

Here, you'll find nearly private white sand beaches, plus a top-ranked golf course.

On the island with no bridge, visitors stay at Haig Point , the island's only private, residential community in historic accommodations — the Strachan Mansion or 1873 Lighthouse.

Escape to the desert in Palm Springs for midcentury design, music festivals, and LGBTQ events.

Palm Springs, California, and its environs are ideal for a 2022 trip if you're among the many travelers with remaining safety concerns thanks to its beautiful weather, wide-open spaces, and outdoor venues that includes more than 300 golf courses.

The famously LGBTQ-friendly destination also packs an impressive annual event calendar, from an international film festival in January to Modernism Week in February, and music festivals in the spring, including the long-awaited return of the Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals.

Casa Cody , the oldest operating hotel in Palm Springs, has standalone cottages for travelers seeking privacy and space.

Sip on world-class wine from lauded vineyards in Napa and Sonoma.

Northern California's Napa and Sonoma are home to some of the most famous wine-producing regions in the world, and a trip here in 2022 is a good choice for travelers with a pandemic savings surplus, as it's typically quite pricey.

The region comprises a sprawling landscape of bucolic vineyards, world-class restaurants, plus culture and shopping aplenty. Bring your wallet to dine at Thomas Keller's Yountville restaurant, The French Laundry . And if you visit in 2022, you'll be one of the earliest visitors at the new Four Seasons Napa Valley , set upon a working winery.

Invest in self-care in 2022 in Arizona's Sonoran Desert.

If all the stress 2021 (and 2020) has you craving both healing and wide-open spaces, head to Arizona's Sonoran Desert for a much-needed recharge.

Fly into Phoenix, which is surrounded on all sides by mountains, and visit the Phoenix Mountains Preserve , which includes thousands of acres of stunning hiking and biking trails through desert scenery. Or, head east to hit the Superstition Wilderness and the trail in Lost Dutchman State Park .

Complete the wellness experience with a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which was Arizona's first luxury resort, originally founded in 1896. Its mineral hot springs date back 13,000 years, and the 30-room resort has a digital detox philosophy. Newly added this year on property is Arizona's first-ever Via Ferrata cable climbing course.

Savor starry skies in Utah's canyon country, a place beloved by reality stars like the Kardashians.

Utah is a dream destination for travelers seeking nature and isolation, and not just during the daytime. The state is home to the world's highest concentration of Dark Sky Parks, so designated for incredible starry nights. All 18 such designated zones in Utah offer stunning scenery by day, too.

If you want to see stars of another sort (and money is no object), stay at Amangiri, a favorite among the Kardashians and Real Housewives where lodgings cost thousands nightly.

Yellowstone National Park turns 150 years old in 2022.

America's first national park, Yellowstone, turns 150 years old in 2022. Celebrate the milestone with a visit to the park's famous geothermal features and spot-protected fauna, including elk and wolves that roam freely, as well as 300 unique species of birds. Expect special art, exhibits, and events in honor of the milestone.

Book ahead and stay at Old Faithful Inn , a national historic landmark and the most-requested lodging facility in the park. Its building began in 1903 with local logs and stone.

Greenville, South Carolina is a delight for foodies, sports fans, and outdoorsy types.

Greenville has flown largely under many travelers' radar, but this special Southern city is worth discovering in 2022. Its growth as a foodie destination continues with Lewis BBQ (coming 2022) and CAMP from French Laundry alum Drew Erikson, plus more than two dozen breweries.

Be one of the first visitors to the stunning new 60-acre outdoor park, Unity Park , right along the town's 22-plus mile Swamp Rabbit Bike trail, set to open in the spring. That's right around the same time as NCAA March Madness comes to town , too. Visit in May to stay at the new Grand Bohemian when it opens .

For surfing, scenic nature, and ample art all year, consider Virginia Beach.

Virginia Beach stretches for a full 35 miles across the East Coast along the Atlantic Ocean, offering wide, clean beaches that are easily accessible for regional travelers, and so much more.

The East Coast Surfing Championship will celebrate its 60th anniversary in Virginia Beach in August, a weeklong celebration on the beach. The seaside city also offers 293 parks and park facilities, 29 miles of scenic waterways, and 300 miles of bike ways and trails.

Art appreciators will want to visit the ViBe Creative District or check out the Maya Lin solo exhibit coming to Virginia MOCA in 2022. Stay at the iconic, and newly restored, Cavalier Virginia Beach , which has welcomed travelers for almost a century.

Baltimore is booming thanks to brand new hotels, eco-friendly endeavors, and the oldest public market in America.

Baltimore belongs on your list for 2022 for its diverse community of entrepreneurs and innovators, and an explosion of growth that includes the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore , The Ivy Hotel , and Sagamore Pendry Baltimore .

Plus, look out for budding developments and cultural districts including Harbor Point , the city's newest luxury waterfront neighborhood, and a truly sustainable one, with walkability, environmentally conscious buildings, an urban vegetable farm, smart irrigation systems, 9.5 acres of green space, and more. The new year will also bring the highly anticipated reopening of the iconic Lexington Market, the oldest public market in America .

Read the original article on Insider

Recommended Stories

Panic meter: travis kelce, sam laporta, dalton kincaid and more + waiver wire pickups | yahoo fantasy forecast.

Week 2 is in the books and oh my there's a lot of panic on these fantasy streets. Dalton Del Don joins Matt Harmon for the regular season debut of 'People's Panic Meter' to answer all of your listener submissions. The duo examines the situations for Travis Kelce, Dalton Kincaid, Sam LaPorta and many more.

Texas QB Quinn Ewers leaves UTSA game with 'strained abdomen,' Arch Manning throws TD on next play

Manning then rushed for a 67-yard TD on his third play.

Report: Twins release minor-league catcher Derek Bender for tipping pitches to opposing hitters

The Minnesota Twins released minor-league catcher Derek Bender after he tipped pitches to opposing hitters in a game in which his team was eliminated from playoff contention.

Cowboys DC Mike Zimmer, star Micah Parsons on different pages about defensive issues after blowout loss vs. Saints

The Cowboys gave up six straight touchdown drives in their blowout loss to the Saints on Sunday.

‘Serious energy deflation’ is coming whether Trump or Harris wins, says analyst

No matter who wins the election, energy prices are poised to drop.

Chain official from Ravens-Raiders hospitalized after collapsing on field, receiving chest compressions

A chain official was carted off the field on Sunday night during the Bears-Texans game, too.

What a bigger-than-expected Fed rate cut would mean for the stock market

Recent market history shows the Federal Reserve typically only starts interest cuts with 50 basis point reductions when the economy is significantly weakening.

After penalties, Cal coach grabs referee's mic to plead with fans to stop throwing cards on the field

Cal was assessed two 15-yard penalties for objects on the field in its 31-10 win over San Diego State.

watchOS 11 is out now, with new Sleep Apnea feature

Over three months after Apple introduced it at WWDC 2024, watchOS 11 is officially here. The 2024 Apple Watch update, which adds the new Vital apps, widget improvements and sleep apnea detection, is now available to install on your smartwatch.

Formula 1: McLaren takes over constructors lead with Oscar Piastri win in Azerbaijan; Sergio Perez crashes

Perez crashed with Carlos Sainz on the penultimate lap.

Saints are good now? Ravens in big trouble: Week 2 instant reactions | Inside Coverage

Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab join forces to give their instant takeaways and reactions from every game in the Week 2 NFL Sunday slate.

Deion Sanders wonders why Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders didn't get more Week 1 recognition

Colorado beat FCS school North Dakota State 31-26 in Week 1.

Driver accused of killing NHL's Johnny Gaudreau and brother denied bail, had .087 blood-alcohol level

Sean Higgins is charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.

Man arrested, charged with stalking after allegedly harassing UConn star Paige Bueckers for months

A 40-year-old Oregon man is being charged with breach of peace, electronic stalking and harassment.

How to maximize your interest earnings following a Fed rate cut

The Fed is expected to cut its target rate this week, which will have a ripple effect on bank accounts. So how can you keep earning interest on your savings? Here’s what to do.

Duke's Cooper Flagg, likely top pick in 2025 NBA Draft, signs shoe deal with New Balance

Duke freshman and likely 2025 No. 1 NBA draft pick Cooper Flagg has signed a multi-year endorsement deal with New Balance.

College Football Playoff Picture: Here's what the 12-team bracket looks like after Week 2

The first iteration of the 12-team College Football Playoff is only months away. After two weeks of action, the field is filled with SEC teams.

Where does Notre Dame's stunning loss fall among the biggest upsets in college football history?

Northern Illinois defeated Notre Dame in South Bend as 28.5-point underdogs.

Anne Hathaway's joined the legions of fans sporting these $50 Birkenstock slides

Stay comfortable and look stylish in these A-list-approved sandals.

Dusty Baker's son, Darren, called up by Nationals 22 years after becoming World Series storyline

Darren Baker, best known for being carried out of harm's way as a 3-year-old bat boy during the 2002 World Series, is being called up to the Major Leagues by the Washington Nationals.

The Best Places to Visit in the United States in 2022

By Esme Benjamin

While putting a pin in our international travel plans the last couple of years was disappointing, there was an upside: we were encouraged to discover beauty and adventure closer to home, and for many of us it was a welcome reminder that you don’t have to go great distances to have great experiences. Perhaps that’s why the domestic travel trend shows no signs of slowing down this year. Whether you’re enticed by the great outdoors or excited about the return of big city travel, our list of the best places to visit in the United States in 2022 offers inspiration for your next adventure.

Go Stargazing at Acadia National Park 

As the first place in the United States to see sunrise, Acadia National Park is a prime destination for self-declared “morning people,” (greeting dawn from the top of Cadillac Mountain is one of the park’s most popular activities) .  But thanks to the Acadia Night Sky Festival, which celebrates its 13th year anniversary in 2022, it’s equally suited to night owls. Scheduled for September 21-25 (which also happens to be one of the best/least crowded times of year to visit Acadia), the festival celebrates the largest expanse of dark sky east of the Mississippi River with a program of workshops, speakers, good eats and, of course, stargazing galore. Stay tuned for announcements .  

Discover Paradise Without the Crowds on Lanai Island

Hawaii has exploded in popularity since the pandemic began, consistently topping Google charts as the most searched U.S. vacation destination. If you’re feeling called to the Aloha state but don’t want to join throngs of other tourists, it might be time you considered Lanai. As one of the smaller and lesser visited islands, Lanai offers a more wellness-centric experience than its neighbors. Spend your days on chilled beaches and hiking trails, and your evenings eating and drinking alongside the locals. For a true wellbeing break book your stay at the Sensei Lānaʻi and take advantage of its customized health programs. 

Visit the USA’s Newest National Park in West Virginia

East coasters rejoice; in 2020 West Virginia got a new national park, and it’s well worth a road trip. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has relatively few hiking trails compared with other mountain-filled parks in the U.S., but it more than makes up for the fact with a wealth of adventure activities. Visitors can try mountain biking, white water rafting and even base jumping (each year in October brave souls can sign up to parachute 876 ft. from the New River Gorge Bridge down to the river). We suggest visiting in the fall, when bright foliage makes park views even more striking. 

Let Loose in New Orleans

Ask anybody who’s been to New Orleans about their experience and they’ll likely reel off anecdotes about raucous festivals, impromptu adventures and serendipitous encounters. NoLa knows how to party, but the pandemic really put a damper on its celebratory spirit. This year, it’s back with a bang. New Orleans residents say the 2022 Mardi Gras was comparable to pre-COVID times and one glance at the packed calendar of events suggests the city is regaining its famous insatiable energy. If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to let loose, a trip to New Orleans is the perfect excuse. 

Visit Charleston’s International African American Museum  

Set to open in late 2022, Charleston’s International African American Museum will honor and explore the “cultures and knowledge systems retained and adapted by Africans in the Americas, and the diverse journeys and achievements of these individuals and their descendants in South Carolina, the United States, and throughout the African Diaspora.” It’s an important milestone for a city still reckoning with its past (including the fact that an estimated 40% of enslaved Africans arrived on American soil at Gadsden’s Wharf), and a must-visit for history buffs and culture aficionados everywhere. 

Hike The Wave (If You’re Lucky)

With its undulating sedimentary rock formations in shades of cinnamon and biscuit, The Wave is a bucket list spot for hiking enthusiasts and photographers alike. It’s also one of the most exclusive outdoor spots in America; access to The Wave is granted via a daily lottery, with 64 permits issued at random by the US Bureau of Land Management (48 permits granted three months in advance for online applicants and 16 permits granted one day in advance for in-person applicants). If you’re lucky enough to win, you’ll be issued with a map (there is no defined trail and cell phone signal can be patchy) to begin your six-mile, round-trip hike to The Wave, on the border of Arizona and Utah. The best part? With visitors capped at 64 per day, you’re likely to have this magical place all to yourself. To visit this year, submit your lottery entry ASAP and keep everything crossed. 

Celebrate 150 Years of Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t been to America’s first national park yet, make 2022 the year you visit. Yellowstone celebrated its 150-year anniversary this March, with a program of symposiums, conferences, parades and other celebrations which honor the beauty and ecological diversity of this special place. You could spend a week exploring the terrain of Yellowstone, from kaleidoscopic thermal pools and explosive geysers to golden grassland and wide rivers, but if you’re strapped for time prioritize hiking the rim of The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone––a pastel-hued canyon carved by the Yellowstone River. It’s blessed with continuous overlooks to soak up the awe, including the breathtakingly beautiful and aptly named Artist Point.  

Discover Blissful Beaches at Indiana Dunes National Park 

Time spent by the ocean provides a significant boost to our wellbeing, but jostling for space, competing speaker systems and guys hawking homemade cocktails can ruin the experience somewhat. For a less commercial, more chilled experience this year, consider a trip to Indiana Dunes National Park . Situated along 15-miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the park boasts powdery golden sand framed by steep dunes (some up to 125 ft) etched with dog-friendly walking trails. With nine different beaches to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a peaceful place to unfurl your beach towel.

Go Bear Spotting at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Alaska's remote location and huge swathes of untouched wilderness make it an absolute dream for adventurers. Cruises to the beautiful Kenai Peninsula are set to make a comeback this year, but for a more sustainable and immersive experience of Alaska we recommend heading to Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. Thanks to its legendary salmon run, this four-million acre pocket of Alaska is prime brown bear territory, and now you can get a front row seat to all their activities at Natural Habitat Adventures ’ Alaska Bear Camp . Led by a team of bear naturalists, this four-night, once-in-a-lifetime experience provides guests with intimate proximity to one of America’s most beloved species. 

Catch a Show to Remember in Las Vegas 

Those early pandemic photos of the deserted Las Vegas Strip are a distant memory two years on, as a plethora of new openings and exciting entertainment residencies bring visitors flocking to Sin City once again. Hot tickets include Adele, John Legend, Katy Perry, Carrie Underwood, Sting, Celine Dion, Lady Gaga and Usher. Peruse dates and book shows at the newly opened Resorts World Las Vegas , Caesars Palace , and (our favorite venue) Park MGM’s Dolby Live .

full_time_travel

Sunsets in Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey offer a mesmerizing sight with vibrant colors against the backdrop of fairy chimneys and rock formations. It`s a serene and unforgettable experience, perfect for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Reel : @adrianbaias ...

Vietnam is a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the lush rice terraces to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, its landscapes are captivating. The warmth and resilience of its people add a unique charm, whether in bustling cities like Hanoi or historic sites like Hue. Vietnam offers a profound experience that merges breathtaking scenery with a vibrant local culture, leaving visitors enchanted and inspired. Reel: @zayyarlin84 ...

Explore Madeira`s stunning coastline: rugged cliffs, volcanic formations like Ponta de São Lourenço, and charming fishing villages like Funchal. Discover the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this Portuguese gem! Reel: @andrechaica ...

Elevate your date night at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas! Start with a meal at one of the property`s 40+ restaurants, then head to the stunning new High-Limit Gaming Lounge in The Palazzo. Whether you`re spinning the slots or going all-in at the tables, you`re in for an unforgettable experience. Ready to get lucky? Link in bio! ...

Summer in Liguria is pure magic. Enjoy sunny days, laze by the emerald sea and dine al fresco at the @belmondsplendidomare for the ultimate taste of la dolce vita. You can also sail in Portofino or take a dip in the saltwater swimming pool at @belmondhotelsplendido. ...

For a sizzling date night, head to The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Try your luck at the new High-Limit Gaming Lounge in The Palazzo. With marble decor, exclusive cocktails, and high-stakes games, it`s the perfect spot for a luxurious night out. Link in bio to book your stay! Photo 1-3, 5: @sassafranski Photo 4: @venetianvegas ...

The pool at @krallerhof is an elegant and inviting oasis, nestled within the beautiful surroundings of the Austrian Alps. It offers a serene retreat for guests to relax and unwind, with both indoor and outdoor options available. The pool area is meticulously maintained and features luxurious amenities, providing a tranquil escape for visitors to enjoy during their stay. Reel: @nichodebiasio ...

Point Reyes: A coastal gem with diverse landscapes, wildlife, and stunning views. Perfect for hiking, beachcombing, and stargazing. Reel: @tylerwayneglass ...

A Sicilian afternoon. @fstaormina Photo: @nati_yad ...

The summer of celebration at The Venetian Resort is meant to honor the resort’s status as an institution on the Las Vegas Strip—and show off the ways it has evolved over the last quarter century. Link in bio to see a few of the best new must-try experiences at The Venetian Resort and to book your stay! ...

The Busan Air Cruise, also known as the Sky Capsule Train, is a popular attraction in Busan, South Korea. This unique train ride takes passengers on a journey above the city, providing stunning panoramic views of Busan`s coastline, mountains, and urban landscape. The futuristic capsule-shaped cabins offer a comfortable and immersive experience, making it a must-try activity for visitors exploring Busan. Reel: @belet_ryu ...

"Checking into Estelle Manor, the closest thing to a Saltburn-esque staycation you`ll ever experience in the UK. Imagine a beautifully restored Jacobean manor on the cusp of the Cotswolds and nestled within 3,000 acres of Oxfordshire parkland, with extravagant interiors to match (expect bold artworks and intricate details around each corner), a Riviera-style pool to lounge by, and three different restaurant to sink your teeth into. The addition of the hotel`s new Eynsham Baths (an incredible spa modelled on traditional Roman baths) really takes the hotel up another notch, despite it already being in a league of its own." - @ginagoesto ...

Maybe it’s the gentle pace and rural scenes rolling past the window, or the inevitably of crossing paths with strangers – however briefly. Whatever the reason, there’s something about train travel that adds a touch of nostalgic romance to any journey – especially if that journey happens to whisk you through some of the world’s most striking landscapes. Rather than taking passengers from point A to point B, these train trips are travel experiences in and of themselves, offering fine dining and high-end hospitality as they traverse canyons, mountains, deserts and coastlines. Link in bio to see the list! ...

A scenic coastal drive in Africa. Reel: @joshstrauss_ ...

At The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, HaSalon is the spot for upscale, experiential dining. With an energetic atmosphere, exceptional service, and the freshest eats, HaSalon nails high-end, upbeat interactive dining. ...

Atlantis Ibiza: Famous for its cliffs and coves, perfect for adventurous activities like cliff diving and snorkeling. Reel: @saltinourhair ...

News Delivered Weekly

We deliver newsletters on Tuesday and Thursday

An error has occurred when signing you up. Please try again later or send us a note at [email protected]

Welcome Aboard

You have successfully registered for the FTT newsletter. Enjoy the journey!

