Things are pretty strange in the world right now, especially for avid travelers. Those of us who are used to planning trips, creating a travel budget, and collecting passport stamps are now working from home – if we’re lucky enough. Even those of us with digital nomad jobs are staying put for the foreseeable future.
But this won’t always be the case. Even though the travel world has been put on pause as a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, we’re still sending out flight deals daily and thinking about all the amazing places we can’t wait to travel to when this is all over.
So if you’re in need of someday dream-worthy travel inspiration, join us in adding these incredible destinations to your travel bucket list.
1. Banff, Canada
Canada’s oldest national park is home to some of its most beautiful natural landscapes. The pristine glacial lakes of this park – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake being the most popular – are famous for their icy blue water. Inside the park, you’ll also find soothing hot springs, breathtaking hikes, and world-class luxury hotels, if that’s your thing.
2. Paris, France
Some call it “The City of Love,” while others know it as “The City of Lights.” Either way, one thing that can’t be debated in the undeniable beauty of Paris. The French capital made its way onto our Top 20 Trending Destinations of 2020 list thanks to its vast boulevards, storybook architecture, and serene parks. Heck, with pastel-colored macarons and artfully decorated pastries, even the food is beautiful in Paris.
3. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
In Vietnamese, Ha Long means “descending dragon” – a telling nod to the deep cultural significance of this vast bay. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, thousands of tree-topped towering limestone islands jut out of emerald green waters that seem to go on forever. The best way to experience this beautiful natural wonder is to board an overnight cruise through the bay, where you can get up close and personal with the islets as you learn the myths and legends of this magical place.
4. Machu Pichu, Peru
This ancient Inca citadel sits high in Peru’s Andes mountains, shrouded by mist. Once you make the trek to this ancient city, you immediately understand why it’s among the most famous archeological landmarks in the world. Though you’ve seen endless pictures of Peru’s most popular attraction, the stone ruins, lush greenery, and mountainous backdrop make Macchu Pichu a place that you must see to believe.
5. Oia, Santorini, Greece
Santorini is probably best known for the iconic whitewashed houses and blue dome churches that dot the scenic cliffs of Oia. While the undeniable beauty of Santorini has caused an increase in crowds, there is still plenty of room to immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of this volcanic island gem.
6. Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
The majesty of this national park is truly second to none. Torres Del Paine is a nature lover’s dream – the kind of place that lets you truly experience the wonder and magnificence of the great outdoors. You can hike breathtaking trails – the most popular taking as long as nine days– or kayak right up to the icebergs on Lake Grey. With its icy blue waters, towering granite horns, and vast plains filled with guanacos (a relative of the llama) horses, and pumas, Torres Del Paine is truly a bucket list worthy destination.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Along this picturesque stretch of Mediterranean coastline, soaring cliffs are dotted by beautiful, pastel-colored homes and tiny beaches. The scenic towns – namely Positano and Ravello – along Italy’s legendary Almafi Coast are seemingly straight off a postcard. Whether you’d like to savor the tastes of Italy’s finest restaurants, soak up the Mediterranean sun, or just take in the awe-inspiring beauty on some of the country’s best hikes, the Amalfi coast is absolutely a must-visit.
8. Serengeti National Park
Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is perhaps best known for the annual migration of millions of wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles, with their natural predators following not far behind. The park’s 1.5 million hectares is also home to some of the earth’s most majestic creatures, including elephants, lions, leopards, black rhinos, hippos, among countless others.
9. Ubud, Bali
Though now known as a digital nomad paradise, Ubud has long been famous for its lush jungles, towering rice terraces, and alluring spiritual vibe that envelops the entire town. If you’re looking to get out of the crowded town square, hop on a motorbike and explore the countryside on your way to one of the area’s many jawdropping waterfalls. If you’re not careful, you just might end up being so seduced by the magic of Bali’s most famous town that you consider finally becoming a digital nomad.
10. Grand Canyon, Arizona
In a word: majestic. The immense steep-sided, red rock canyon is probably the most iconic natural landmark in America. A mile deep and 18 miles wide at its widest point, the Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Carved by the relentless force of the Colorado River, the canyon reveals technicolor red rock, as well as millions of years of erosion and history.