Where to Travel in 2022

'Tis the season to start dreaming of all the trips we want to take next year.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

And just like that, another extraordinary year nears its end. In between wrapping up the rest of 2021 with subdued holiday gatherings and quiet champagne toasts at home, the mind inevitably wanders. To what could be in 2022. To the trips we may finally get to check off that bucket list, whether it's to see the Scottish countryside from a sumptuous train fit for a royal, or to soak in the same ochre-hued New Mexico landscape that so captivated Georgia O'Keeffe for many years. Or to old haunts we just can't wait to visit again with a fresh perspective and peace of mind. Or to the fabulous new hotels ready to welcome us with superb hospitality and plush digs. These are still uncertain times, but we can dream—and tentatively plan—for the future. Below, 17 of the best destinations to put on the travel list for 2022.

Lanai, Hawaii

Overtourism in Hawaii has been a hot button issue in recent years (even more so in 2021 after the idyllic state experienced a major boom in travelers once its borders reopened), and one that was brilliantly satirized in HBO's The White Lotus . So then, how can travelers do Hawaii with a conscience? First, don't add to the strain on Maui and head for much more remote Lanai instead. Back in 2012, Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison bought 98% of the island for $3oo million with the ambition to turn it into an exclusive destination. He then spent another $450 million on the Four Seasons Lanai , filling it with museum-quality art and outposts of Malibu Farm and Nobu, along with all the requisite amenities of a 5-star oceanfront resort. Sans kids and looking to get back in touch with mind, body, and soul? Then head inland to the Four Seasons' sister property, the Sensei Lanai , a 24-acre oasis of tropical flora and verdant hills where the wellness-focused itinerary may include horseback riding, meditation, forest bathing, a thermal body mapping and sleep analysis, and deep soaks in Japanese onsen tubs, with all food courtesy of Nobu.

READ REVIEWS Four Seasons Resort Lanai

READ REVIEWS Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort

Napa Valley, California

Even for those who aren't diehard oenophiles, there is still plenty to do in Napa. In fact, vineyards make up only 9% of the region with the rest—including 53,000 acres that are under the care of the Napa Valley Land Trust—ripe for all manner of outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and hot springs. Brand new in Calistoga is the Four Seasons Napa Valley , which opened in November and is the first resort here to be set within a working winery. Also coming soon, in February, will be a new Auberge Resort called Stanly Ranch , where just 78 cottage suites, all equipped with outdoor terraces with fire pits, will be spread out over a 700-acre private ranch that dates back to the 19th century.

READ REVIEWS Four Seasons Napa Valley

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in the U.S., Santa Fe has rich Native American history, strong Spanish influences, and a vibrant arts scene, from the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum to Canyon Road, a stretch of art galleries featuring a diverse selection (think: Fernando Botero sculptures, handwoven Navajo rugs). Then, there is Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu (an hour's drive from Santa Fe), a 21,000-acre retreat that so impressed O'Keeffe, she lived there for forty years and prominently featured its landscapes in her work. A trip to the city is worth it alone just to check out its hottest new hotel, Bishop's Lodge , a legendary 150-year-old landmark that Auberge Resorts restored into a luxurious property sitting on 317 acres bordering the Santa Fe National Forest. It beautifully pays homage to the city's Southwestern heritage with activities like sunrise horseback riding and guided pueblo tours.

READ REVIEWS Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection

Members of the new pot elite , rejoice. Malta just became the first country in the European Union to legalize marijuana. Not so into the cannabis? As a picturesque archipelago that has served as a filming location for a number of period epics, from Gladiator and Troy , to Munich and Murder on the Orient Express , Malta hardly wants for scenic sights (and FOMO-inducing Instagram backdrops). And having long ago suffered through a succession of invasions—by the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Normans, the Kingdom of Aragon, the French, and the British—the Mediterranean country has a panoply of rich history, culture, and architecture. Stay at the Xara Palace , a former 17th-century palazzo that is now a Relais & Chateaux and the only hotel located in Mdina, the medieval walled city that used to be the island's capital (until 1530) and served as the center of Maltese nobility.

READ REVIEWS The Xara Palace

New York City

After being hit hard during the pandemic in 2020, NYC has been on the rebound ever since, slowly but surely getting back to the bustling and dynamic metropolis it was in the Before Times. By February a brand new Ritz-Carlton opens in Manhattan's NoMad district—and it conveniently fills a gaping hole in the neighborhood left by the abrupt closure of the NoMad Hotel earlier this year. The Ritz will bring on a celebrity chef of its own, José Andrés, who will open an outpost of his popular DC power spot, Zaytinya, plus a high-end restaurant called the Bazaar later in the year. The 250-room hotel will also have the most coveted of NYC hotel amenities: a rooftop bar.

Queen Elizabeth celebrates her platinum jubilee in 2022, and while that may be reason enough to go to London to witness all of the official celebrations that will swirl around Buckingham Palace in June, how about paying tribute to the UK's longest reigning monarch with a pilgrimage through her beloved Scotland? It's not hard to see why she retreats to the Highlands every summer to rest at Balmoral Castle, said to be her favorite palace. But first, start in capital city Edinburgh to marvel at its eclectic mix of medieval and Georgian architecture and then check into the Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel (not to be confused with the queen's pad), for a night or two of 5-star pampering and Michelin-starred dining. Then it's up to the Scottish Highlands and the town of Braemar, which neighbors the queen's Balmoral, to stay at the the Fife Arms , a former Victorian-era coaching inn that was completely transformed by art world power couple Iwan and Manuela Wirth into an absolute jewel box of a property bursting with more than 16,000 works of art. Not so confident about driving on the other side of the road? Enter: the Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train that is quite possibly the most luxuriously appointed way to take in the stunning countryside.

READ REVIEWS The Balmoral

READ REVIEWS The Fife Arms

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is absolute heaven for foodies (musts: the modern twist on Southern cuisine at Husk and Fig , the unbelievably fresh oysters and seafood at 167 Raw and the Ordinary ), history buffs, and architecture nerds. It's probably also one of the most introspective cities in the South, making concerted efforts to confront its painful and complicated past (be sure to check out the South Carolina Historical Society Museum and the Gibbes Museum of Art for important lessons). Right in the heart of the city is the palatial Charleston Place, a Belmond Hotel , a bastion of luxurious Southern hospitality with more than 400 rooms, all outfitted in elegant touches like mahogany beds and marble showers.

READ REVIEWS Charleston Place, a Belmond Hotel

Big Sky, Montana

For a certain subset of the population, the luxury western ranch trip has become a near-obligatory rite of passage in recent years. Montage is just the latest to seize on this opportunity—on December 15, it officially opened the doors to a sprawling new resort in Big Sky, Montana, becoming the first luxury ski hotel to ever be built in this picturesque region. The location is unparalleled. Just 45 minutes north of Yellowstone National Park and surrounded by the Spanish Peaks mountain range. And the list of things to do? Endless: direct access to Big Sky resort's 5,800 acres of ski terrain and to a championship golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, snowshoeing, horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking, the list goes on.

Madrid, Spain

As far as European cities go, it's hard to beat the many charms of Madrid. The Spanish capital has it all: beautiful old world architecture, blue chip museums, amazing food, lovely parks and gardens, great shopping, a wonderful locals' vibe, and royal clout. Just as the iconic Ritz near El Retiro Park was recently converted to a Mandarin Oriental property, so too has Villa Magna, another aging grande dame in need of a refresh, courtesy of Rosewood—in October it officially reopened as the Rosewood Villa Magna . Located in the tony Salamanca neighborhood, the hotel has 154 accommodations, all designed to evoke the feel of a contemporary Spanish villa, and a signature restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jesús Sánchez.

READ REVIEWS Rosewood Villa Magna

Las Vegas, Nevada

What happens in Vegas? Well, that depends what your interests are. With best in class offerings across the board when it comes to dining, shopping, and accommodations, you have to go out of your way to have a disappointing time in the infamous city. For starters, Adele announced her Vegas residency starting in 2022—all the more reason to plan a trip. And if you really want to lean into the Las Vegas experience, book yourself at the Cosmopolitan , smack dab in the lap of luxury and heart of the strip. The hotel has a wide range of cant-be-beat restaurants to choose from including Momofuku, Scarpetta, and Blue Ribbon, as well as expansive rooms and suites designed with a contemporary infusion so there's a calm refuge from whatever hijinks may unfold.

Another great option? The European-inspired Bellagio Hotel and Casino, which offers fine dining options such as Le Cirque and the Mayfair Supper Club, and of course is situated near some of the best luxury shopping the world has to offer.

READ REVIEWS Bellagio Hotel & Casino

READ REVIEWS The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

There are numerous compelling reasons to visit Ireland, whether you're a history buff, love literature (it is the home of William Butler Yeats, James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Sally Rooney after all), or are simply outdoorsy and a golf fanatic. But regardless of your interests, the island is temperate nearly all of the year—and offers unforgettable experiences from scenic drives up the coast, to picturesque national parks, and even unique opportunities to watch the Winter Solstice. However, one cannot miss trip is Adare Manor, just outside of Limerick.

The Neo-Gothic manor was once home to the Earls of Dunraven, but these days, the historic castle is a 5-star luxury resort, surrounded by charming medieval ruins, winding gardens and woodland paths that you could lose yourself on—in the best way possible. Not only are the guest rooms lavishly decorated and fitted with Georgian-era furnishings, but the resort offers a wide range of activities from falconry and golf to clay shooting and fishing.

READ REVIEWS Adare Manor

For years, travelers have flocked to the tiny island of Bermuda, and it's no wonder why. The pristine beaches are known the world over for their soft pink sand, and what's more, travel to the escape is a breeze—just a 90-minute flight from New York City. And two new hotels on the island offer the height of luxury. First there is the St. Regis Bermuda , which opened its doors to vacationers in summer 2021 and is located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can expect a hybrid of avant-garde design with local flare as well as sophisticated touches that are the hallmark of the St. Regis brand. Also on the world class property? A golf-course, a state of the art spa, and a designated children's club for families who visit.

Also new to the island is the luxury boutique hotel the Loren at Pink Beach, which is located on Tucker's Point. With just 45 rooms complete with panoramic views and a Sisley Spa, it's the perfect beachside hideaway when you want to really disappear into the sun and sand.

READ REVIEWS St. Regis Bermuda

READ REVIEWS Loren at Pink Beach

Geneva, Switzerland

On the western edge of Switzerland, surrounded by the Alps, is the serene cobblestone city of Geneva, whose views on Mont Blanc alone are worthy of a visit. While the cosmopolitan area is both home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the Red Cross, the international financial hub makes for a great slow-paced getaway, or dare we say it, a fantastic breather while on a business trip.

First on your list should you visit is the Oetker Collection's latest jewel, the Woodward . Originally built in 1901, the property has been reimagined by Pierre Yves Rochon and boasts two restaurants, the Michelin-starred L'Atelier Robuchon and Le Jardin, a spa appointed by Guerlain, and breathtaking views. There's a reason why they're calling it the lakeside home of haute living.

Palm Beach, Florida

One could argue that Palm Beach is to Eastern Florida, as Cannes is the Riviera. It's been the vacation home and haunt of Swans—with a capital S— for the better part of a hundred years. And with the recent infusion of New York hotspots such as Le Bilboquet and La Goulue i n the last few years, it almost feels as though NYC has been transported to the sandy palm beaches.

Known for it's low-key ambiance and relaxed luxury, The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect place to hit pause. Not only is the property a hop, skip, and a jump from the go-to performing arts venues, but the neighboring area is replete with fantastic shopping and dining should you need a pause from the hotel's five-star spa and seven-acre private beach. It's the kind of place that once you visit, you can't help but make a plan to dash back for more.

READ REVIEWS Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Nambiti, South Africa

While travel to Southern Africa is currently off limits due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a safari in South Africa remains bucket list worthy—just don't book the trip without double-checking travel advisories.

What's worth the wait? The Homestead— the Nambiti Game Reserve's soon-to-be opened luxury safari in one of the most widely biodiverse regions in all of Africa. The Homestead's bespoke safari experiences are also created to hold conservation and sustainability at the highest importance, as made evident by the twelve suite "super luxury" eco lodge accommodations which are entirely solar-powered. Menus are designed by world-renowned chefs, and the food is made with local ingredients—all with the hope of both a positive impact on the planet and those who visit.

Lake Como, Italy

It should come as no surprise that year after year, the gliteratti heads out to the glamorous region in Northern Italy (which also recently made appearances in The Morning Show, Succession, and House of Gucci ). Between exploring the remnants of medieval villages, the opulent villas, and of course, the gorgeous lake, it's no wonder that the locale never goes out of style.

Summer is when the region really shines, and 2022 is the perfect opportunity to make an occasion of it at Villa Passalacqua . Originally built in the 18th century by Count Andrea Lucini Passalacqua (both Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill were known to visit), the stately mansion is the sister property to Grand Hotel Tremezzo , and offers only the best of luxury. Think: 24 suites designed by Paolo, Antonella, and Valentina De Santis, but with a preservation of the original structure in mind. Villa Passalacqua also offers swimming in the lake, an open-air gym in the olive grove, vintage boat trips from a private dock, farm to fork dining and gorgeous manicured gardens.

The Catskills

No, this isn't Dirty Dancing but the Borscht Belt has experienced a serious travel boom in the last two years. From new hotels and inns, to a bountiful supply of AirBnbs, the mountainous region in Southeastern New York is once again an it-destination for the Tri-State area during the summer, for leaf peeping in the fall, and even in the cold months.

Whether you're taking a quick spin around Kaaterskill Falls, heading into Hudson for some antiquing and a bite at Lil' Debs Oasis or just simply taking in everything the region has to offer with a scenic drive, you'll find your days are packed with a wide variety of fun offerings. Fan favorite stays include the Eastwind Hotel and of course Scribner's Catskill Lodge , but if you're looking to lean into the region's retro resort roots, check out Calicoon Hills .

READ REVIEWS Scribner's Catskill Lodge

READ REVIEWS Eastwind Hotel & Bar

READ REVIEWS Calicoon Hills

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel. 

Where to Go Next

The Best Room At... Wynn Las Vegas

Inside the Family Feud That Changed Mexican Travel

The Best Room At... Faraway Nantucket

A Snob's Guide to Napa Valley

A Snob's Guide to Spas Around the World

A Snob's Guide to Medical Spas

A Snob’s Guide to Ayurvedic Spas

A Snob's Guide to Spas on Ships

A Snob’s Guide to Bootcamp Spas

A Snob's Guide to Seriously Sporty Spas

A Snob’s Guide to Nantucket With Kids

Where Was 'House of the Dragon' Filmed?

The 22 Best Places to Go in 2022

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This was the year of getting back out there—as vaccines became readily available in the spring and borders opened slowly throughout the summer and fall, our travel calendars began to fill up once again. Now, as we look ahead to what 2022 has in store, it’s clear that our travel priorities have changed. We’re no longer checking destinations off a list; instead we’re being purposeful about why we choose to take a trip, and thoughtful about how our actions impact local communities while we’re there.

This year’s list of the best places to visit reflects these shifts in thinking: We’ve organized these destinations based on some of our favorite reasons to travel, from exhilarating food and drink scenes and historic sites to explore, to new places to soak in the great outdoors. We hope it makes it easier to plan your next big trip—and helps you narrow down where to go first of the 22 exciting places that made our 2022 list. — Stephanie Wu All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Birmingham, Alabama

Downtown Birmingham is feeling more revitalized than ever, as several historic buildings have been reimagined as restaurants by local chefs. Five-time James Beard finalist Rob McDaniel, who grew up 80 miles from the city, opened contemporary Southern grill Helen in 2020 inside a 1920s shotgun-style building. You can smell his wood-fired meats from the sidewalk, and inside every meal starts with warm angel biscuits topped with whipped cane syrup butter. A block away at The Essential , Southern-bred chef Victor King and pastry chef Kristen Hall have partnered with farmers to serve vegetable-heavy dishes, homemade pastas, and the tastiest desserts in town (look for Parisian-inspired Bar La Fête from the duo in early 2022).

There’s plenty to do downtown as well. The new Urban Supply mixed-use development will bring century-old warehouses in the Parkside neighborhood back to life with restaurants, bars, shopping, and fitness studios when it’s completed in mid-2022. City Walk BHAM is also in the works, adding markets, green spaces, and food trucks to city blocks beneath Interstate 59/20. The project is set to be complete by summer 2022, when the Magic City will serve as the first American host for The World Games , an 11-day, 34-sport event (including tug of war and wheelchair rugby) expected to draw 500,000 spectators. While downtown has its share of big-box hotels for groups, find a quieter stay at Elyton Hotel in a restored historic building, or the boutique Valley Hotel in Homewood, a mere 10 minutes away. —Kelsey Ogletree

Since the dissolution of Yugoslavia 30 years ago, many of its constituent nations (Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro) have emerged as major tourism hubs. Yet Serbia has taken a backseat—until now. Belgrade has earned a reputation as a culinary destination, and the Michelin Guide will soon bestow stars on the city, celebrating its East-meets-West cuisine which draws liberally from neighboring Greek, Turkish, and Central European influences. Standout restaurants include Langouste, run by chef Guillaume Iskandar, whose work at Paris’s Garance earned the place a Michelin star. And the opulent Salon 1905 (pictured) serves a tasting menu with Serbian wine pairings that proves domestic truffles, cheeses, and charcuterie can hold their own against Europe’s best.

The nightlife-rich capital city is often compared to Berlin in the ’90s, but its cool-kid persona is getting a luxe upgrade in 2022 with the opening of a St. Regis. The hotel will be set within a 42-floor tower that will be the tallest skyscraper in the Balkans outside of Istanbul and will anchor the new $3 billion Belgrade Waterfront urban revitalization district, a collection of gleaming high-rises and green spaces.

Meanwhile, Serbia’s second city, Novi Sad, has been named one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2022, marking one of the first non-E.U. cities to receive the honor. A progressive hub of music, art, and literature set along the Danube River, Novi Sad has opened several new venues in preparation for its close-up: a former pasta factory, a silk-dyeing facility, and an 1890s château have been transformed into contemporary art galleries and performance spaces that will host events and exhibitions throughout the year. —Nicholas DeRenzo

Trøndelag County, Norway

Central Norway’s Trøndelag County has become a world-renowned food region in recent years. The area’s diverse landscape—forests, mountains, fjords, and fields—produces high-quality seafood, organic dairy products, and fresh vegetables, which farmers share locally and with restaurants around the world.

Trondheim-Trøndelag was named the European Region of Gastronomy 2022 , and to see what all the fuss is about, food connoisseurs should start at the newly refurbished Britannia Hotel to dine at Michelin-starred Speilsalen , Norway’s Restaurant of the Year 2020. Indulge in head chef Christopher Davidsen’s signature dish, featuring scallops from the island of Frøya fried in organic butter from the town of Røros and served with celery and caviar. Visit Bula Neobistro for chef Renée Fagerhoei’s lamb from Madsøy island with anchovy and green pepper sauce. Stop by chef Heidi Bjerkan’s one-Michelin-star Credo (pictured) for the grilled langoustine tail or langoustine soup, and wrap up your tasting tour at Kraft Bodega , where chef Thomas Bogan serves a delicious dessert of waffles with porcini ice cream, Norwegian apples, and brown cheese—all dishes you won’t find anywhere else.

The region hosts several annual celebrations, like the Trondheim Wine Festival in March, the Trondheim Brewery Festival and the Trøndelag Food Festival , one of Europe’s largest, both in July, and the Trondheim Gin Festival in August. Consider timing your visit around one of these events, where you’re bound to be surrounded by like-minded gourmands. —Kwin Mosby

Alberta, Canada

Alberta’s turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains have always attracted crowds, but there’s a new draw as international travelers return : a spotlight on the area’s Indigenous heritage.

Fort Edmonton Park, Canada’s largest living history museum, is now home to the Indigenous Peoples Experience , a 30,000-square-foot immersive exhibit exploring First Nations and Métis culture. For a deeper dive into the region’s thriving Métis community, head to cultural interpretation center Métis Crossing , which recently debuted its new wildlife park and will open a 40-room boutique lodge accented with Métis artwork this month. Later this winter, the property will also launch Whispers from the Stars, an evening experience where Métis knowledge holders will tell stories of the constellations.

The annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival in the dark sky preserve of Jasper National Park is also including more Indigenous voices in its programming (think drone light shows narrated by Indigenous leaders). Those planning a stay in Jasper can look forward to the June opening of a new 88-room wilderness-themed hotel from local hospitality and attractions company Pursuit .

And Banff has debuted new experiences including the 360° Dome , a private outdoor dining venue at Fairmont Banff Springs that pairs local fare like bison short ribs with Bow Valley views. Next summer, the historic hotel will debut a $28-million renovation of its Royal Suite and Fairmont Gold rooms. Those visiting this winter can cap off the evening at the Banff Gondola with Nightrise, a multi-sensory experience (running December 2 to March 12) that highlights the historical significance of the Stoney Nakoda Nation through multimedia storytelling against a backdrop of alpenglow-drenched mountains. —Julia Eskins

Balearic Islands, Spain

Rugged landscapes, a laidback lifestyle, and Ibiza’s infamous party scene have long drawn travelers to the sun-bleached shores of the Balearic Islands. Over the past year, though, the archipelago off the east coast of mainland Spain has refocused its ambitions toward art.

Last summer’s opening of Hauser & Wirth Menorca (pictured)—a new arts center and the gallery’s latest international outpost—was just the starting point. Located on the historic Illa del Rei in Manorca’s Mahón harbor, the site has taken over an 18th-century naval hospital and outlying buildings. With eight galleries, a restaurant, shop, garden, and an outdoor sculpture trail with works by Frank West, Louise Bourgeois, and Eduardo Chillida, it puts the sleepy Balearic island on the international art map with big-name exhibitions, educational activities, and sustainable initiatives .

Art and design stand out at the archipelago’s new hospitality offerings, too. In Mallorca, Can Ferrereta , a boutique hotel housed in a restored 17th-century building, features a Maison Assouline-curated library and works by local and Spanish artists—Joan Miró, Riera i Aragó, Bárbara Vidal—in all its 32 rooms and communal spaces. On relaxed Formentera, the recently opened Casa Pacha has stylish retro interiors by Patricia Galden Studio and statement decorative objects from local artisans. Meanwhile on the hard-partying isle, the Six Senses Ibiza will feature farm-to-table dining, music, art, wellness, and sustainable fashion, as the Balearics’ first BREEAM -certified resort. 2022’s debuts— El Vicenç de la Mar and the Kimpton Hotel Santa Ponsa , both in Mallorca—are bound to have unique draws of their own. —Marianna Cerini

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston will honor its African roots in a big way in 2022. The long-awaited International African American Museum is slated to open in the fall, and will examine the African diaspora and Charleston’s role housing one of the largest slave ports in the U.S. The museum sits on the hallowed site of said port, Gadsden’s Wharf, where the tide washes in and out near contemplative gardens. The exhibits will tackle centuries of difficult history and highlight contemporary Black artists, while the genealogy center is designed to help visitors connect the past to the present through their own family trees.

Music lovers will have plenty to look forward to at the Spoleto Festival USA , one of the country’s most prestigious classical music events. The opera Omar , which will have its world premiere at Spoleto, explores the life of a Muslim African scholar who was captured on the border of Senegal and Mauritania in 1807 and enslaved in Charleston. Grammy Award winner Rhiannon Giddens co-composed the score with Michael Abels, best known for his work on the films Get Out and Us. Shortly after, the city will join its three main Juneteenth festivals into a bigger and better Lowcountry Juneteenth Experience to wrap up the celebration.

The historic district has plenty of new places to stay, dine, and further explore the city’s origins. Luxury hotel The Loutrel (pictured) is inspired by Charleston’s renowned gardens, with expansive views from its rooftop terrace, and The Residences at Zero George provide longer stays for those who love the elegance of the award-winning hotel. Finally, don’t miss the refined, creative southern dishes at Lenoir , served by James Beard Award winner Vivian Howard, and traditional French cuisine at Brasserie La Banque . —Sarah Enelow-Snyder

Istanbul’s cultural scene is poised for the global spotlight in 2022. Billions of dollars have been poured into urban renewal projects that are finally coming to fruition. “I’ve lived here for 23 years and I can really see a major transformation,” says Karen Fedorko, founder of Sea Song Tours . Travelers can follow the newly established  Beyoğlu Culture Road —a two-hour walking trail that knits together many of the city’s new and restored attractions. Begin at Taksim Square to visit the newly built Taksim Mosque and Atatürk Cultural Center, a once-abandoned 1960s architectural icon that has been faithfully restored to house an opera hall, theater, rooftop restaurant, and a façade where live performances are projected. Strolling down Istiklal Street, pop into the beautified Atlas Cinema and neoclassical Istanbul Cinema Museum  before making your way to the Galata Tower. The medieval stone landmark’s redone rooftop is the place for a view of the city’s fabled east-meets-west skyline. The route culminates at the Bosphorus where Galataport , a new arts and culture hub in the Karaköy neighborhood, touts a newly minted world-class cruise terminal, restaurants from international chefs, a revamped fine arts and sculpture museum , and a refurbished Ottoman clock tower in Tophane Square. Opening late next year along the waterfront is the highly anticipated new home of contemporary art museum Istanbul Modern , whose show-stopping Renzo Piano design will house the works of big-name Turkish artists. Travelers can bed down in the just-opened Bosphorus-facing Mandarin Oriental in Kurucesme (pictured) or the Four Seasons in Sultanahmet, which will reopen in 2022 after significant renovation. Or plan a stay at the Peninsula hotel in Karaköy whose waterside rooms, Turkish baths, and swimming pools will give new life to an old port terminal when it debuts at the end of next year. —Nora Walsh

London will be in a festive mood in 2022 as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee marks 70 years of Her Majesty’s reign. Events honoring Britain’s longest-serving monarch range from solemn services to rollicking celebrations. The biggest party unfurls over a long weekend, from June 2 to 5, where visitors can join the waving crowds lining The Mall for The Queen’s Birthday Parade (also known as Trooping the Colour), cheer for the races at Epsom Downs, and soak up the street carnival atmosphere of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant.

Raffles introduces its first London hotel with The OWO (pictured), which will house 120 guest rooms and 85 private residences in the splendid Old War Office building that once served as Churchill’s headquarters. If it looks familiar, that might be because the OWO has appeared in five James Bond films. In fact, Ian Fleming was inspired to write the Bond stories when he worked in the building as a naval intelligence officer. 

Other new lodging options include The Peninsula London , overlooking Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, and the Lost Property from Curio Collection by Hilton, combining new accommodations with a preserved façade near St. Paul’s Cathedral. And The Audley, a five-story historic pub in Mayfair, reopens in the fall after an art-filled reimagining by the Hauser & Wirth team, complete with a new restaurant and private dining rooms. —Laura Beausire

Querétaro, Mexico

Follow any of the shaded, twisting pedestrian alleys in Querétaro, which sits two-hours north of Mexico City , and you’ll arrive at a flower-drenched plaza, often surrounded by Colonial-era convents, palaces, and 18th-century homes, many of which have been converted to modern destination restaurants that rival those of the country’s capital.

Founded by the Otomí people in the 15th century, this city is a crossroads of Indigenous cultures, but has also served as a major base for Franciscan missionaries, a center for silver wealth, and a political seat—in 1917, regional representatives created and signed the country’s constitution. Though Querétaro’s international importance has faded since, its beauty and Baroque architecture remain.

The mid-17th-century Templo y Convento de la Santa Cruz anchors the historic city center, and its recent preservation effort earned Querétaro a nomination for UNESCO’s Jean-Paul L’Allier Prize in 2020, which honors exemplary urban cultural heritage conservation. This might just be the only place in the world where tech and aerospace workers commute on roads that weave under the slim arches remaining from a 1738 aqueduct.

Despite a slow two years during the pandemic and recent flooding, the city is growing as a tourist destination, with new hotels under construction that signal a wider opening to international travelers. One unique offering is already available to book: After sales fell because of COVID, a cheese factory outside of town kept its workers safely on the job by employing them to build the Hotel de Tierra : nine rammed-earth rooms, sustainably built from and on the soil of its adjacent vineyard, Tierra de Alonso. —Naomi Tomky

Rapa Nui, Chile

Some 2,300 miles off the coast of Chile in the South Pacific Ocean, UNESCO-listed Rapa Nui is famous for its roughly 900 monolithic moai stone statues sprinkled across the island. Now, just in time for a major anniversary, the world’s most remote inhabited island is preparing to open its borders after almost two years of isolation.

2022 marks 300 years since Dutch explorers arrived on Rapa Nui’s shores on Easter Day, which is how the 64-square-mile volcanic landmass acquired the appellation Easter Island. Locals, however, trace their lineage to a thriving Polynesian civilization dating back to the 4th century and take great pride in their native Rapa Nui language and culture, which has experienced a renaissance during the pandemic. And with less food being brought to the island, there was a boom in ancestral agriculture, yielding a bounty of guava and taro root. Some sustainability-oriented initiatives are in place as well, including proposals to limit the number of visitor arrivals to protect its cultural assets from erosion. When the island reopens to fully vaccinated tourists in February, be the first to stay at the newly branded Nayara Hangaroa , where self-drive ATV tours allow guests to take in iconic attractions like the Ranu Kau crater, moai sites at Rano Raraku quarry and Ahu Tongariki, the Orongo ceremonial village, and Anakena beach at their own leisure. For a complete cultural immersion, tap Abercrombie & Kent for local guides, a traditional meal in a friendly home, and insider’s access to the two-week-long Tapati Festival held every February. —N.W.

When Portuguese sailors first landed on what is now Cape Verde in 1456, they arrived to a largely untouched archipelago devoid of inhabitants and with few natural resources. This remote group of islands—located 369 nautical miles west of Senegal —soon became a stopping point in the transatlantic slave trade, resulting in the unique blend of Portuguese and West African traditions and heritage (many of today’s residents have roots tracing back to each) that exist on the island today.

This year, Hurtigruten Expeditions will launch sailings to the island country, beginning with a 14-day journey aboard its 180-passenger MS Spitsbergen in November. The company is scheduled to be the only expedition cruise to visit Cape Verde this year—and it’s also their first-ever trip to Africa . The ship will make stops at some of the archipelago’s most notable islands (there are 10 in total, as well as several islets), including Santo Antão, with its hikable misty pine forests and steep-cliff canyons, and Fogo, home to the awe-inspiring (and still-active) 9,281-foot-tall Pico do Fogo volcano, western Africa’s highest peak. For those who aren’t on a cruise, an inter-island ferry system and relatively inexpensive domestic flights makes island-hopping doable, too.

And you’ll want to explore on land: Known for its laid-back vibe and innate hospitality, Cape Verde is considered an LGBTQ+ oasis within Africa thanks to progressive laws. Mindelo, on the island São Vicente, hosts an annual Pride parade that will take place in the summer. As Cape Verde’s cultural capital, this colorful port city is a great place to catch performances of morna, a locally honed, melancholic music symbolizing longing for the African mainland, as well as the rousing tunes of accordion-based funaná . Listen from new Mansa Floating Hub , a futuristic-style floating music center that opened in August atop Mindelo’s Porto Grande Bay. —Laura Kiniry

The Great Lakes

The Great Lakes comprise 95,000 square miles of freshwater flanked by thick forests, historic sights, and skyline-speckled cities. But despite the waterside attractions, this stretch of the upper Midwest and Canada has long been off the cruise-industry map. Soon, those tides will turn.

In spring 2022, Viking’s posh new Octantis expedition ship will sail from Milwaukee, Wisconsin , to Toronto and Thunder Bay, Ontario, meandering by Great Lakes gems such as Mackinac Island and Sleeping Bear Dunes. The vessel, crafted for Viking’s new Antarctic voyages, welcomes up to 378 guests; it’s the largest Great Lakes cruise option to date.

For something more intimate, French cruise operator Ponant and partner Smithsonian Journeys will unveil their own Great Lakes voyages in fall 2022. Itineraries on ships like the 184-guest Le Bellot run from Toronto to Milwaukee, with a stop at Niagara Falls along the way. Ponant and Viking will share these waterways with small-ship cruise outfitters like Pearl Seas Cruises (pictured), Hapag-Lloyd Cruises , and Plantours Cruises .

Thanks to new infrastructure and accommodations, Great Lakes port cities stand ready to host disembarking guests. Milwaukee will debut several new hotels in 2022, including the Kinn Guesthouse MKE Downtown and The Adams Hotel , while Canada cruise hub Toronto has eight new openings on the docket, including a W Hotel . —Stephanie Vermillion

Kyushu, Japan

The southernmost of Japan’s four major islands, Kyushu is known for its vibrant food culture, abundance of historical sites , subtropical climate, and laid-back reputation.

Despite its seemingly remote location, Kyushu is surprisingly accessible, both by air via Japan’s many domestic carriers and by Shinkansen (bullet train). A flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, clocks in at just under two hours, while a train trip from Shin-Osaka Station to Fukuoka’s Hakata Station takes roughly two and a half.

Kyushu’s rail network will receive a notable boost when the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen, connecting the historic port city of Nagasaki with Takeo Onsen in Saga prefecture, opens in the fall. Foreigners can take advantage of highly discounted rail passes throughout Kyushu, with unlimited rides on all trains operated by the JR Kyushu Railway Company .

Onsen lovers have plenty to choose from in Kyushu as well—hot springs are dotted everywhere from the famed black sand beaches of Ibusuki in Kagoshima prefecture to the rural enclave of Yufuin in Oita. In the summer, Hoshino Resorts will open Kai Yufuin , a luxury property designed by famed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, featuring 45 guest rooms in the remote onsen town.

Those looking for a bit more adventure should head to the city of Sasebo in Nagasaki prefecture for a luxury catamaran cruise around the Kujuku Islands. Some packages include meals, but there’s also the option to seek out a Sasebo Burger , a popular item whose influence is traced back in part to the large number of American service members who arrived in the city after World War II. —Kat Bee

2021 marked Uzbekistan’s 30th anniversary of independence from the Soviet Union, just as a slew of new projects set the foundation for the country to be more accessible than ever.

The new airport terminal at Samarkand, opening this month, is a beautiful introduction to the Islamic architecture style found throughout Uzbekistan. The center of the airport is shaped like an open book in a nod to the work of astronomer Mirzo Ulugbek. The high-speed train network, which opened in 2012, is being extended to the ancient Silk Road town of Khiva in 2022, so visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site from the capital city of Tashkent no longer requires hours in a car weaving through desert dunes. A number of exciting openings and events are also set to take place next year, with the unveiling of the Silk Road Samarkand Complex . It will house restaurants, cafes, and boutique hotels including the 22-story Samarkand Regency Hotel, the country’s first five-star stay, in the first half of 2022. The first-ever Silk Road Literary Festival will also take place there in the fall, as well as the grand reopening of the renovated State Museum of Arts , designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando. —Michelle Tchea

In Gabon , where dense rainforests spill onto serene tropical coasts, tourism has barely made a whisper. But adventure seekers, nature lovers, and environmental advocates who visit will find incredible biodiversity, and a country determined to put critical conservation and eco-tourism projects in place before the masses arrive.

With over 70 percent of its territory covered in forest, Gabon has already made its mark in the world of conservation. Over the last two decades, the government has secured 15 percent of its land as protected areas and established 13 national parks , nine marine parks, and 11 aquatic reserves, safeguarding the country’s magnificent wildlife and habitats. With the launch of the African Ecotourism Safari project in March 2021 and the anticipated opening of Petit Loango Lodge in early 2022—the first of the African Conservation Development Group ’s sustainable luxury lodges—the equatorial African nation’s exquisite landscapes are gradually becoming more accessible to adventurous travelers.

Beyond the reaches of Loango, find leatherback turtles nesting in sand dunes along the shores of Pongara National Park, spot whales spouting among crashing blue waves in Mayumba, climb verdant mountains and staggering cliffs in Bateke Plateau, explore historic caves and savanna in Birougou, and marvel over waterfalls plunging into the rapids of the blackwater rivers in Ivindo National Park. You’ll also find low-impact tented camps throughout the country, everywhere from Moabi Tented Camp amid the rolling savanna of Lope National Park, to Pongara Lodge on the pristine beaches and mangrove swamps of the namesake national park on the Atlantic Coast. —Alicia Erickson

Sicily, Italy

Last year, the buzz around Italy's largest island was the opening of two flashy resorts: Villa Igiea in Palermo and the Four Seasons on the east coast. Both are spectacular, but you’d be missing the point of a trip to Sicily if you spent the entire time holed up there. Consider the properties as bookends to a trip exploring the core of the region, where slow-living traditions hum on—and are becoming increasingly dependent on outside visitors to survive. United's long-awaited direct flight from Newark to Palermo may finally launch this year, making the destination easier for Americans to reach than ever before.

South of the Four Seasons in the beautiful, Baroque town of Noto , the regal Seven Rooms is where to stay after dinners of fettuccine ai funghi at Manna and a late night passeggiata with locals past the grand cathedrals. This coming summer, its team will open a small retreat on the nearby seaside (the exact location is yet to be announced). A 15-minute drive away in Ragusa, the cheerful Maria Guastella is one of the only sfilato Siciliano embroiderers keeping what was once a grand Sicilian artform alive, and her workshop is open for visitors. Just down the hill is Rosso Cinabro, the last artisan carettiere (cart maker) whose hand-carved and -painted wagons tell a story of the destination centuries ago.

Heading west, the millenia-old temples at Agrigento are also unmissable. Base yourself nearby in Fontes Episcopi , a divine eco-retreat with an ivy-draped courtyard and a lively farm kitchen; in February, it will open three new stand-alone suites with skylights and terraces just behind the pool and orchards. Closer to Palermo, the men in rainboots working the salt flats by Trapani showcase a tradition increasingly threatened by industrial engineering. Watching them work is extraordinary—like so many of the experiences in Sicily, it is a reminder that often the most important reason to go somewhere is to preserve what has always been there. —Erin Florio

For years, Singapore has attracted those at the forefront of finance, technology, and business. Now, a 10-year push to transform the republic into a sustainable city promises to lure more eco-explorers—especially now that vaccinated U.S. travelers no longer have to quarantine upon arrival. Efforts are already underway: At the new ABC Waters at Jurong Lake in Singapore’s west, visitors can discover 12,000 square feet of man-made wetlands via sleek wooden walkways that wend toward expansive views of the lake and the occasional glimpse of otters, Malayan water lizards, and jewel-hued tropical birds. Meanwhile, the Rail Corridor—a cross-country rewilding project and nature trail—recently saw the launch of a central 2.5-mile stretch dotted with relics like the hauntingly solitary Bukit Timah Railway Station office, built in 1932 and abandoned in 2011 when the line was decommissioned.

The plushest beds in town will be at the Raffles Sentosa Resort & Spa when it opens in 2022, 135 years after the original Raffles Hotel was established. An all-villa sanctuary, it will house 61 butlered villas amid more than a million square feet of tropical gardens. But there are other options for a fresh green perspective, like the new wellness-focused Oasia Resort (pictured), where you can dine on locally farmed barramundi and get a massage with recycled coffee grounds. And those seeking a getaway that’s even more embedded in nature will soon be able to set up camp at Singapore’s first off-grid accommodation by Sentosa Development Corporation on the uninhabited southern Islands. —Audrey Phoon

Tropical Honduras , an under-the-radar divers ’ and bird-watchers ’ paradise, is fast becoming a hot spot for eco-conscious travelers.