11. Krabi, Thailand
With more than 100 offshore islands, Krabi is one of the world’s top beach destinations. Located on the west coast of southern Thailand, Krabi’s pristine white sand beaches, lush mangrove forests, and majestic limestone karsts are loved by budget travelers and luxury travelers alike. Base yourself in Ao Nang and rent a wooden long-tail boat to do some serious island hopping and snorkeling. If you’re tired of exploring only at sea level, head to the laid back island of Railay and try your hand at rock climbing.
12. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Plummeting 807 meters (2,647 ft) from a flat-topped mountain plateau into the canyon below, Angel Falls is the world’s largest waterfall with a drop 19 times higher than Niagra Falls. The falls are so remote and surrounded by dense wilderness that they’re best seen from the air. However, it has become popular to see the falls by boats that take you to a lagoon where visitors can hike to various viewpoints.
13. Sossusvlei, Namibia
Located in Namibia’s coastal desert, Sossusvlei is home to some of the world’s tallest sand dunes. With the endless sea of rolling sandhills that turn a vibrant red, pink, or orange – depending on the light – as well as flat white salt and claypans, exploring Sossusvlei feels a lot like trekking on a distant planet.
14. Blue Lagoon, Iceland
This geothermal spa is arguably the most famous attraction in Iceland, a country brimming with mindblowing natural landscapes and attractions. The milky blue water is famous for its therapeutic properties and otherworldly appearance. The water is rich in minerals that are said to be great for your skin, making it perfect for a make-your-own mud mask!
15. Faroe Islands
This self-governing (belonging to Denmark) archipelago is made of 18 volcanic islands between Norway and Iceland. Here steep cliffs, majestic fjords, awe-inspiring hikes, and plummeting waterfalls dot the lush emerald green landscape. Though the natural sightseeing here is among the best in the world, you won’t have to worry about fighting the crowds, as sheep actually outnumber humans here 2:1.
16. Bagan, Myanmar
The former capital of an ancient kingdom, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 2,000 remaining Buddhist temples and pagodas (originally over 10,000). The absolute best place to get a truly breathtaking view of this mesmerizing landscape is from above. Take a hot air balloon at sunrise as the sunlight cuts through the morning mist, creating a lasting memory that even the best photo could never fully match.
17. Trolltunga, Norway
This spectacular “Troll’s Tongue,” as its name is translated, is an iconic rock formation and one of Norway’s most photographed attractions. Jutting out 700 meters (2,296 feet) above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, Trolltunga has become a highly desired photo spot for travelers. But the photo opportunity doesn’t come easy, as Trolltunga is at the end of an hour-long hike. Fortunately for those who’ve got this spot on their bucket list, the hike is lined with jawdropping mountain scenery.
18. Mt Fuji, Japan
The iconic mountain has been revered and worshipped in Japan for generations, and it’s not hard to see why. While summiting this active volcano is a personal goal for many, Mt Fuji is actually best viewed from a distance. For the best views, visit one of the Fuji Five Lakes in the springtime for bonus cherry blossoms to go with your view of the picturesque mountain.
19. Na Pali Coast, Hawaii
Na Pali is the most famous part of Kauai’s gorgeous coastline. Na Pali’s extraordinary natural beauty lies in its rugged, natural, undeveloped landscapes with hidden beaches and towering waterfalls. Though committed hikers can get up close to Na Pali’s natural splendor, the true beauty of Na Pali is best seen from a distance – either by helicopter or catamaran.
20. The Maldives
Perhaps the most surprising addition to our 20 Trending Destinations list, a trip to the Maldives is the once-in-a-lifetime beach getaway that so many travelers dream of. Idyllic white sand beaches, lavish and luxurious over-water bungalows, along with some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving make the Maldives truly a holiday maker’s paradise.
This list barely scratches the surface of places we’re dying to see once it’s time to start traveling again. In the meantime, we’re still here to help you plan for these incredible trips and more. Signup for Dollar Flight Club for free and never miss another flight deal again.