The Cayos Cochinos Foundation —a nonprofit based in its namesake archipelago off Honduras's Caribbean coast—is one of the many sustainability organizations prioritizing the protection of Honduras's rainforests and barrier reefs . The archipelago is already famous for its cerulean waters, white-sand beaches, and spectacular freediving, but in 2022 the Foundation will launch eco-tours allowing travelers to participate in reef cleanup, spot pink boas on hikes, and join scientists in monitoring turtles.

Back on the mainland, zip-line through 400 acres of pristine rainforest in Rawacala Eco Park , which will launch two new hiking trails and bird-watching platforms alongside a revamp of their zip-line systems in 2022. After exploring Copán’s Mayan ruins , visit the nearby Paseo de los Girasoles , a sunflower plantation put in to improve grazing conditions. Visitors will soon be able to enjoy its new farm-to-table café, pergolas, and hammocks—just try to visit before everyone on Instagram catches wind of this photo-friendly spot.

For eco-friendly accommodations, try Rawacala Eco Park’s sister property, Paraiso Rainforest & Beach Hotel , or its new venture, Paraiso Boutique Hotel, opening in 2022 on Utila . The property—which will offer eco-tours through the Cayos Cochinos Foundation—will employ solar panels and recycle rainwater, in addition to reducing plastic waste by favoring local produce. The Grand Roatán Resort will also reopen as a Kimpton mid-2022 with living green walls, a reverse osmosis water generation plant, and a new spa. —Eva Sandoval

Seemingly little more than a few specks on a map of the Adriatic, the island nation of Malta has felt like a well-kept secret among European travelers—it’s accessible, just an hour by plane or ferry from Sicily, and its crystalline waters, surrounded by fossil-studded limestone cliffs, are prime for summer sunbathing and year-round scuba diving. Along the coast, there are a whopping 80 wrecks to dive, and the Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit is dedicated to maintaining them. There’s a cultural draw, too, as Arabic, Italian, French, British, and Norman influences intertwine in ancient fortified cities, with a cuisine, traditions, and language unlike any other in the region. The island was first inhabited prior to 5000 B.C., after all, with ancient megalithic temples—like Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim—where visitors can see its storied past.

This might just be the year the destination becomes less of a secret. In 2021, Viking Cruises launched three new itineraries departing from Malta that sailed the Adriatic and Mediterranean, and the cruise line plans to add additional sailings from Malta in 2023. On land—yet still close to the water—three notable properties have opened, including a Hyatt Regency and Marriott Hotel & Spa in the beach town of St. Julian’s, and the decadent Iniala Harbour House in the capital city of Valletta. New transportation, including a recently launched speed ferry, makes it easier than ever to get from the island of Valletta to Gozo. And as for the food scene? Two more Malta restaurants were added to the Michelin Guide in 2021, including ION at Iniala, for a total of five in the country of less than 500,000 lucky residents. —Megan Spurrell

Copa Airlines’ popular Panama Stopover program is back, allowing travelers to add a one- to seven-day stopover en route to 36 destinations in South America at no extra cost. There are fewer Americans here than in neighboring Costa Rica, and with hundreds of islands on both the Caribbean and Pacific sides, you won’t be fighting for beach real estate. Make like the mammals and freshwater fauna of the Pliocene era, who migrated between North and South America when the isthmus of Panama formed, and linger awhile to explore Panama’s biodiverse jungles and beaches.

Bocas del Toro is a must-visit, with sprawling beaches that never feel too crowded and turquoise waters home to 95 percent of the coral species found in the Caribbean Sea. Memorable wildlife encounters include nighttime snorkeling in bioluminescent waters and exploring the subterranean lakes of Nivida Bat Cave with the help of headlamps and a knowledgeable guide from Hello Travel Panama .

The mountainous region of Chiriquí is equally enchanting, between its beaches and highlands, where active Volcán Barú looms large. Check in at the new 10-room boutique hotel Finca El Oasis and leave at midnight to hike the summit by daybreak for a panoramic sunrise above the clouds. Fuel your hike with locally grown coffee that you can’t find back home, like Chiriquí’s highly valued Geisha coffee. If a hike sounds too intense, there are off-road tours to the top of the volcano too, and canopy zip-lining right on the property. —Amber Gibson

Sumba, Indonesia

With millions of tourists Eat Pray Love -ing their way around Bali every year, it has become increasingly difficult to find a quiet beach or a waterfall without a gaggle of snap-happy travelers nearby. If you’re after a post-pandemic trip of quietude and untamed wilderness, you’re better off hopping on a 50-minute turboprop flight headed east from Bali, to Sumba.

About twice Bali’s size with only a fraction of its crowds, this rugged island is often compared to Bali before its tourism boom. Here, you’re more likely to share sugar-white beaches with grazing sandalwood ponies, and nosy dolphins will often be the only creatures you’re riding a wave with. And there’s more to love: hike through frozen-in-time hilltop villages bookended by ancient stone megaliths, swim in glassy lagoons, and bear witness to pasola, a boisterous ceremonial spear fighting competition (not for the faint of heart), typically scheduled between February and mid-March.

Though Nihi Sumba put the island on the map for deep-pocketed surfers back in 2012, a new crop of boutique resorts now make a five-star visit slightly more affordable. Opened in April 2020, Alamayah combines six rattan-wrapped suites with an Ayurvedic spa and Turkish hammam, plus a restaurant where plant-based dishes and remedial potions by an in-house herbalist take center stage. Mid-2022, Cap Karoso will open a small village of 47 suites and 20 beachfront villas on Sumba’s western tip. Its design melds the French owners’ Parisian flair with Sumbanese ikat and carved wood panels, while the resort’s organic farm will double as an agricultural school and artist atelier. With these hotels making efforts towards sustainable tourism development (Cap Karoso partnered with southwest Sumba’s governor for a 2022 launch of the Kodi Reserve, a coral restoration and reforestation program), the island is unlikely to follow in Bali’s trampled footsteps anytime soon. —Chris Schalkx

West Virginia

Our collective obsession with the outdoors this past year turned out to be fortuitous timing for West Virginia: Last December’s $2.3 trillion stimulus package redesignated the New River Gorge as America’s newest—and the state’s first—national park and preserve in an effort to promote tourism. Comprising some 73,000 acres, the park features 1,000-foot-high sandstone cliffs for climbing, 53 miles of river for whitewater rafting, and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, which you can traverse on a guided trek across its 24-inch-wide catwalk.

But it’s not just national parks that benefited: West Virginia state parks are on track to hit a record 10 million visitors this year, and lawmakers approved $42 million in budget surplus for infrastructure improvements, including 20 new cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest and 25 new tree house cabins at Beech Fork State Park. Meanwhile, the new Elk River Rail Trail in central West Virginia is transforming an old railroad line once used to transport coal into a hiking and biking path that, at an eventual 74 miles, will be one of the longest trails east of the Mississippi.

If you need a little more comfort during your stay, the Hotel Morgan recently reopened in Morgantown. The space dates back to 1925 and has hosted the likes of Harry Truman and Eleanor Roosevelt. Next up is the new Schoolhouse Hotel in White Sulphur Springs, which will open in the town’s 1912 high school building. Financed by the Disability Opportunity Fund, the boutique property is being hailed as the world’s first fully accessible hotel, with each of the 30 rooms and suites designed to accommodate wheelchair users. —N.D.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Best Places to Travel in 2022

Where will 2022 take you below, you’ll find 39 destinations—from abu dhabi to alberta, canada—where your visit will really count. locals tell us what’s new, exciting, and worth the trip in the coming year..

• Copy Link copied

Where to Go Next. It feels good to write those words. After a long pause, travel is returning. Borders are reopening, families are reuniting, and deferred dreams are becoming realities. As 2022 approaches, are you eagerly and excitedly plotting out your next 12 months of trips? Or maybe you’re still just fantasizing about travel, unsure about where you’ll go next and when.

To inspire all your travel hopes and wishes, we’ve collected 39 love letters to various places, written by the people who know them best: locals. How did we decide what to spotlight? We focused on the lesser-known sides of a destination (Abu Dhabi and Taiwan); spots where your visit could really count (Turkana, Kenya, and Ten Thousand Islands, Florida); and those cities that could use a little love on the heels of 2020 and 2021 ( Chicago and Copenhagen ). As always, we tell these stories through the lens of travel as a force for good: more inclusive, conscientious, and sustainable. Cheers to a year of getting out there again. —Julia Cosgrove, editor in chief

1. Russian River Valley, California

The gods of climate change made some of their first displays of power in this slice of rural california, where there’s much to love and much to protect.

The Bay Area is still lovable in its fleece-wearing Tesla millionaire kind of way, but—local secret here—the region’s faded old river towns have long been the heart of our most quintessential Northern California-ness. The addled trappings of modern life fall away at the first quake of the aspens. What remains is a refreshingly purer iteration of the human spirit, miles from the venture-funded sleekness of San Francisco.

Here, at a lazy bend in the shimmering Russian River, a wiry man in a milk jug raft drifts past singing Puccini. Explore farther and you’ll discover a five-and-dime on Main Street in Guerneville. Join a barbecue at the Monte Rio firehouse. Feel the gentle purling of the river under your butt as your inner tube floats vaguely west, not a care in the world except not spilling that beer someone tossed you.

The Lower Russian River Valley has long inhabited a slower, more analog era that’s left room for funky charms to take root. The passage of time seemed to just sort of overlook this region—at least until now.

For the full story from Chris Colin, read The True Heart of California’s Bay Area Is in the Russian River Valley .

2. Chicago, Illinois

The windy city is roaring back from the pandemic, thanks to its entrepreneurial spirit and strong sense of pride.

In the aftermath of the Great Fire, which razed more than 2,000 acres of central Chicago in 1871, leaving nearly 100,000 homeless, one resident, William D. Kerfoot, displayed a hand-painted sign that read” “all gone but wife, children and energy. I have been thinking about Kerfoot since the pandemic. But not before a full year of questioning why I still lived in Chicago when everything I loved about it—the theater, music, sports, and dining scenes, as well as the 26-mile lakefront—was closed or verboten.

As the city has been slowly reopening, I have been reminded of Kerfoot’s outlook. Jazz musicians started holding “step sessions” on neighborhood porches, encouraging residents to BYO and use virtual tip jars. They’re planning to return to porches in spring 2022. Entrepreneurs renovated an RV as Majostee Spa , a mobile nail salon making home visits. Stephanie Hart, owner of Brown Sugar Bakery , recognized the need for comfort food during the pandemic; now the baker is looking to open a shop for her famed cupcakes at O’Hare International Airport, where she can, as she puts it, “export a little bit of my African American neighborhood and inspire [people] to come to 75th Street and see everything we’re serving.”

“Chicago sees itself, since the fire, as a city able to withstand whatever,” said Shermann Dilla Thomas, a historian who offers guided city tours. “It also makes us a city that doesn’t believe in small plans. After you get a blank canvas, the sky’s the limit.”

For the full story from Elaine Glusac, read As the Pandemic (Hopefully) Wanes, Chicago Is Back and Stronger Than Ever .

3. Métis Crossing, Alberta, Canada

Alberta’s first métis cultural destination was conceived, built, and operated by métis people to tell their story—and in 2022 it’s getting a huge expansion.

I was about 12 years old when I first met my birth mother and discovered that I was Métis. I saw her several times after that, and though we never discussed why I grew up in foster care, she frequently reiterated that we were both Métis. I’ve spent years trying to figure out exactly what that meant and why it was so important.

Since the 18th century, the French word métis has described individuals in Canada with mixed Indigenous and European ancestry. In Canada’s early years, French and Scottish fur traders married First Nations women of Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Cree, and other cultural backgrounds, and soon the Métis Nation was born. The Métis were known for hunting, trapping, and fur trading, and in 1982 they became one of the three groups of recognized Indigenous Peoples of Canada .

Métis Crossing , which opened in 2005 on the river lots—the riverside settlements home to the earliest settlers in this part of Alberta—is a fascinating place to learn about Métis culture, traditions, and beliefs. There’s a campground with comfortably furnished trappers’ tents, and in 2019, a large Cultural Gathering Centre was built to host educational programs. When I visited in fall 2021, I wanted a cultural experience, and I also wanted to embrace my own Indigenous roots.

For the full story from Debbie Olsen, read Discover a Side of Indigenous Canada at Métis Crossing, Newly Expanding in 2022 .

4. Portland, Jamaica

Avoid the crowds and head to a serene shoreline and the birthplace of jerk chicken.

I escaped my tiny living quarters in Long Island, New York, for rural Robins Bay in Jamaica in September 2020. On weekends, I explore. My favorite discovery is the parish of Portland on the island’s northeast coast, which—unlike Montego Bay and Ocho Rios with many tourists—offers flourishing rain forests, laid-back beaches, and a vibe of soon come, no hurry, no worries. . . .

I have a particular soft spot for Winnifred Beach, where neighbors and families go to relax. Food vendors and artists sell their wares from small shops, made from zinc and wood, and despite the lull in business during the pandemic, dancehall and reggae still boom. Nothing stops the party. If it’s Saturday, true to tradition, somebody is quite likely cooking (and sharing) chicken foot soup. Another favorite ocean retreat is Frenchman’s Cove, where flowing water from the Blue Mountains creates a dramatic canopy of tropical greenery by a white-sand beach. Further south, Reach Falls is beloved for its underwater cave, natural heart-shaped pool reminiscent of a Jacuzzi, mountain views, and lush vegetation.

For the full story from Sheryl Nance-Nash, read Find the ‘Real’ Jamaica in This Laid-Back Neighborhood .

5. Arica and Parinacota, Chile

Local textiles, llamas, and the world’s oldest mummies are among the reasons to visit northern chile..

When travelers plan trips to the desiccated salt flats and cloud-hugging lagoons of the world’s driest desert, the Atacama, most end up in the resort town of San Pedro. Yet 400 miles north lies a refreshing alternative: Chile’s Arica and Parinacota region.

The main reason to go is to explore a new UNESCO World Heritage site created in July 2021 that honors the Chinchorro culture. These hunter-gatherers crafted the world’s oldest mummies, covering their deceased with clay masks and flowing wigs some 7,000 years ago (2,000 years before the ancient Egyptians). A tourist circuit now unites 19 archaeological sites along the Pacific coast and passes six roadside Chinchorro statues designed by local artists Paola Pimentel and Johnny Vásquez. Meanwhile, the mummy museum in Azapa Valley is preparing for a multimillion-dollar revamp to be completed by 2024.

The 143-mile trip from lowland Arica to highland Parinacota follows another new tourist trail: Ruta de las Misiones. The route includes dozens of hamlets inhabited by the Aymara people, many featuring whitewashed adobe churches and handcrafted alpaca textiles from Indigenous artisans such as Julia Cañari. Putre is the largest of these villages. At an altitude of 11,500 feet, you can acclimatize here for expeditions into the volcano-studded Lauca National Park , llama-filled Las Vicuñas National Reserve , or the blindingly white Salar (salt flat) de Surire , where the hot springs come with views of pink flamingos. —Mark Johanson

6. Acadia National Park, Maine

New england’s sylvan wonderland is filled with winding trails and history lessons.

It’s easy to get away from people amid the 47,000 acres of Acadia National Park , where the jagged Maine coast cuts into the Atlantic. But no matter where you go, you’re surrounded by historical figures. The intricate carriage trails around Mount Desert Island, where much of the park is situated, were commissioned by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the early 1900s. Many of the island’s other trails were built as part of a New Deal–era Civilian Conservation Corps public works project in the 1930s.

Stone stairs that seem almost magically carved into the mountainside form parts of Homans Path, a trail named for Eliza Homans. She was a wealthy widow and longtime summer resident who, in 1908, first gifted part of the land that would become the park. The 140-acre spread Homans bequeathed includes one of Acadia’s most treacherous and rewarding hikes, the Beehive—a short but steep climb up a cliff face, with a payoff view of Sand Beach and the Atlantic coastline.

Mount Desert Island’s lake and ponds are another plus. For most of the summer, you can jump off the rocks at Echo Lake Ledges or hike to the distant parts of Long Pond, where you’ll be rewarded with crystal clear water and, often, few other swimmers in sight. —Sally Kohn

7. Houston, Texas

In 2022, space city offers distinct dining and art options that celebrate its diverse communities.

As one of the nation’s most multiethnic cities, with some 145 languages spoken, Houston is full of culinary and cultural innovation. MasterChef winner Christine Ha’s restaurant Blind Goat deliciously showcases the city’s Vietnamese community, while the local chain Tacos A Go Go represents some of the best of its Latinx options. (Be sure to try all the tacos while you’re in town: corn tacos filled with barbacoa; shrimp tacos; and migas tacos, a Tex-Mex staple made with scrambled eggs and jalapeños).

For a taste of Houston’s Black-owned restaurants, book a table at Lucille’s , where the celebrated chef Chris Williams turns out fine Southern cuisine (catfish and grits, fish fry, and liver and onions). If you’re craving comfort food, head to Breakfast Klub .

Don’t miss a trip to the Third Ward (the neighborhood where Beyoncé and Solange Knowles were raised). There you’ll find the Houston Museum of African American Culture , which recognizes the achievements of Black Americans. Another essential stop: Project Row Houses , a site encompassing five city blocks that has been serving Houston’s artists of color for three decades. It presents programming that preserves and elevates Black culture and community, regularly running exhibitions and events while supporting young people and small businesses. —Kayla Stewart

8. Charlotte, North Carolina

North carolina’s largest city is turning into an essential food destination, with tempting options across different neighborhoods.

If you asked someone a few years ago what Charlotte is known for, they might have said it’s one of the country’s biggest banking spots. But the city is fast becoming appreciated for its growing culinary scene.

Take the James Beard Award–nominated chef Greg Collier and his wife and business partner, Subrina. In 2020, the restaurateurs opened Leah & Louise , a modern-day juke joint in Charlotte’s creative hub, Camp North End . The cuisine honors their Southern roots: fried oyster sliders and slow-roasted cabbage with pork neck bisque. The pair have a special place in my heart, as they helped found Soul Food Sessions, a pop-up dinner series featuring Black chefs and mixologists.

Exciting new businesses are opening regularly. In September 2021, cocktail connoisseur Tamu Curtis opened the Cocktailery for classes and tastings in the city’s Atherton Mill retail center. In 2022, Ricky Ortiz, the Mexico-born owner of Tacos Rick-O , will expand his food empire beyond his taco truck at Hoppin’ —a self-service beer, wine, and cider spot in South End—with a new concept based on Spanish desserts in the NoDa arts and entertainment district.

“Charlotte’s not just football and finance,” Greg Collier insists. “This ain’t just the cookie-cutter, vanilla shell South . . . It’s a place full of aspirations, mind-blowing creatives, good cooking, and possibilities.” —DeAnna Taylor

9. Anguilla

One of the caribbean’s smallest islands punches above its weight.

With 33 beaches, several islands and cays, and more than 100 restaurants, Anguilla packs a lot into its 35 square miles.

Start by hopping on American Airlines’ new direct flight from Miami into Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport. You’ll disembark mere minutes from any one of the island’s beaches, a string of seductive white-sand scallops lapped by blue water. On Meads Bay, check in to Tranquility Beach, a collection of 15 suites (all with kitchens) that preside over sand resembling powdered sugar and offering magnificent sunset views. Close by is the Hummingbird , a charming cottage studio that’s a perfect choice for solo travelers.

For lunch, try Ken’s BBQ in Anguilla’s capital, The Valley, where they have been cooking fall-off-the-bone tender ribs for more than 20 years. Don’t forget to finish the meal with a Johnny cake or two. If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, end the day with cocktails at Four Seasons Anguilla ’s ocean-view Sunset Lounge, then continue to dinner at beachfront classic Blanchards, where you should sample the grilled Anguillian crayfish.

The next day, if cerulean seas beckon, charter a catamaran to take you from Crocus Bay to Little Bay, a compact cove you might have all to yourself. —Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

10. Bermuda

Look beyond bermuda’s pink-sand beaches and explore black history on the islands..

Famous for its blush-colored beaches and the shorts, Bermuda has long been a traveler’s dream, but this 21-square-mile archipelago nestled in the North Atlantic also offers a substantial measure of Black culture and history. In 2020, it became one of the first places in the world to honor a Black woman with a public holiday; Mary Prince Day celebrates the formerly enslaved Bermudian who became the first Black woman in England to publish her own narrative, the seminal 1831 book The History of Mary Prince .

Visitors to the islands can follow the African Diaspora Heritage Trail , which includes museums, monuments, and even a seaside cave connected to Bermuda’s Black past. For an experience that showcases both food and history, book Kristin White’s bike tour through the cobblestone streets of St. George’s , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Or on your own, walk past the candy-colored buildings of the capital city, Hamilton, and pop into the Griot bookstore , a sunlit, art-adorned space that sells works by authors of African descent. Pick up a cold-pressed elixir at the mural-covered Om Juicery (locals are partial to “Bountiful” and “Dancing”). In the reef-hugging Sandys Parish, Buna Gallery and Coffee House serves up Ethiopian brews, live music, and local art exhibits in a stylish setting. Settle in and stay awhile. —Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

11. Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico

Yucatán’s welcoming capital city offers a sensory experience on every corner.

Each evening, as the sun begins to settle into its slumber, Mérida comes to life. Nightfall offers a respite from the sweltering heat of the day. Families gather in the zócalo for cultural performances. The city’s main drag, Paseo de Montejo, is lined with tables where patrons delight in nibbles and tipples. Elderly couples salsa dance in the park as if no one is watching, and if you walk down any of the main streets in the Centro neighborhood, you’ll hear the thrums and drums of bachata beats from beyond the swinging doors of local cantinas.

Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, revels in permanent celebration, and the city invites you to do the same, to find joy in simple pleasures. It’s a place where diversity extends beyond what to do, see, and eat. LGBTQ travelers, for example, can find nightlife in Centro and spend evenings vibing to live music at Cadadía Bar Café .

Visitors to the city will quickly discover the “Mérida magic” that everyone speaks of—that inexplicable sense of happiness, peace, and community found here. It may be the deep-rooted culture and rich gastronomic heritage that draws people to the colonial city; for me, it was the Mérida magic that turned my three-month visit into home for the foreseeable future. —Colby Holiday

12. Washington, D.C.

Wander around the new waterfront and taste your way through the revitalized capital city.

Washington, D.C., is so much more than its reputation as the center of U.S. politics. It’s a welcoming, walkable city with residents and regions as culturally diverse as the international embassies that line Massachusetts Avenue. Over the past decade, the city has transformed several neighborhoods—the H Street Corridor, Brookland, NoMa, Shaw, and the LGBTQ-friendly Logan Circle. The flourishing food scene attracts locals and visitors to such neighborhood anchors as Tortino (which serves elevated Italian dishes) and the Dabney , a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in farm-to-table American fare.

But the District’s newest star is the Wharf , where the second phase of a $2.5 billion revitalization project is expected to be completed in 2022. New additions include the 131-room Pendry hotel and a tranquil 1.5-acre green space called “The Green”. Stroll the brick walkway to take in the serene Potomac River while eating delicious confections from District Donuts or shop for clothing, jewelry, and home decor at stores like the Black-owned fashion boutique A Beautiful Closet .

At Kaliwa , order the drunken duck noodles and other Thai and Filipino dishes. Or head to chef Philippe Massoud’s new high-end Lebanese restaurant, Ilili , and try the tender braised lamb shank. Close out your night with panoramic views at the rooftop bar Whiskey Charlie . The Wharf Spiced Rum is a perfect coda to a perfect day in the district. —Kwin Mosby

13. Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

A labyrinthine world of mangroves, sandy islands, and clear skies awaits intrepid kayakers on florida’s gulf coast.

Everglades National Park —the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States—reveals only its outer edges to daytrippers. For a deeper view of a similar ecosystem, head to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge , just south of Marco Island. Here, one of the world’s largest mangrove systems covers 230 square miles, where fresh and salt waters meet.

“We’re not a beach destination, like St. Petersburg or Daytona,” says Charles Wright, a naturalist who owns Everglades Area Tours and takes guests on kayak adventures through mangrove islands in the Gulf of Mexico. “But there are sandy barrier islands with beautiful beaches . . . from Marco Island to the mouth of the Lostmans River.

“Most people think of swamps when they think of the Everglades—of airboats, alligators, and mosquitoes,” he adds. But the Everglades are much more than that, and the Ten Thousand Islands “are kind of the untapped jewel, with dolphins, manatees, orchids and bromeliads, wading birds, raptors, and more.”

On expeditions from Chokoloskee Island, you’ll camp on deserted islands and visit Native American sites; the Calusa tribe inhabited the area as early as the 15th century. One thing you won’t really see, however, is light pollution—just the canopy of the Milky Way in the inky skies above your camp at night. —Terry Ward

14. Northern Minnesota

Once known for its mining boomtowns, the iron range has gotten a mighty makeover.

Minnesota is lauded for its lakes—more than 10,000 of them—but any local knows that its land deserves some love, too. To get better acquainted, head to northern Minnesota’s Iron Range , which has quietly debuted 250 miles of new biking trails in the past decade. The routes came about largely thanks to local cycling enthusiasts, who have worked to turn the area into a magnet for biking in nature. Tioga Recreation Area added 19 miles of mountain bike trails near the town of Cohasset in August 2019, and a trail expansion is currently underway in Cuyuna County, which already has 50 miles of rust-colored dirt paths spread over 800 acres.

One of the most recent news makers? Redhead Mountain Bike Park , which opened in June 2020 after a nearly $2 million investment, now features 25 miles of trails outside the town of Chisholm. There, you can ride cinnamon-colored paths flanked by steep cliffs that descend into an abandoned mining pit with an aqua-blue lake at the bottom. (You’d be in good company, as more than 25,000 people have ridden the popular trails since the launch.)

If you’re looking for something a little smoother, northeastern Minnesota has you covered there, too. As of press time, the paved Mesabi Trail offers more than 135 miles of biking and walking through forests and small towns. When completed, it will stretch 155 miles from the Mississippi River to the remote Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness , one of the country’s most glorious natural sites. (And no, I’m not biased.) —Katherine LaGrave

15. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica

This lively caribbean coastal town offers excellent surfing and beaches, plus a secret dry season.

In September 2021, Costa Rica’s new Digital Nomads law began granting visas to foreign nationals for up to two years, inspiring remote workers to live out their long-term fantasies of surf, work, ceviche, repeat. Whether you’re eyeing a semipermanent move or just a weeklong break, one place to dip your toes in is Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a small coastal town on the country’s less frequented Caribbean side.

You won’t find the big brands or high-rises of Papagayo and Tamarindo here—just soft sand beaches and green macaws, and local boutiques such as Aloe Tienda for stylish handmade women’s clothing. The African influence is palpable in the Limonese Creole patois, calypso beats, and the coconut-sweetened version of rice and beans.

Another plus of Puerto Viejo: The town experiences a dry season in September and October, when most of the country is inundated with rain. Travelers who visit at this time usually luck out at such mega surf breaks as Salsa Brava. In nearby Cahuita National Park , a large coral reef hosts an array of marine life, ranging from diminutive damselfish to nurse sharks. Snorkelers can experience it in all its glory. After a few days in Puerto Viejo, you might discover it’s time to adopt the Pura Vida lifestyle and stay awhile. —Nina Kokotas Hahn

16. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

A road trip through abu dhabi reveals what lies beneath the surface of this sprawling emirate.

In its 50 years of existence, the United Arab Emirates has developed at lightning speed, creating cities out of the desert with record-breaking skyscrapers, lavish hotels, and a fast pace of life. As the pandemic forced me to slow down, I rediscovered the joy of exploring the hidden sides of my home. By the time my friend Rashid Khalfan invited me to Abu Dhabi, the emirate south of Dubai that covers 26,000 miles, I was ready to explore farther afield.

Rashid, knowing my love for brutalist architecture, showed me some of his favorite buildings, which he admires as symbols of a young nation’s progress. He pointed out the Buty Al Otaiba Tower , covered in rows of hexagonal windows, and the Hamed Centre , with its diamond motif. The most handsome edifice was the Al Ibrahimi building, a circular tower with protruding balconies that resemble woven fabric, designed by the late Egyptian modernist architect Farouk El Gohary . “The older ones have more Arabic touches; the later ones from the ’80s and ’90s have more glass on their facades,” Rashid said.

I could’ve stayed longer, but the Rub’ Al-Khali—the Empty Quarter, an expanse of desert 130 miles to the south—was calling. There the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara rises like a mirage, designed to enable your desert fantasies as you ride camels, smoke fragrant shisha, and let yourself be cocooned in rhassoul clay in the hammam.

For the full story from Nicola Chilton, read A Road Trip Through Abu Dhabi Reveals Its History .

17. Luxor, Egypt

Sometimes, the most enchanting experiences can be found outdoors

Find me a treasure in Luxor, Egypt, that can’t be savored in the open air—I challenge you. In three years of wintering in this city on the banks of the Nile, about 400 miles south of Cairo, I haven’t found one. Luxor is often called an open-air museum, a place where antiquities are as common as mosques, schools, or fruit stands. A visitor could stroll the grounds of Karnak Temple —not to mention Luxor Temple , Valley of the Queens , Valley of the Kings , or the Colossi of Memnon —for days and still find obelisks to marvel at, all while breathing in fresh Sahara Desert air.

Luxor is where I met my husband, and it’s where we now live part-time (when not in Alberta, Canada), in a mud-brick house on the city’s quieter, more rural-feeling West Bank. It’s located on the edge of Medinet Habu Temple , parts of which date to 1500 B.C.E. I joke that we’re basically “glamping in the desert”—never fully inside, because the dust, the donkey braying, and the call to prayer easily find their way in through the corners of our earthen abode. No need to set an alarm clock, since the whoosh of hot-air balloons overhead stirs us awake by sunrise.

For the full story from Colleen Kinder, read Get Outside in Luxor, Egypt, to Walk Among the Kings .

18. Jinja, Uganda

This nile-side city in eastern uganda abounds with outdoor adventures.

Set along the nile river in eastern Uganda, Jinja is home to misty views marked by rapids and waterfalls, as well as roads blanketed by red dust that spools onto the skin with a vengeance. My father’s work in the petroleum industry frequently took him to Jinja, 140 miles west of my hometown, Kisumu, Kenya. As a child, I often tagged along to explore the natural wonders of the area.

On a recent visit, I based myself at the Nile Porch , a hotel with semi-tented, high-ceilinged rooms. I discovered Adrift Uganda , which offers trips along the Nile River that include Class VI rapids, and booked a trip. I was relieved when my group voted to tackle a Class III rapid called Bubugo—until I learned that it means “condolences” in the Lusoga language of Uganda.

Later that afternoon, on a less harrowing quad-biking excursion with All Terrain Adventures through nearby Kyabirwa Village, I charged past farms bursting with maize; kids ran out from the open doorways of mud-brick homes to wave hello.

The next day, as I paddled on flat waters with Kayak the Nile , observing cormorants and kingfishers while otters lazily swam past me, I was reminded of that feeling of limitless adventure that continues to lure me back. —Wendy Watta

19. Karoo, South Africa

This valley northeast of cape town reveals a less explored side of south africa’s interio.

My love affair with the Klein Karoo—a semidesert valley 200 miles from Cape Town, on the southern edges of the Karoo region—blossomed late. In part, moving far away from Cape Town to New York City allowed me to appreciate this area with fresh eyes when I returned.

The Klein Karoo contains a 215-mile stretch of Route 62 that runs parallel to the more famous Garden Route. I traveled the entire road in January 2021, and my first stop was the country’s Sanbona Wildlife Reserve at the foot of the scrubby Warmwaterberg Mountains. The terrain, with its ancient rock formations and indigenous fynbos vegetation, is the only place to see the region’s nearly extinct white lions. At Dwyka Tented Lodge , set in an amphitheater of rock, there’s peace in the deafening silence.

An hour west lies Montagu, a handsome town framed by farms and the jagged Cape Fold Mountains. One of my favorite hotels is Jonkmanshof , a guesthouse set between two restored Cape Dutch buildings. When I return to the region next, I’ll check into Stil , a monochromatic retreat with a sculpture garden that opened in 2021. I’ll also take a morning hike along the Keisie River, where weaverbirds and shrikes soar above. And I’ll follow it with a latte in the tree-shaded garden of the Barn on 62 , a coffee shop at the foot of those magical mountains. —Mary Holland

20. Turkana, Kenya

Explore the northwestern corner of kenya, where archaeological sites and the blue waters of lake turkana await.

Having lived in Kenya all my life, I never knew how rich and varied the landscapes and cultures of my own homeland could be—until I traveled to Turkana County.

This arid part of the country, often called the cradle of humankind, lies 310 miles northwest of Nairobi. Turkana is one of Kenya’s largest counties, but even with its groundbreaking archaeological finds and distinct traditions, few people visit.

During a recent trip, my first stop is Turkana’s dusty capital, Lodwar, where I head to the Mikeka market, famous for its intricate handwoven baskets made with multicolored reeds. The women who create them use the earnings to supplement their agricultural livelihoods, which are constantly threatened by drought. From Lodwar, I travel east for 45 miles until I reach the azure waters of Lake Turkana. I stop at the fishing town of Kalokol to observe anglers dry tilapia and perch and to view Namoratunga II, a 2,300-year-old ceremonial site composed of 19 stone pillars.

Next I drive 50 miles north along the lake to Nariokotome to see the discovery site of Turkana Boy , the most complete known skeleton of Homo erectus, dating back 1.6 million years. A brass replica of the hominid skeleton stands near the site where it was uncovered; the original resides in the National Museum of Kenya . But the site itself, where I can picture Turkana Boy in the very place he once inhabited, offers a powerful reminder of our ancient roots. —Harriet Akinyi

21. Ibadan, Nigeria

A three-hour train ride from lagos, this centuries-old city is rich in history, culture, and hearty cuisine..

Ibadan is the city of my youth, my mother’s youth, and that of her mother before her.

Once an epicenter of Nigerian politics, Ibadan was founded by Yoruba warriors in the 19th century. Today, it’s characterized by its seven hills, colonial buildings, and rusty corrugated roofing. Thanks to the newly modernized Nigerian Railway , my mother and I recently returned to Ibadan from Lagos on a journey that took us past thick rain forests, farmlands, and rural communities.

From the train station, our taxi dropped us at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), founded by Americans in 1967 to improve food security in sub-Saharan Africa. Spread over 2,400 acres, the IITA headquarters includes farms, offices, and a tree-shaded, utilitarian hotel.

From there, we set off to explore the manicured grounds of the University of Ibadan —Nigeria’s first university—and wandered among the eucalyptus and teak trees at Agodi Botanical Gardens. We haggled for yams and fresh ata rodo—habanero peppers—in the Bodija market. At Amala Skye, a buka (canteen) that serves Yoruba comfort food, we fortified ourselves on green-hued ewedu, a soup made with jute leaves.

As we tasted these familiar flavors and recounted our school days, it occurred to me how much there is to explore in my home country. That thought alone brought me indescribable joy. — Mimi Aborowa

22. Negev Desert, Israel

The rocky, dune-filled landscape in the southern half of israel has just welcomed its newest retreat.

I was 13 years old when I visited Israel’s Negev Desert for the first time, and the moment I saw its primeval craters and sand-colored mountains, I was transfixed. During my residential high school program in Israel, the expansive desert offered an otherworldly, biblical antidote to my suburban London childhood.

Since moving to Tel Aviv in 2017, I try to return to the Negev whenever I need to reconnect with my carefree younger self. And this passage through time just got more comfortable, thanks to the sublime Six Senses Shaharut , a resort that opened in August 2021.

I traveled to the desert in the fall, and on arrival to the Six Senses, immediately noticed the site-specific architecture. Built from locally sourced limestone, the buildings blend into their surroundings. My suite was designed using natural stone, copper, and a teak door from an old boat. Following a perfect night of sleep, I awoke to views of the unspoiled Arava Valley through floor-to-ceiling windows. I took an aerial yoga class and then a dip in the infinity pool. Looking out at the desert that has awed me for nearly 30 years, I felt deeply inspired to walk its paths anew. —Natalie Blenford

23. Imlil, Morocco

This small village in the atlas mountains exudes a warm, laid-back hospitality.

Moving a household is always stressful. But when I relocated three years ago to Imlil, a tiny Berber village in the heart of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, my biggest worry was trying to figure out if a mule could carry a washing machine up a mountain.

I had found a house in a family compound carved into the rock of one of the high peaks that surround the main street in Imlil. A valley full of walnut and cherry trees stretches out beneath my terrace, and in the spring the landscape is drowned in pink-and-white blossoms. The day I moved in, children screeched around the communal yard, and the cow—who lives under my bedroom—vied with the chickens to make the most noise. I stepped onto the terrace as the first notes of the Muslim call to prayer rang out, bouncing off the peaks painted golden by the sun. I saw the tiny figures of hikers high on the trails.

At 5 p.m., Miriam, my new neighbor, took my hand in her warm one and led me into her house. “It’s teatime,” she said. Women and children sat on the handwoven carpets, chattering like birds.

Miriam poured the sweet mint tea. “Eat, eat!” she said as she presented a feast of hot flaky flatbreads, honey from wild bees, home-churned butter, and walnuts from the trees outside.

And it is that hospitality that makes a visit to these soaring, juniper-clad mountains so incredibly special. Here, you are not a stranger; you are a friend. —Alice Morrison

24. Copenhagen, Denmark

The green city is expanding rapidly—go now to explore its gritty, evolving liminal spaces.

Not too long ago, I took a walk through the wastelands of Copenhagen. It sounds strange to call them that, because the Danish capital, with all its modern design and hygge, is hardly known for grittiness. But this dusty expanse of mostly empty warehouses and overgrown weeds, languishing to the southwest of the lively Meatpacking District, seemed to qualify. After 20 minutes of wandering, I entered a gate and found myself in an Alice in Wonderland alternate reality. A leafy glade contained dark, rustic wooden barns. Fat heads of garlic and fire-engine-red tomatoes spilled from the door of one, the jangle of a band from another. At an outdoor table set beneath fairy lights, a young mother fed her child pieces of a sandwich.

BaneGaarden , as I learned this enchanted place is called, once housed supplies for railway construction. It was abandoned in the 1950s but has recently been transformed into a cultural center. A farm shop, a bakery, a couple of restaurants, and spaces for pop-ups and other events fill the carefully renovated barns, all of this encircled by deciduous trees. Both geographically and metaphorically, the complex seemed far from Copenhagen’s center. But I realized it wouldn’t be long before BaneGaarden was just another delightful corner of my growing city.

For the full story from Lisa Abend, read As Copenhagen Expands Rapidly, Its Future Is in Its Outskirts .

25. Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Ponder the history of western civilization as you hike along turkey’s ruin-strewn carian trail.

The Carian Trail unfolds like an outdoor museum: Ancient artifacts, pristine coves, and stone villages are linked by mule paths and old caravan routes dotted with campsites and inns. I decided to take on one new section every month, focusing on stretches I could hike in a day.

On my first outing, I walked from my home until the stone path turned to dirt and the houses gave way to coastal shrubs. I reached the first bend and looked back, considering turning around. What if I lost my way?

Instead, I followed the red-and-white way markers tattooed on boulders. I passed beekeepers tending apiaries and wild mountain goats hoofing over loose rocks. I stayed mindful of the thistles and boar tracks, marching down switchbacks lined with wild thyme and sage.

With each hike, I found myself increasingly drawn to the ruins along the route. The trail is named after the Carians, a civilization indigenous to this coastline as far back as 6000 B.C.E. I passed tombs, mausoleums, crumbling walls, and altars. I passed relics of the Persians, Byzantines, Romans, and Ottomans, all of whom left their marks.

For the full story from Jenna Scatena, read Hike Turkey’s Carian Trail, Ponder the History of Western Civilization .

26. Fontainebleau, France

Trade paris for a tranquil weekend in this forested town—once home to royalty—and its neighbor, one of the country’s most notable artists’ communities.

Like many Parisians, my husband and I soldiered through multiple COVID-19 lockdowns in the city with little access to green space. By the end of 2020, we realized we wanted to make a long-term shift to get closer to nature. So we decided to divide our time between Paris and the country, and bought a century-old stone house near a place eminently familiar to us: Fontainebleau, a town 45 miles south of Paris. For more than 15 years, we have hiked, climbed, and explored in the once-royal place, known for its vast forest and intricate sandstone architecture.

The town was built around the 12th-century Château de Fontainebleau , which was updated in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site currently undergoing another restoration. Ancient forest—54,000 acres of it—surrounds the town, encompassing boulders, hiking trails, and Barbizon , an artists’ village. In the 19th century, iconic painters such as Jules Dupré and Théodore Rousseau, inspired by the sandstone boulders and stands of deciduous trees, created the community, where they pioneered landscape realism and the pre-impressionism movement.

The artistic style remains a fixture in Barbizon, where visitors can explore a dozen museums, galleries, and studios in addition to La Folie Barbizon , an artists’ residence, inn, and restaurant specializing in organic vegetarian fare that opened in the spring of 2020. Despite the changes, the magic that captured the artists remains: Each time I step off the train from Paris, I feel lighter and more connected to the present. —Lindsey Tramuta

27. Bristol, England

In southwestern england, this progressive maritime city has grown into a proper food and beer destination.

Every time I return to Bristol, the West Country city where I spent my teenage years, it’s changed, often substantially. The trading port may wear its heritage on its sleeve—the waterfront’s imposing cranes and the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge are just two examples of Bristol’s maritime and engineering history—but it’s also a modern hub of creativity, ingenuity, and liberal thinking. Since my dad’s work took us there in the early 1990s, the city has witnessed the rise of trip hop, the street art of Banksy, a revitalized harborside and city center, and the advent of its own currency (which transitioned into digital currency in 2021). It was also named a European Green Capital in 2015. More recently, a racial reckoning saw many of the city’s establishments question and ultimately condemn Bristol’s slavetrading past.

My latest trip, in summer 2021, yielded plenty of fresh fun. Since I last visited, Bristol has turned into a bona fide food and craft beer capital, with breweries located in unusual places. The reborn (once again) harborside is now full of restaurants. I liked the hazy IPAs at Left Handed Giant , whose brewpub occupies a former sugar refinery on the riverbank. Near the central train station, visitors can try hop-forward beers in a taproom shared by brewers Newtown Park and Verdant . And at Cargo , a waterfront collection of restaurants and stores housed in shipping containers, travelers can taste everything from bao and poke to local cheese and cider. The complex is diverse, surprising, and full of flavor—just like Bristol itself. —Tim Chester

28. San Miniato, Italy

On your next trip to the bel paese, bypass the tourist-clogged tuscan cities and head for this truffle-loving hill town.

My husband was born in San Miniato, a picturesque hilltop village often overshadowed by its neighboring Tuscan cities: Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Lucca. For years we lived in Florence, but early in the pandemic, we moved back to my husband’s hometown to escape the crowds and be closer to family. I had also discovered that the town was experiencing a culinary renaissance—and for me, as a food writer and cookbook author , that sealed the deal.

San Miniato, with its fertile, tree-covered hills, has long been known for its prized white truffles, grated with abandon over plates of buttery tagliolini and celebrated every November at the local truffle fair, La Sagra del Tartufo Bianco . (The festival marked its 50th year in 2021.) In the months we’ve been here, I’ve appreciated living a five-minute walk from modern Tuscan classics: a fourth-generation butcher, Sergio Falaschi , which has the best view in town and a new casual restaurant out back; Maggese , a fine-dining spot with an emphasis on veggies; Birra e Acciughe , a tiny beer and panino joint named for its long, warm baguettes filled with butter and anchovies; and Pizza del Popolo , a new bakery that sells sourdough and vegetarian pizza a taglio, or by the slice.

The village’s delights extend beyond restaurants. Travelers can taste wines at the nearby biodynamic winery Cosimo Maria Masini , join a truffle hunt year-round, or stretch their legs on one of the walking paths of Via Francigena , the 10th-century Roman pilgrim route that cuts right through town. Whenever I walk it, I’m reminded of how lucky we are to have such abundant countryside—and food—right outside our front door. —Emiko Davies

29. Gorski Kotar & Lika, Croatia

Though travelers best know the country for its picturesque beaches, croatia’s wild interiors are also worth a special trip.

While tourists swoon over the islands and coast of Croatia, its mountainous regions, located southwest of the capital city, Zagreb, remain blissfully off the radar. In Lika and Gorski Kotar, travelers can hike beside Plitvice Lakes and visit no fewer than four of the country’s eight national parks, and spot ancient yew trees and native flowers such as Carniolan lilies.

Drawn by the remote wilderness and my own roots—my mother hails from a now-abandoned hamlet in Lika—I’ve been spending time in the area during the last several years. There, I found Jelena Pirc of Lynx & Fox , who guides day hikes into Gorski Kotar’s rugged sylvan landscapes frequented by bears, wolves, and the endangered Eurasian lynx. Pirc recommends visiting Stara Sušica’s new Large Carnivores Visitor Center , which opened in July.

Farther south in the mighty Velebit Mountains, where old-growth beech forests hide rare western capercaillie birds, the conservation nonprofit Rewilding Europe is reintroducing wild horses and bovines to the Lika Plains and building wildlife-watching hide structures to support nature-focused tourism. Accommodations range from cozy chalets and rustic lodges to the higher-end Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch , located inside the UNESCO Velebit Mountain Biosphere Reserve —even more reasons to detour inland from the Croatian coast. —Anja Mutić

30. Bundoran, Ireland

A popular seaside resort for centuries, bundoran has forged a new identity for itself: surf capital of ireland.

I never thought my quest to learn to surf would lead me to Bundoran, a coastal town in County Donegal in the northwest corner of Ireland. When I first visited in 2015, I thought I’d only be there for the three months my visa allowed. Now, I come every year, often bouncing around Europe or returning stateside while waiting for my visa to reset.

Bundoran was a popular destination long before it became the surf capital of Ireland. During Victorian times, people flocked from across the country to soak in the Thrupenny and West End (Nun’s) Pools. Today, surfers from around the world come to visit Tullan Strand or ride the breakers at the Peak, home to some of Europe’s most consistent waves.

I return to Bundoran each year, vowing that I’ll finally learn to surf. The funny part is, I never follow through. I visit instead for the craic, or good times, in local parlance. There’s still plenty to do in town without getting in the water: It’s not called Fundoran for nothing! Consider taking a hike up Benbulbin, cycling around the Gleniff Horseshoe loop , cliff jumping from the coastal crags, or simply strolling along the Rougey Cliff Walk. If you’re feeling parched afterwards, check out some of my favorite pubs and eateries, including the Phoenix Tavern , the Chasin’ Bull , and Maddens Bridge Bar & Restaurant , where you can enjoy pints while listening to traditional music. —Yolanda Evans

31. Saxony, Germany

Cycle through organic vineyards and past 18th-century castles on a wine tour in eastern germany’s most sustainable wine region.

For more than 850 years, grapes in Saxony—Germany’s easternmost wine region—have been tended and harvested by hand, the wines made painstakingly in small quantities. One of my favorite ways to taste the sustainably grown wines, which are consumed primarily within the region, is also ecofriendly: via a bike ride on the 34-mile-long Saxon Wine Route.

The route starts in the riverside town of Pirna and coils its way through terraced vineyards and historic towns such as Meißen and Radebeul along the Elbe River. In Radebeul, I like to stop at Hoflößnitz , a winery-turned-museum that makes organic wines. At the nearby 18th-century Wackerbarth Castle , visitors can stroll through gardens and goldriesling vines, a variety of grape mainly grown on the Elbe. Travelers can taste sparkling wines at Wackerbarth, the region’s oldest sparkling wine cellar, or try Saxon reds and whites at Schloss Proschwitz Vinothek in Meißen, a town also renowned for its porcelain.

While the path ends in Diesbar-Seußlitz, about nine miles from Meißen, I sometimes take a detour on my way back to Pirna via the Elbe Cycle Route . The Elbe path leads to the village of Schmilka in the Saxon Switzerland Mountains, 16 miles from Pirna. There a 17th-century mill refurbished as a bakery fills the cobblestone streets with scents of spelt sourdough and handbrot, a palm-size bread stuffed with cheese, bacon, or vegetables. Hungry cyclists will also find pâtisseries and an organic brewery in Schmilka, all of which use seasonal ingredients and minimize food waste.

My only (hard-won) advice? Don’t try to complete the entire route in one day. —Christina Ng

32. Sri Lanka

The island nation quietly comes into its own as a nature lover’s low-key paradise.

After international arrivals to Sri Lanka dwindled, the country’s tourism industry pivoted, courting residents with new outdoor offerings: Across the country, we trekked through primary rain forests, snorkeled with sea turtles, and strolled sprawling shores. Good news for international travelers—Sri Lanka’s borders are now fully open.

Born in the fishing hamlet of Weligama, Thilina Dananjaya is not new to tourism; his father opened the first guesthouse here in the 1980s. But Dananjaya, owner of Layback , a boutique hotel focused on surfing and yoga, says his perspective has changed. “Being confined to our homes made us more conscious about the luxury of spending time outdoors,” he says. As a result, Dananjaya and his team added a yoga deck, a store for women-made handicrafts, a new restaurant, and two spacious rooftop terraces.

Farther north, in the central inlands of Sri Lanka, local-run Bush Loft has set up wildlife campsites in some of the country’s most remote corners: fly camping in the grasslands of Buttala, or daily excursions to Yala National Park .

You can also go it alone and arrange your own safari. Recently, in Kaudulla National Park , I spotted a herd of Asian elephants protecting the youngest member of their group, trunks and limbs moving in tandem. Soon after, I watched yellow weaverbirds flitting in and out of their intricate woven nests, which hung from branches all around me. This, I thought—is what Sri Lanka is all about.

For the full story from Zinara Rathnayake, read Sri Lanka Has Come Into its Own as a Nature Lover’s Paradise .

33. Singapore

In a metropolis known for its squeaky-clean streets, a tale of two cities emerges.

Some Singaporeans raise an eyebrow when they learn I live with my family in Geylang. For decades, this township has been notorious as a red-light district, an incongruous aspect of Singapore’s wholesome image. But amid narrow lanes hemmed by shophouses and temples, restaurant chefs are cooking some of the tastiest regional food in Singapore. Many evenings, my wife and I land at Ăn Là Ghiền , a hot pot joint that feels straight out of Hanoi, or Dong Bei Dumpling King , where we always order the crispy pork-and-celery-filled dumplings. For a Thai fix, our go-to is Gu Thai House , curries and noodles all cooked to suitably spicy standards. Anthony Bourdain loved JB Ah Meng for white pepper crab and Sin Huat Eating House for crab bee hoon, a whole crab served with rice noodles.

Even I need a break from Geylang sometimes, though. Luckily, Kranji, with its open fields and farms, is just 30 minutes north by car. At the Kranji Marshes and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve , two nature parks form a 460-acre haven for migratory shorebirds and raptors. If I’m lucky, I might spot a crocodile at the water’s edge, or a family of macaques scampering through the branches. Here I am, in a jungle away from an urban jungle, both of which call Singapore home.

For the full story from Lester V. Ledesma, read Singapore’s Geylang Neighborhood Is Developing a New Reputation as a Foodie Hot Spot .

34. Goa, India

An indian state celebrates the old with the new.

You could say I grew up with Goa. In my youth, I visited to party with friends, lured by the Indian beach state’s notorious raves. But when I hit my thirties, I began to better appreciate Goa’s rich heritage, its Portuguese influence, and the growing number of restaurants, bars, and stores that celebrate the region’s culture and architecture.

Nowhere is all of this more apparent than in the picturesque historic quarter of the capital city, Panaji, where brightly painted homes share streets with local boutiques like Sacha’s Shop , with its superbly curated resort wear from homegrown Indian designers. Another favorite is the rainbow-shuttered restaurant António at 31 , which opened in January 2021: A throwback to Panaji’s old taverns, the menu from chef Pablo Miranda features seasonal fruit cocktails and tapas such as tender coconut stir-fry and crispy baitfish with kalchi kodi (leftover curry) dip.

In the north of Goa, the newest darling is Felix , a gallery, coworking space, and events spot that serves modern plates with a regional twist, including eggs Benedict with Goan chorizo. For a truly immersive experience, book “A Very Goan Picnic” with tour company the Local Beat . Travelers can splash around a secret waterfall straight out of The Jungle Book and then feast on a home-cooked lunch accompanied by feni (cashew or coconut liquor).

Another highlight is on the way. In the township of Bardez, the Moda Goa Museum & Research Centre , founded by the late Goan fashion designer Wendell Rodricks, will welcome visitors in early 2022 with more than 800 fashion, textile, and art objects. —Jasreen Mayal Khanna

35. Cairns, Australia

Australia’s premier great barrier reef gateway reopens, offering travelers a new way to engage with indigenous cultures.

Visitors to Cairns, a coastal city in tropical north Queensland, typically arrive on a mission: See the Great Barrier Reef. Prepandemic, nearly 3 million people would pass through annually, boarding massive catamarans laden with scuba tanks and snorkel masks, an army of tourists in pursuit of wonder.

As Australia’s borders reopen, Cairns is ready to welcome travelers again, with refreshed esplanade dining, new hotels championing sustainability, and an exciting experience celebrating the Indigenous heritage of the Great Barrier Reef.

Some 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups have a continuing connection to the world’s largest coral reef system, and in 2018, Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel launched trips led by Indigenous Sea Rangers who share cultural knowledge passed down from their ancestors. During the tours, guests listen to evocative creation stories about how the reef came to be, and learn about hunting practices, such as seasonal harvesting, that have safeguarded the reef’s biodiversity for millennia.

Visitors will be able to engage with Sea Rangers more deeply at a new pontoon base for Dreamtime’s day trips to Moore Reef. Opening in early 2022, the floating pontoon will house an on-site laboratory and underwater observatory. Activities will fuse traditional knowledge and modern science to inspire collaborative protection of the Great Barrier Reef. —Sarah Reid

36. Tokorozawa Sakura Town, Japan

A stone’s throw from tokyo, architecture and anime buffs will find a place built just for them.

In the Saitama prefecture, roughly an hour from Tokyo Station, a new “town” was born in November 2020. Dubbed Tokorozawa Sakura Town , it’s a joint venture between the city of Tokorozawa and the Japanese publishing giant Kadokawa, known for its manga and anime titles. Its main focus? Bringing Japanese pop culture to life.

Here, visitors will find two structures by influential Japanese architect Kengo Kuma : the futuristic Kadokawa Culture Museum , with a colossal exterior built using 20,000 pieces of granite, and the minimalist Musashino Reiwa shrine. A highlight inside the labyrinthine five-story museum is the Bookshelf Theater, which has 26-foot shelves and is filled with more than 50,000 books, the majority of which are related to manga and anime. (Yes, you can flip through them.) The sleek Shinto shrine, meanwhile, is guarded by two komainu—guardian lion-dogs—crafted by sculptor Yoshimasa Tsuchiya . The shrine also features an asymmetrical roof and a phoenix painted on the ceiling by Yoshitaka Amano , the renowned designer of Final Fantasy video game characters.

Since Tokorozawa Sakura Town’s inception, architecture and pop culture fans have been drawn to the cultural complex, which also has a brand-new bookstore, restaurants, and a permanent TeamLab installation of giant silver acornlike objects that glow at night amid the trees. There’s also an anime-themed 33-room hotel that hosts character parties—so go ahead, make a long weekend of it. —Yukari Sakamoto

37. Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

New zealand’s south island is rural, uncrowded, and achingly beautiful.

I grew up in the subtropics of New Zealand’s North Island, and the much more temperate, sparsely populated South Island has beckoned me throughout adulthood. Three of the South’s nine national parks are within a 90-minute drive of my current home in Nelson; and there are enough gold-sand beaches, mountains, and alpine lakes to spend a lifetime exploring. Challenge accepted.

Road-tripping is the only way to really experience the South Island’s natural beauty. Start in Nelson, a city of more than 50,000 at the top of the South Island, and drive west about an hour to the eastern entrance of Abel Tasman National Park . Many travelers opt to hike—or “tramp”— the Coast Track , a five-day, 37-mile “Great Walk,” camping in tents along the way. If you have mobility issues (or perhaps toddlers in tow), you can still get the best of the national park via boat tours from Kaiteriteri, stopping at beaches on turquoise bays.

Continue the drive over notorious Tākaka Hill—with its narrow, windy, gut-churning lanes—to Golden Bay, pausing at a lookout for panoramic Tasman Bay views. Stay overnight in a town along the way, such as Tākaka or Collingwood, and end your visit marveling at the 65-foot-high Wainui Falls and Te Waikoropupū Springs. The cold, clear springs are a sacred Māori space—a source of life, healing, and renewal for locals and travelers alike. —Elen Turner

38. Phong Nha, Vietnam

It’s easier than ever to dive deep into the gigantic caves of this unesco world heritage site.

Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park , a geologically notable site in central Vietnam, has tempted daredevils since 2013, when Son Doong , the biggest cave on the planet (large enough to hold a Boeing 747), opened for multiday tours. The Phong Nha–based company Oxalis Adventure is hoping to launch a fresh adventure in 2022 that’s set to rival the Son Doong Expedition, its flagship experience.

On the new Hang Ba tour (still in development), Oxalis guides will lead spelunkers through upwards of five caves with gigantic limestone chambers and dangling stalactites. When cavers aren’t crawling, swimming, or paddleboarding, they’ll be camping and trekking through jungles.

“I’ve been wanting to design this tour for ages,” says Howard Limbert, who led the expedition team that discovered the caves in the early 1990s. Back then, it took 15 hours to reach the cave cluster from Phong Nha village. Thanks to a new road, it may only take five to six hours.

Limbert says that collective efforts to protect the caves (his team has mapped more than 500 in Vietnam) and hire people from the community have reduced the rate of illegal logging and instilled conservationist attitudes. Phong Nha-Ke Bang can serve as a model for other protected areas in Vietnam, Limbert says, including the newly recognized biosphere reserves Nui Chua and Kon Ha Nung. —Joshua Zukas

Together, a new band of chefs and cultural activists is showcasing real Taiwanese food

Taiwanese fare has long been considered a subset of the food of China. But diplomatic contact between China and the contested island nation ceased in 2016, and tensions have continued to climb. One of the by-products: Across Taiwan, many chefs are reviving a distinct national cuisine.

“A lot of people think Taiwanese food is beef noodle soup and xiao long bao [soup dumplings],” says Huang Teng-Wei, co-owner of Siang Kháu Lū , a boutique cooking school that opened in 2019 in Taoyuan, southwest of Taipei. “But in fact, all these dishes came after 1950 with the Chinese immigrants.” Traditional Taiwanese cuisine tends to revolve around root vegetables (like sweet potato and taro) and rice, with dishes such as savory rice puddings flavored with pork. He and his wife, Chou Pei-Yi, are particularly focused on reviving kueh, an old-school rice pastry that was used for centuries as a temple offering to the gods.

Other chefs are celebrating native Taiwanese ingredients. At Akame , a glitzy eatery that has been open since 2015 in Pingtung county, on Taiwan’s southernmost tip, the Indigenous chef Alex Peng uses pine needles and local sumac to flavor meat. Meanwhile, André Chiang—who helms Taipei’s fine-dining tour de force Raw —is committed to using Taiwanese ingredients from regional producers and highlighting Taiwan’s micro-seasons. Menu items might include roasted sliced duck graced with a sheet of seaweed, or a trio of local rice (fermented, purple, and toasted) alongside creamy panna cotta. Chiang’s side gig? Creating an encyclopedia of Taiwanese cooking techniques, ingredients, and food history so that the national cuisine becomes more recognized. —Clarissa Wei

As a new year begins, we're excited to shine a light on our Best in Travel 2022 list.

The top 10 cities, countries and regions around the world were carefully selected by our editors to inspire a new year of travel.

Now we're unveiling a whole new series of stories, video interviews, and tips for turning our Best in Travel list into your travel reality, whether that happens in 2022 or further down the line.

These destinations span the globe and allow you, the traveler, to immerse yourself in local culture.

Our how-to guides will show you how to make the most of your trip with tips on how you can have a positive impact on your destination.

Find out how you can sustainably trek to Everest Base Camp, enjoy a stargazer's guide to Chile's Atacama desert, and follow an insider's guide to Nigeria's city that never sleeps: Lagos.

As the pandemic continues to impact an ever-shifting patchwork of places around the world, we're working hard to balance travel and safety, and a sense of caution alongside our sense of wanderlust.

As such, our 2022 list is as much a bucket list for the future as it is a to-visit list for right now.

See the full list here.

More From Forbes

The 22 best places to travel around the world in 2022: where to go next.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Where to travel in 2022? What are the best places to travel during Covid? Where should I travel next? These are the questions that everyone is asking now that international travel is coming back to life, thanks to the loosening of travel restrictions in many destinations around the world and a pent-up demand for all those far-flung vacations that were put on hold during the pandemic. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council , travel numbers will reach pre-pandemic levels in 2022, the CEO of Expedia predicts that this summer will be the busiest travel season ever and the airlines are encountering unparalleled demand.

Note: This story is from 2022. To read about the best places to travel right now, see “The 23 Best Places To Travel Around The World In 2023, Chosen By The Experts”

Every year, I round up the best places to visit. This year, in honor of Women’s History Month in March, I tapped into a handful of women travel experts and influencers to find out the destinations that they have on their radar around the globe for 2022. The choices for where to go in 2022 range from cutting-edge urban capitals to dreamy Caribbean islands to African destinations worthy of a bucket-list vacation.

Tanzania—one of the best places to travel in 2022.

One thing to remember, though: The world is still in a state of flux. So if you’re planning a trip anywhere these days, you should check travel restrictions for the destination you are hoping to visit and consider warnings from the State Department and the CDC . And even if you decide not to plan a trip right now, consider this your ultimate travel bucket list for 2022—and beyond.

Want to stay closer to home? For more ideas of where to travel in America, check out “The 22 Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2022.”

Best Travel Insurance Companies

Best covid-19 travel insurance plans, best places to travel in 2022: mexico.

Overlooking Mexico City.

Where to Go: Mexico City

Chosen By: Nneya Richards is a speaker and travel blogger at ’N A Perfect World , a curated intersection of travel, food, fashion and geopolitics inspired by the global-citizen lifestyle of the millennial. Nneya aims to empower young people, especially those of color, to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.

Why: A long time destination for notable creatives like Joan Didion and Jack Kerouac, Mexico City is experiencing a resurgence on the travel scene in 2022 with in-the-know travelers flocking there for its vibrant food, art and nightlife. “Mexico City is the kind of place you visit once and immediately start planning how you’re going to relocate,” says Richards. “While Americans have continued going to Mexico during the pandemic, travel has been more escapism. People looked to get away from city life when they traveled. Nightlife, restaurants, theatre, the pulses of cities were shuttered. As the world re-emerges, Mexico City has this in spades.”

One of the best places to visit in the city, Bosque Chapultepec is undergoing a major renovation this year. “President Obrador is hoping to make it the biggest and largest cultural center in the world, adding an aquatic center, skate parks and updating the soccer fields,” says Richards.

When it comes to travel in Mexico City, Richards recommends taking a Xochimilco floating gardens tour . “You might think the colorful music and booze-filled rides through the canals of the Xochimilco floating gardens only attract tourists—but you’d be wrong,” she says. “When I posted on my insta-stories, friends from Mexico City replied, “Yes! That’s the way to do Mexico City!”

Also on her radar: a hot air balloon over the Teotihuacan pyramids and a Temazcal ritual performed by a shamana in your hotel. “Life in Mexico City seems to really be lived, composed of a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that become a way of living,” says Richards. “As a New Yorker, I get it. Bucket-list living.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: The Caribbean

A rooftop pool at the O2 Beach Club & Spa in Barbados.

Where to Go: Barbados

Chosen By: Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, founder of Jet Set Sarah , where travel, fitness and style meet.

Why: “I love Barbados (I’m half Bajan),” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “I am looking forward to returning in 2022 to enjoy some familiar favorites (a fish cutter from Cuz's food truck on Pebbles Beach is definitely a priority) and new-to-me places such as the O2 Beach Club & Spa .”

The South Coast of Barbados is traditionally known for barefoot hotels, but now this gorgeous region is seeing a spike in luxe hotels and restaurants, including the Sea Breeze Beach House, Sandals Barbados and O2 Beach Club, where you'll find three pools (including one of the only rooftop pools on the island), six dining experiences, seven bars, a teen lounge and a spa with panoramic ocean views. The resort tapped Caribbean designer Michelle Leotaud to give 02 a true sense of place.

The South Coast’s culinary scene is buzzing, too. The open-air Worthing Square Food Garden is a new street food hall with live music and 20 pop-ups serving global flavors from sushi to jerk. Foodies can also head to new Buzo for pizza, Cocktail Kitchen for light bites or Champers for waterside dining. New cocktail bars include Tabú, Mimosa , Chill Bar & Café and Tiki Bar, which has amazing sunset views. Also not to be missed: the beachfront Barbados Boardwalk , with pools and stunning views of the open sea.

Grenada's Grand Anse Beach.

Where to Go: Grenada

Chosen By: Diane Bair (@dianebairtravel), travel writer and author of more than two dozen books on travel, outdoor adventure, and wildlife.

Why: “My goal is to eventually visit every island in the Caribbean, but darn you, Grenada! You keep enticing me back,” says Bair. “Snapshot moments—like paddling a clear kayak in an aqua lagoon while nibbling a local chocolate bar—sum up what is amazing about this three-island nation.”

Bair says she encounters something new and terrific on every visit. “Besides the burgeoning bean-to-bar chocolate business (five chocolate factories), Grenada’s food scene is a vibrant mashup of fresh seafood and aromatic, locally grown nutmeg and other spices,” says Bair. Dining hotspots include The Aquarium , La Luna and Rhodes Restaurant . “Any foodie worth the label should discover Grenadian specialties, like oildown (a breadfruit stew with meat and coconut milk) and lambie (conch),” she says. “Sample those, and more, at the Dodgy Dock at True Blue Bay Resort , which feels like a lively island version of a church supper.”

Grenada will celebrate Spicemas 2022 (Carnival) this August, a sure sign that festivities are revving up again. And ferry service is once again available to Grenada’s sister islands Carriacou and Petit Martinique. Besides stellar beaches (Carriacou’s Paradise Beach was recently named best in the Caribbean), Grenada claims bragging rights to the first underwater sculpture park in the world. “Recently renovated, the park features 82 life-size sculptures, modeled after local people. Snorkeling or diving alongside them is always a joy,” says Bair. “Waterfalls and rainforest also make this destination a slam-dunk for me.”

If you’re inclined to add to your time in paradise with some feel good deeds, Grenada’s newly launched Voluntourism initiative is something to check out. And more good news: “Grenada’s Simple Stays program highlights 16 affordable accommodations, making it easy for more travelers to experience this incredible island,” says Bair.

Nneya Richards in Martinique—one of the top travel destinations for 2022.

Where to Go: Martinique

Why: “Do you guys look at Rihanna’s Crop Over looks every year and promise that one year you’ll do a Carnival? If you’re not quite bold enough for a full-on Crop Over and want to ease into Carnival life, head down to Martinique,” says Richards.

“This beautiful island’s annual Carnival is the perfect place for you and your tribe to do your first Carnival, as it’s the only one that’s really participatory: there are no barriers separating the spectators and marchers,” she says. “Everyone is encouraged to participate and everyone does.”

Martinique was recently named the top emerging destination in the world by Tripadvisor—and it’s no wonder. Beyond Carnival, travelers will love exploring Martinique’s verdant mountains and spectacular white and black sand beaches. Some big news for the island: UNESCO recently named the entire island a World Biosphere Reserve (the second UNESCO distinction for the island). Another tip from Richards: “This year JetBlue has well priced flights there.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Canada

A panorama along Bow River Parkway in Alberta's Banff National Park.

Where to Go: Alberta, Canada

Chosen By: California Chaney, global travel writer, DJ, photographer and editor at Fathom . Follow along on her travels at @californiastarchaney or californiachaney.com

Why: Alberta holds wonder around every bend and corner, from the spectacular Canadian Rockies to the Badlands to the culturally rich cities. Perfect for travelers with passions for learning and the expansive outdoors, Alberta offers a wide variety of festivals and museums, rich and interactive history, exquisite provincial parks, delicious cuisine with small batch spirits and an impressive number of daylight hours to maximize time. In early July, the sun rises before 5:30 and sets close to 10 p.m.

Explore the newly expanded Metis Crossing , an interpretive destination offering immersive and authentic Indigenous Métis experiences. For city culture, the Edmonton Queer History Project has launched its new interactive website and walking tours that map 27 historically significant landmarks. For those who like to travel slow, Vacations By Rail has routes through the Rockies and the cities. “It’s the most spectacular way to truly experience the Rocky Mountains and unplug while taking the scenic route, winding through the mountains and valleys with luxury sleeper cars, dinner on board and cozy nooks to get lost in the passing scenery,” says Chaney.

For adrenaline, cycle the windy and scenic Bow Valley Parkway between Banff and Lake Louise. Chaney also recommends taking a river tour with Urban River Adventures , which “leads trips to the secluded islands in the North Saskatchewan River with overnights in geodesic glamping tents.” Dine in a 360° Dome , surrounded by panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies and a 132-year-old castle or join a “ peak nic ”—part interpretive-guided hike, part backcountry cooking lesson and part gourmet picnic. Some other tips: “The Dark Sky Festival in the fall hosts under the illuminated sky,” says Chaney. “While the winter is all about being in the mountains, the summer is focused on Alberta’s bounty of cerulean-blue lakes and cascading rivers.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Central and South America

Peggy Bree in Huacachina, Peru.

Where to Go: Huacachina, Peru

Chosen By: Peggy Bree, a part-time digital nomad from Toronto, has been working remotely and traveling since she was 23. She is a remote project manager, podcast host of Branding Gems and the owner of Blank Room (find everything here ). Follow her on Instagram for her faith, digital nomad and brand/business life.

Why : Peru is known for Machu Picchu, but 200 miles south of Lima and 10 minutes from the busy city of Ica, you’ll find the latest place to explore: Huacachina, an arid coastal desert town that is home to the world’s second highest sand dune. “This is a new find that people should flock to when they think of Peru. A true oasis in the desert,” says Bree. “There is just no other place like this one—it’s a hidden gem of a find where I fell in awe of the change of scenery.”

Adventurers come here from all over the world to check out 3,860-foot Cerro Blanco’s desert thrills, from riding dune buggies to sand boarding. “The Jeep rides are so fun and adventurous. Imagine a wild ride with no roads and no set direction,” says Bree. “You can also just look over the desert in deep thought—whatever floats your boat. Personally, I had such a grand time just in reflection of how beautiful Huacachina is.”

Whatever you do, be sure to wake up early. “You’ll have the oasis to yourself before the tourists come,” says Bree. “The sunrise and sunset view is also a gem.”

Placencia beach in Belize.

Where to Go: Belize

Chosen By: Stephanie Vermillion , a travel journalist and photographer covering stories at the intersection of culture and adventure for publications like Outside Magazine, National Geographic and Travel + Leisure . Follow her work and adventures on Instagram .

Why: Home to mystical Maya sites, wondrous aquatic habitats and lush national parks, Belize is one of Central America’s most biodiverse countries, touting tropical jungles, wildlife reserves and cascading flora and fauna. “There’s a reason Belize is buzzing this year: new hotels like sustainable glamping oasis Hills and Valley promise the ultimate Central American immersion, while a host of new nonstop flights make getting here a breeze,” says Vermillion. “But these tourism additions are merely supporting characters in my ultimate reason to visit Belize right now: connection. It’s something we all crave after two odd years of paused travel; it’s also where Belize shines.”

“There’s connection to wildlife via dive and snorkel trips along the awe-striking Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The new Marriott Autograph Collection property Alaia Belize , the country’s first and only luxury resort to offer PADI dive certification, gets you outside your comfort zone and into the heart of the Caribbean Sea action via its onsite dive shop,” she says.

The Belize Tourism Board is increasingly building pathways for travelers to connect with and support indigenous communities, especially on the southeast coast of Belize, where a blend of culture and adventure provides a perfect getaway for culture enthusiasts, thrill seekers and beach lovers. The charming laid-back villages and seaside communities of Dangria and Hopkins are the cultural heart and pride of the Garifuna people, who invite visitors to join in cultural dances and musical drums at Lebeha Drumming Center and delicious exotic foodie indulgences at the female-owned Tugucina Gloria . Belize is home to the world’s only jaguar preserve in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, spectacular jungle vistas, ziplining and waterfall rappelling in the Mayflower Bocawina National Park . And then there’s Placencia, the traditional Kriol (Creole) fishing village, which is known locally as “Barefoot Perfect.” It’s the ideal location to enjoy 16 miles of unspoiled beaches.

Galapagos sea lions sunbathing at the beach of Espanola island in the Galapagos Islands.

Where to Go: Ecuador

Chosen By: Katie Jackson has somehow made a living as a full-time travel writer since 2015 when an African safari turned into seven years of living out of a suitcase. In between trips, she can be found recuperating in Montana. She shares her adventures, and misadventures, on IG @katietalkstravel .

Why: In January, Jackson had the pleasure of sailing on Hurtigruten’s first Galapagos Islands expedition . “I returned with a newfound appreciation for wildlife, especially for birds, which I never thought would happen,” she says.

Also in January, the president of Ecuador established a new reserve that will triple the size of the Galapagos Islands’ protected area. It will extend all the way to Costa Rica, effectively creating a superhighway for fragile marine life. Among the unique species travelers can only see—or perhaps better said, encounter—in the islands are marine iguanas (the only seafaring iguanas), Galapagos tortoises (who can live to be 150 years old) and Darwin’s famous finches (essential to the theory of evolution).

“There’s nothing comparable to the thrill of snorkeling alongside utterly adorable—and equally playful—sea lions,” Jackson explains. “They were so curious and comfortable around us. One even hopped aboard our ship and tried to be a stowaway.”

Of course, mainland Ecuador—one of the most bio-diverse places on earth—is also worth checking out, whether your ideal destination involves volcanoes, rainforests, beaches or all three. Then there’s Quito, the first city to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated high in the Andes at an elevation of 9,350 feet, it’s also the highest constitutional capital in the world.

Jackson says she has heard phenomenal things from her travel writer friends about Mashpi Lodge : “It has won numerous industry awards and boasts a sky bike, an open-air cable car and a hummingbird garden.” She’s also eager to try Zazu —a Michelin-star worthy Relais & Chateaux restaurant in Quito. “The chef handpicks the fishermen he sources from and uses produce grown in his personal greenhouse.”

A pool at the Met Hotel in La Paz.

Where to Go: La Paz, Bolivia

Chosen By: Canela Ugalde, cofounder of How To La Paz , experience designer for Salar Art+Travel and gallery owner.

Why: While the Salar de Uyuni salt flats remain Bolivia’s top tourist attraction, La Paz—the city that touches the clouds and is the gateway to this natural wonder—has proven to be much more than a mere stopover. “Before the pandemic, La Paz was well under way to becoming the region’s top destination,” says Ugalde. “I truly believe we are picking the ball right up where we left it and coming out stronger than ever.”

New hotels, restaurants and experiences are popping up that reflect the culture’s values: authenticity and uniqueness. “ Met Hotel is a good example—a hotel built during the pandemic,” she says. “It will honor different cultural aspects of contemporary Bolivia. The hotel doubles as an art platform for local artists, which focuses on giving the visitor a taste of Bolivia through its architecture, design and cuisine.”

Other projects on the horizon that will be delivering unforgettable and unique experiences include the Panorama Hotel and Casa Gastón. “These will be one-of-a-kind spaces, unlike any other place you’ve ever visited, where you’ll feel the sense of wonder that only the Salt Flats can offer,” says Ugalde.

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Europe

Le Comptoir at The Ritz Paris.

Where to Go: Paris

Chosen By: Lindsey Tramuta is a travel and culture writer based in Paris and the author of the bestselling book The New Paris and the newly released The New Parisienne . Follow her on Instagram .

Why : “This city is super resilient,” says Tramuta. “You have this reawakening of the city, which is really beautiful.” For starters, there was the recent opening of the Hôtel de la Marine museum. “It’s extraordinary—it was closed to the public since the 1800s,” says Tramuta. “And its new museum restaurant, Mimosa by Michelin-starred chef Jean François Piège, is also a huge new reason to visit.” More cultural highlights: the reopening of the Musée de la Chasse et de La Nature (“super eclectic and super funky,” says Tramuta) and the new Bourse de Commerce art museum. And everyone’s talking about the reopening of Samaritaine , the Art Deco and Art Nouveau department store. “Even if you’re not necessarily in the market to shop for anything, architecturally it’s worth seeing, both outside and inside,” says Tramuta.

Tramuta also notes that there’s a lot of buzz happening at the Ritz Paris . “François Perret, their extremely talented pastry chef, has opened Le Comptoir , which is a dedicated pastry shop and tea salon where you can go and try pastries exclusive to this space—and it’s beautiful.” More big news from the Ritz includes the opening of the new astrologically inspired Ritz Bar and the upcoming reconcepting of the Ritz Club Spa.

Some other new culinary hotspots on Tramuta’s radar include Jugaad (“a terrific modern Indian restaurant”) and La Petite Epicerie de la Tour , a gourmet grocer from La Tour d’Argent, one of the most iconic restaurants in the world. “If you don’t want to take the time or the money to eat at the restaurant, you can have a taste of it here,” says Tramuta.

Another noteworthy development in Paris is the extraordinary extension of all of the bike lanes. “It really changes the way we navigate the city, and from a traveler’s perspective, it means that the pedestrian and the bike rider are all kings of the road,” says Tramuta.

Calton Hill in Edinburgh.

Where to Go: Edinburgh and Fife, Scotland

Who : Emily Goldfischer, London-based writer, hotel lover and founder of the website hertelier .

Why : A five-hour direct flight from the East Coast of the United States, those looking to dip their toes back into travel can look no further than Edinburgh and Fife in Scotland. “You’ll fall in love with the compact, hilly and history-filled capital of Edinburgh and the stunning peninsula of Fife, considered the Hamptons of Scotland but better known as the birthplace of golf,” says Goldfischer.

The big news in Edinburgh is St. James Quarter , a hub of shops, restaurants and hotels like the W Edinburgh (which will add a contemporary twist to the ever-changing skyline) and Roomzzz (a boutique living experience). Other Edinburgh hotel news includes The Gleneagles Townhouse (opening in St. Andrew Square) and 100 Princes Street Hotel (a bold statement by Red Carnation set to breathe new life into one of the city’s more important addresses). “You will be spoiled for choice of ways to spend a few glorious days,” says Goldfischer. “Edinburgh is perfect for strolling and there’s a burgeoning food scene with amazing farm-to-table options.” Check out Edinburgh’s first food hall, the Bonnie and Wild Scottish Marketplace , and the new Johnnie Walker Princes Street , which brings to life the story of the brand and its makers.

Beyond the city is Fife, a 50-mile drive along the Scottish coastline. “St. Andrews is perhaps the most glorious of all the towns in Fife, with its West Sands Beach, a two-mile stretch made famous from running scenes in the 1981 movie, Chariots of Fire ,” says Goldfischer. Its seven golf courses include Old Course (where the British Open will be held in 2022) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (founded in 1754 and considered the birthplace of golf). “Even if you have no interest or never played golf, don’t miss the Himalayas , a manicured 18-hole undulating putting course that changes every week,” says Goldfischer. “Stay at the Old Course hotel , home to the only Kohler spa outside the U.S. and a Mecca for golfers.”

A view of Porto in Portugal.

Where to Go: Portugal

Why: Once the most underrated country in Western Europe, Portugal is now on every traveler’s radar—and for good reason. It’s more affordable than neighboring Spain and France, its home to the world’s first demarcated wine region and its comfortable climate makes it a year-round destination.

“In April, my girlfriend and I are sailing to Portugal on the maiden voyage of Celebrity Beyond , captained by Kate McCue, America’s first female cruise ship captain,” says Jackson. “It’s our second trip to Portugal since August—we can’t seem to stay away.”

New nonstop flights from the U.S. on Azores Airlines mean it’s never been easier to reach Madeira , a stunning subtropical archipelago off the coast of Africa and basically Portugal’s answer to Hawaii. Thanks to new nonstop flight service from United, Americans can also conveniently island hop in the Azores , where dolphin and whale watching is practically an Olympic sport. Other Insta-worthy beaches can be found in the always-sunny Algarve , or if you’re a surfer, in the north, where the world’s largest standing wave attracts surfers from as far away as Australia.

For the past few years Jackson’s home-away-from-home in Portugal has been Onda Pura Surf Center in Porto . “Their local instructors—who speak perfect English—had me catching waves in the very first class.”

As far as accommodations go, booklovers will think they’ve died and gone to heaven in Obidos at The Literary Man whose collection includes more than 65,000 titles. In Lisbon, all the buzz is about the newest hotel, The Ivens , and its culinary offerings including a crudo bar, gastro bar and Rocco , an elegant Italian restaurant complete with a red carpet entrance.

Rooftop with a view at Six Senses Rome.

Where to Go: Rome

Chosen By: Laura Itzkowitz , a Rome-based travel writer.

Why: With a treasure trove of artistic, cultural and architectural wonders, Rome is coming back to life in 2022—and then some. “In addition to welcoming a handful of exciting new hotels, including Six Senses Rome , the Eternal City is creating new museum and pedestrian walkways that will give visitors an up-close view of the Sacred Area of Torre Argentina , the ancient site where Julius Caesar is believed to have been assassinated,” says Itzkowitz.

Set in a palazzo in the center of ancient Rome, just blocks away from the Fontana di Trevi, the new Six Senses is the brand’s first property in Italy and will have an emphasis on wellness and sustainability, from local, seasonal food to interiors from designer Patricia Urquiola. One of the highlights is the rooftop terrace, showcasing 360-degree views of Rome.

Other big news for the Eternal City: “Last year, the Mausoleum of Augustus —the world’s largest circular tomb—reopened to the public after an €8 million restoration,” says Itzkowitz.

Big Ben and Westminster Bridge in London.

Where to Go: London

Chosen By: Melissa Klurman —travel expert and contributor at Reader’s Digest , The Points Guy and Travel Awaits .

Why: “It’s been more than two years since I was in Europe, a length of time I couldn’t have imagined pre-pandemic,” says Klurman. “And I’m excited to cross the pond again and visit London, one of my favorite cities, which is easy to visit in 2022 since Great Britain no longer has Covid-testing requirements for entry.” One big highlight in 2022: the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. There will be royal watching and events and, in June, a weekend of pageants and parades worth a special visit.

“In addition to lots of royal excitement, there are some creative new theatrical offerings I’m excited to explore, including outdoor Shakespeare at the Globe and museum exhibits like the Van Gogh Self-Portraits at the Courtald Gallery,” says Klurman, who is also looking forward to taking advantage of GoCity passes, which are completely digital now. “So we can pop into iconic spots like Tower of London without having to spend our time queuing.”

Where to stay: The Nhow London on the fringes of trendy Shoreditch launched during the pandemic and is now primed for its first fully active summer. This is a hotel for design lovers, which is evident as soon as you step into the lobby and spot the 10-foot-tall statue of a rocket-ship Big Ben trailing tennis balls or the Day-Glo green centerpiece bar where you can grab a craft cocktail or a pint any time of day or night. Up in the rooms, the theatrically lit halls feel like you've stepped onto a London street with brightly painted doors resembling the entrances to British homes, complete with large brass knockers. Rooms sport fun details big and small from hanging bowler hat lamps to wall-size portraits of British Kings in the, ahem, throne room, to get you fully in the mood for a Royal Jubilee summer.

Barcelona with a view of La Sagrada Familia.

Where to Go: Barcelona

Chosen By: Alyssa Ramos, founder of My Life’s a Movie and a solo female travel blogger, content creator, entrepreneur and social media influencer who travels the world full-time and seeks to showcase unique destinations through her unique photography style and honest, detailed travel tips. Her motto is “Dreams Don't Work Unless You Do.”

Why: “There’s just something about Barcelona that attracts everyone and draws them in like a moth to a flame,” says Ramos. “Even the way the name rolls off your tongue is alluring, and once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave. I know this for a fact because I’m now based there, and even when I have an epic travel lineup, it’s still hard for me to pry myself away.”

Barcelona welcomes all types of travelers, from solo to couples, and even pets—Spain now considers dogs part of the family. When you’re visiting Barcelona, you’ll want to try some local cuisine; Ramos’s top recommendations are Bar Cañete or 7 Portes for paella, and Bar del Pla or Cerveceria Catalana for tapas. “If you’re looking for fun bars, Paradiso and Dr. Stravinsky are some of the most famous in the world,” says Ramos. “But there’s also some local secret spots that are less touristy, like Somnia .”

While the Gothic Quarter (or Barri Gòtic) and El Born are most popular for tourists to stroll along the many cobblestone streets, also check out Eixample for a local vibe, as well as Gràcia. “La Barceloneta, the main beach area, is a lot of fun with its many restaurants and chiringuitos (little bar/restaurants right in the sand), but if you walk further north, there’s also a strip of restaurants that turn into day clubs then night clubs,” says Ramos. “My favorite is Carpe Diem .”

Rooftops are also a glorious thing in Barcelona, and you can go up to most of them as long as you order at least a drink. “ Ohla and GHotel are a couple of my favorites, and Ayre Hotel is most famous but nearly impossible to get a reservation (it overlooks La Sagrada Familia),” says Ramos. “After you’ve seen all the main sites and neighborhoods, you can keep exploring by doing a hike up to Montjuïc or even Tibidabo, the castle-looking church you can see atop a massive hill from anywhere in town.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Africa and the Middle East

Female Rangers in Mghahinga National Park in Uganda.

Where to Go: Uganda

Chosen By: Christine Chitnis is a writer, photographer and author of four books, including Patterns of India . She is currently at work on her fifth book, Patterns of Portugal. Follow her colorful interpretation of life at @christine.chitnis .

Why: Uganda shares the Virunga Mountains with Rwanda, and thus the same quality of gorilla trekking experiences can be found in Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. Luckily for travelers, permits are more than half the cost of permits in Rwanda.

The great ape experience doesn’t have to end with gorillas. Uganda has many parks for chimpanzee trekking, the Kyambura Gorge being one of the more unique. Located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can trek a family of 32 chimps in a sunken forest by morning and go on a cruise safari down the Kazinga Channel River, where sightings of elephants, buffalo, alligators, hippos are seen from this unique vantage point.

“I recently traveled with Go2Africa as I wanted to explore the intersection of travel and conservation in East Africa,” says Chitnis. “The country is brimming with impactful conservation work by inspiring leaders like Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka of Conservation Through Public Health and Praveen Moman, founder of Volcanoes Safaris , a pioneering great ape tourism company that couples world-class lodges with community-minded initiatives including a women-run coffee cooperative, a wetlands restoration project and the construction of a community center in a local village.”

Another thing not to miss in Uganda: a private island on the Nile River. Wildwaters Lodge sits on a rainforest reserve on 16 protected acres and is an adventure seeker’s paradise with access to white-water rafting, horseback riding, ziplining and more.

Where to Go: Zanzibar and Tanzania

Why: Tanzania is an ideal African country to visit, from safaris in the Serengeti where you can see the Big 5 (leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino) to the crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar. “If you’ve never done a safari before, prepare to be awestruck by the amount of animals you’ll see from the safety of your safari vehicle,” says Ramos. “Now is a really great time to go to Tanzania, because with the lack of tourism, the amount of animals has drastically increased.”

“After long game drives, you’ll then retire to fabulous glamping lodges, many of which are in the actual parks,” says Ramos. Some new places for 2022 to put on your radar: andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge (which has an ideal location for experiencing the thrilling river crossing and vast herds of the Great Migration) and Usangu Expedition Camp (where you can have a hands-on conservation experience at the first tourism operation in the wild and uncharted Usangu wetlands of Ruaha National Park).

“If bucket-list checks or personal challenges are your thing, I’d highly recommend going for the Mount Kilimanjaro climb,” says Ramos. “I did it for International Women’s Day one year with an all-female group, and it was absolutely amazing.”

A quick flight or ferry will get you to the exotic island of Zanzibar. “But before you head off to enjoy the many tantalizing beaches, be sure to stop in Stone Town to learn about the dark history of the island, and how the slave trade markets originated there,” says Ramos. “One of my favorite boutique hotels in the entire world is located in Zanzibar; it’s called Tulia and it has its own jungle waterslides, plus an entire garden where they source their produce for the restaurant.”

On the balcony of Singita Lebombo, overlooking the N’wanetsi River.

Where: South Africa

Chosen By: Hannah Freedman, a former travel editor and current content strategist for Travel + Leisure . Follow along on her trips at @hfreed11 on Instagram and @awaywithhannahj on TikTok.

Why: With history, culture, awe-inspiring animal sightings, bustling cities and a stunning wine region, South Africa is the best of all worlds. It even brings the romance. “I recently visited South Africa for my bucket list-worthy honeymoon and it was truly the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a transformative trip you’ll never forget,” says Freedman. Plus, South Africa just recently relaxed its Covid testing requirements, making it easier for vaccinated travelers to visit.

United offers direct flights between New York City and Johannesburg, making Joburg a good place to start your journey. Get a history lesson by visiting the Apartheid Museum (which reopens following Covid shutdowns April 1), the Mandela House and the Hector Pieterson Museum . Then continue in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela with a stay at the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa . “You’ll feel a world away from the chaotic city streets thanks to its manicured garden grounds and multiple pools,” says Freedman. In addition to Mandela living at the property for six months, other notable past guests include the Clintons, Will Smith and even Oprah.

“Of course, you can’t visit South Africa without spending a few days in Kruger National Park,” advises Freedman. And a stay at all-inclusive Singita Lebombo or Singita Sweni is just the way to see epic wildlife and sleep in style. The two properties are right next to one another on a private concession of 33,000 acres within the park. “Singita has thought of every last detail to make this place a serious spoil,” says Freedman. “The wildlife is next level, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and the rooms are stunning.” The best animal encounter she experienced? Swimming at the on-site pool when a wild elephant came right up to munch on a nearby tree and steal a drink of water.

Round out your adventure with a last stop in Cape Town and the Winelands. Hike up Table Mountain for incredible city and ocean views and then head to Boulders Beach to spot the iconic penguin colony. For a luxe stay that includes plenty of culture, check in at estate-turned-boutique-property Ellerman House . “The private art collection here alone is worth it,” notes Freedman. The Winelands are just a 45-minute drive from the city, making it an easy day trip. Freedman recommends visiting Babylonstoren for delicious farm-to-table food with your wine and Delaire Graff Estate for romantic vista views.

Sunset over Wadi Rum in Jordan, one of the top places to travel in 2022.

Where to Go: Jordan

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller .

Why: If you’re looking to dip your foot into solo travel in the Middle East, Jordan is the destination to do it. Over the past year, Jordan has heavily invested in repaving highways and improving access to tourist sites. “Plus, to better meet the needs of solo female travelers in Jordan , there are more women-led and women-operated tour guides and experiences,” says Kingsman. Whether you join a group trip or set off driving in Jordan on your own, your journey should start in Amman. “Amman is a whirlwind,” says Kingsman, who spent her days weaving in and out of the bustling sidewalks.

As you leave the city, head south to the Dead Sea, where you can float in the lowest point on Earth. “Insider’s tip, though,” Kingsman notes, “Don’t get the water in your mouth. Just trust me on that.” Another tip: “You might want to go sooner rather than later, as the Dead Sea is predicted to disappear in the next few decades.” If you’re interested in the Holy Land, just a short drive from the Dead Sea, you can visit the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ .

But of course, you can’t leave Jordan without heading to the desert. “If you’ve never camped under the stars, Wadi Rum is the place to do it,” says Kingsman, who suggests staying at Captain’s Camp , where you can experience sleeping in a cave, eating authentic Jordanian BBQ and getting in a dance battle with the staff. Then, in the morning, visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World: Petra. “Make sure to get an early start at Petra,” says Kingsman. “It can get hot in the middle of the day, so bring water and walking shoes.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Asia and Oceania

Jessica Nabongo in Kyoto, Japan. Image from her forthcoming book, "The Catch Me If You Can. "

Where to Go: Kyoto, Japan

Chosen By: Jessica Nabongo , travel expert, writer, photographer and author of The Catch Me If You Can , which goes on sale June 14 and will be available wherever books are sold; pre-order it now on Amazon or your preferred retailer.

Why: “Tokyo is such an important city for so many things, but what Kyoto does is show you the heart of Japanese culture,” says Nabongo, who lived in the ancient capital for one year. According to Nabongo, 2022 will be a great time to visit. “When Japan does open its borders, there will be a narrow window of time to see Kyoto without the crowds before visitors start coming back,” she says.

Even though borders have been closed, Kyoto has not stopped moving forward. New hotel openings include the luxurious Hotel the Mitsui , The Shinmonzen and the Marufukuro Hotel (in the old Nintendo headquarters building). Throughout the pandemic, the city of Kyoto also made a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050, and initiated steps to curb overtourism in the city, including developing a consulting arm of the tourism board to provide tech support and social media training in the hopes of building awareness of less-visited stores and neighborhoods to reroute crowds away from high-volume areas.

Kyoto City is looking forward to a new point of view on tourism in 2022 and beyond. The Kyoto City Tourism Association installed live cameras around the city’s hotspots, including the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Nishiki Food Market, so that locals and tourists alike can check the congestion levels before venturing to those areas.

“Kyoto’s history as the ancient capital shines through, too. The city has a beautiful golden palace called Kinkaku-ji that makes for a super interesting visit,” says Nabongo. “And the food scene is incredible; you’ll find cool izakayas everywhere. If you’re looking to do a cultural deep-dive of Japan, Kyoto is the place to do it.”

V Villas Phuket in Thailand.

Where to Go: Phuket, Thailand

Chosen By: Content creator Shelbi Okumura of Bucket List Bums . Follow her on @bucketlistbums .

Why: “Thailand was one of the first destinations in Southeast Asia to open back up to tourists, and that early buzz now has everyone wanting to visit,” says Okumura. “Phuket particularly seems to be on everyone’s bucket list, and for good reason. It caters to everyone from high-end luxury travelers to backpackers on a budget.”

Travelers to Phuket in 2022 will experience the vibrancy of the island with fewer crowds, and starting April 1, without the requirement for proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours prior to travel via three entry schemes, including Test & Go, Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine (AQ).

“There’s so much to see and do on the island—remote beaches, sunset bars, cheap eats, high-end restaurants, offshore islands and so much more,” says Okumura. “It’s the perfect place to start (or end) a week of island hopping in Thailand.”

Phuket offers options for all types of travelers looking to experience its pristine sea glass–colored water, and the island’s luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves. The new V Villas Phuket offers a curated selection of villas with private pools and one of the newest rooftop bars, AKOYA Star Lounge , serving craft cocktails and 360-degree ocean views. Phuket Old Town is a cultural hub for distinct street art, street vendors and live music at the Sunday night market, inventive eateries such as farm-to-table Torry’s Ice Cream and daring night performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which recently launched a weekly Saturday night show.

The Melbourne skyline with bathing huts in the foreground.

Where to Go: Victoria, Australia

Chosen By: Oksana St John is a travel writer and founder of an award-winning sustainable travel blog, DrinkTeaTravel.com . Together with her husband, Max, she’s on a mission to explore the world in a responsible way. You can follow their journey on their blog and see behind the scenes of their travels on Instagram and YouTube .

Why: “After being closed to international tourists for almost two years, tourism in Australia is coming back in full force in 2022 and if you are looking to escape the crowds while visiting, then Victoria is the place to go,” says St John. Victoria —the state that’s home to Melbourne, once called the “Paris of the South”—is welcoming a number of new accommodations and local experiences. A few standout hotel openings for 2022 include the Ritz Carlton Melbourne (the tallest hotel in Australia, complete with a sky check-in on level 79), Peppers Richmond (set on the historic Bridge Road in Melbourne’s lively inner-city suburb) and the Shangri-La Hotel, Melbourne (part of a stunning new development, Sapphire by the Gardens).

Want to check out the city’s insider spots? The best way to do it is on a tour with Hidden Secrets Tours. “There is always more to discover and make new memories each visit,” says founder Fiona Sweetman. “You just have to know where to look.”

If you only have a few days to spare, take a day trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island. “Stay in the charming Oak Tree Lodge , have a fabulous meal overlooking the ocean at The Cape Kitchen , go for a hike at Cape Woolamai and don’t miss the Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach,” says St John. If you have a bit more time, go on a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, or if you are fit, join the 12 Apostles Lodge Walk with the Australian Walking Company . “You’ll stay in environmentally conscious luxury accommodation, eat fabulous locally sourced meals and enjoy a foot spa at the end of each day,” says St John.

Cap off your visit with a few days in the Yarra Valley, Victoria’s lush wine country just an hour outside of Melbourne. “Enjoy a stay in a picturesque setting and pop by some cellar doors for a taste of great Australian wines. Don’t miss a stop at De Bortoli and try their comprehensive tasting menu perfectly matched with a selection of local cheese,” says St John.

Some other can’t-miss Victoria experiences include Alba , a new luxurious thermal spring and spa coming to the Mornington Peninsula. Grampians Peak Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime 13-day hike, complete with new roofed huts and campgrounds available for booking this spring. And at Sea Bounty Mussels in Portarlington, guests can harvest mussels fresh from the farm and have them cooked on the boat for a truly bespoke experience.

• Quit Your Job And Move Abroad: 10 Cheapest Places To Live

• The U.S. Is Home To One Of The 20 Most Welcoming Places On Earth

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions