It’s still winter and you’ve probably been wondering, “what are the top 10 places to visit that isn’t here“. Even though summer is quickly approaching I’m sure most of us are tired of the long and cold winter, right? Are you in need of a vacation but don’t know which places to visit? Whether you’re looking for adventures or more laid-back vacays we’ve got you covered. Here’s our list of the top 10 places to visit around the world.
Our list will cover top 10 places to visit from each continent in no specific order. Lean back as you read, picture yourself there, imagine the sand between your toes and the sun on your face!
1. Indonesia
Indonesia is a Southeast Asian nation made up of thousands of volcanic islands. It is home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many different languages. It’s known for its beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles that shelter elephants, orangutans and tigers. On the island of Java lies Indonesia’s vibrant, sprawling capital, Jakarta, and the city of Yogyakarta, known for gamelan music and traditional puppetry. Some of the most popular islands to stay at are Bali, Raja Ampat, Wakatobi and Lombok.
Things to do & see…
Indonesia is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it offers lots of diversity, culture and history. It’s very budget-friendly and there’s so much to do and see here! Meet the Komodo dragons at Komodo National Park. Swim with the jellyfish off the coast of the island of Kakaban or hang out with orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park. Indonesia is home to several natural wonders, amongst them the Borobudur temple, the three colored lake in Dieng Plateau National Park and Mt. Bromo to name a few.
You can choose to stay in hotels, hostels or villas – you can even opt for Airbnb. There are great spaces to meet your every need starting from $20 per night! Indonesia is ridiculously affordable. This beautiful, spacious and modern Balinese home is only $29 per night, while this luxury type home is only $135 per night. While you can certainly find fair prices for Bali hotels, a four or five star hotel can cost you $300-$500 per night. Figure out what type of trip you want to decide the best accommodation for you.
2. Malta
Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast. One of the warmest places in Europe during the winter months, if you’re looking to go to Europe around this time Malta is the destination. It’s a nation known for historic sites related to a succession of rulers including the Romans, Moors, Knights of Saint John, French and British. It has numerous fortresses, megalithic ancient temples and a subterranean complex of halls and burial chambers dating to circa 4000 B.C. Enjoy the history, feast your eyes on the architecture and cool down on beaches with crystal clear blue water.
Things to do & see…
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a rugged, rainforested Central American country with coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific. Its capital is San Jose. Popular vacation destinations are Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Gulf of Papagayo and Puerto Viejo. Costa Rica is one of the safest Latin American countries known for its luscious jungles, beautiful beaches, volcanoes and biodiverse wildlife. There are 28 national parks to visit. Check out this list of the 10 Best Costa Rica National Parks & Reserves to plan your adventure. Look forward to seeing plenty of monkeys, sloths, macaws and other cute exotic animals. Just look at these guys!
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Costa Rica is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because there is a lot to explore. Roughly a quarter of its area is comprised of protected jungle. You can create your own experience as you plan your trip. If you’re an adventurer you might like to travel around and check out different cities. Consider hotels or hostels if you think you’d like to hop around from location to location as these are cheap means of accommodation. This guide on the dos and don’ts for travellers is a must-read if you plan on experiencing the culture and being amongst the locals.
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If you’re not so big on adventure, there are plenty of places in Costa Rica where you could live the laid-back life. Lounging around, taking in the views, swimming in the ocean or pool and soaking up the sun sound more like it? Private resorts and villas provide accommodation fit for a queen (or king).
Opt for your own luxury pool or for a meal prepared by a chef. The luxury life is nice but it can come with a hefty cost. If you think it’s the right fit for your budget, it’s worth the consideration. Has Costa Rica won you over yet? Interested in the lavish vacay life? Check out luxury retreats in Costa Rica for your next trip.
4. Los Angeles
Don’t have time to go abroad, or just don’t want to? Whether you live in Canada or the US, Los Angeles is a city worth visiting. It has the warm weather your region has deprived you of this winter and more! Visit the beaches, delve into LA culture, check out museums, the hottest restaurants and food, fashion trends and of course the beaches!
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If your a first time LA goer, definitely check out Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach. Already been to LA and need a new experience? This is the inside scoop on the best beaches to visit besides Venice and Santa Monica. Leo Carrillo State Park is located in Malibu 28 miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway, it offers a beach that stretches for more than a mile, dotted with sea caves, tidepools and other beach-combing delights.
El Matador is located about 10 miles northwest of Malibu, this secluded pocket beach has rocky shores, robust waves and some of the clearest water in L.A. If you’re looking to surf, make your way to Surfrider Beach in Malibu for perfect surf waves. Bringing your family along with you? Cabrillo Beach is a tranquil spot near San Pedro, with everything you need for the perfect family outing. This beach is popular among travelers and locals hitting the beach with kids in tow.
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Los Angeles is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it’s a convenient getaway if you live in North America. It’s also cheaper than flying to another country – especially for a family vacation. Just a drive away from surrounding states and if you’re considering make the trek from the East Coast to the West Coast by car, the trip will take you five days of driving for eight hours. Could be an exciting mini road trip with the family.
Not only is it convenient for North Americans but this major city is teeming with art, life and culture. There are 231 museums but we don’t expect you to go to all of them. The top places to go to if you’re into it are Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Natural History Museum, the Getty Center, The Broad and the California Science Center.
Not much of a museum goer, no-big. Aside from the beaches and boardwalks there is plenty to see in LA. Enjoy a day walking through Hollywood Boulevard, maybe take the kids to Disney World or Universal Studios. Or opt for a more low-key vacation by enjoying farmers markets like this one, parks to have family picnics, and zoos.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand is made up of two major land masses (North Island and South Island) and a number of smaller islands including Stewart Island located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Lush with greenery, gorgeous beaches, full of unique wildlife and amazing landscapes make New Zealand a must-see destination. New Zealand is family friendly, with many activities for kids.
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The zoo and wildlife parks are a must-see. They focus on the conservation of rare and exotic animals from around the globe. You’ll find that most animals are in open areas that simulate their natural environments – visitors follow enclosed paths within these habitats. Walk inside enormous bird and butterfly enclosures, or view aquatic animals through huge transparent underwater panels. Enter darkened areas to observe nocturnal creatures, or follow tree top walkways to marvel at the aerial skills of primates.
New Zealand is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because the land of the long white cloud is a marvel to behold and offers the perfect vacation climate. Beautiful mountains and beaches provide a relaxing getaway that’ll recharge you. When you’re not at the beach, explore the national parks, volcano sites and mountains to see wildlife, waterfalls and more. There are fun family activities for the daring such as bungee jumping, sky diving, zip lining, jet boating and rafting. Sound too scary? That’s ok, go for a relaxing sail or dive down under to see subtropical reefs.
6. Morocco
Morocco is a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Rainbows of color and spice market smells. According to CNN, tourism in Morocco has more than doubled since 2002, to nearly 10 million visitors in 2011. The royal ruler King Mohammed wants to increase tourist numbers to 18 million by 2020. The key stone of his strategy is infrastructure development to make traveling around the country even easier.
Add to this a program of ongoing social, political and economic reforms, and Morocco is one of the most moderate and peaceful countries in the region. It is not very likely for you to experience real physical danger when travelling to Morocco, but like other places in the world, it is important to stay vigilant against harassment and petty crime.
Things to do & see
One of the most respected Moroccan art forms is textiles, fabrics and cloths that are ornately decorated and superbly designed. You will be able to shop for unique textiles as you walk the colorful streets of Morocco. Walls, windows and doorways are adorned with beautiful ornate patterns. Morocco is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it is underrated. This country offers experiences others on this list do not.
Unique activities include camel rides, visiting the tree goats – seriously, goats perch on Argania trees to eat nuts – visit one of the beautiful medieval mosques to take amazing photos for your IG or visit the archaeological site of the ancient city of Volubilis.
And of course check out the beaches – duh!
Some things to keep in mind
Morocco is a Muslim country, and whilst some women feel comfortable walking around with their thighs, shoulders or midriff uncovered, others might not be comfortable with the amount of unwanted attention that could. Be respectful of the culture and dress modestly to avoid coming across as disrespectful or “exciting and available”. Check out this article for a guide to what to wear on your Moroccan vacation.
Most mosques are off-limits to non-muslims, but there are some you can visit, like Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. You’ll be able to get by with English but most people in Morocco speak Arabic, French and Spanish so it’s advised to write down some basic words in one of those three languages. For example, “hello”, “thank you”, “help please”and “excuse me/sorry”. When you hear “balak!” move out of the way, this means a large cart is coming down the narrow street.
For more information on this topic check out this article by CNN.
7. Spain
Another warm getaway located in Europe, Spain is a prime vacation destination with beaches lining the coast, stunning architecture and its charming streets and cafes. Siesta all day long on the beach with a good book, soaking up the sun with your family or enjoying Spanish coffee on a patio along the cobble stone streets.
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Llafranc in Costa Brava is a great location that’s large enough to keep a family entertained on a week’s holiday, yet small enough to offer some peace and quiet. Costa Brava consists of little coves chipped out of a rugged, hilly coastline. Go on a road trip along the coast, or go camping at a nearby site for some family bonding. Camping not your thing? Stay in a hotel along Llafranc or a local Airbnb.
Marvel at the gigantic churches and cathedrals that were built in the middle ages. Due to the lengthy construction process at the time several of the cathedrals are an eclectic mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical and Mudéjar styles. Whether you’re into architecture or not, they sure are a sight to behold. Some of the most spectacular cathedrals you should visit are: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, Seville Cathedral and Toledo Cathedral. Learn more about the Top 10 Most Beautiful Cathedrals in Spain from The Culture Trip.
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Spain is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it has some of the best beaches in the world which is important for a winter getaway. There are also some pretty cool things to do here. Spain has a lot of history, and like visiting many countries it’s cool and interesting it to learn about.
Visit the oldest restaurant to still operate in the world, Sobrino de Botin was founded in 1725 and lays in the heart of Madrid.
Check out Reverte Coma Forensic Museum in Compultense University, Madrid if you’re into the morbid and macabre. The museum displays 1,500 odd pieces consisting of deformed skulls of ancient cultures, severed heads from executions, skeletons of children, diseased bones and torture devices. You can also find mummies, weapons made by incarcerated criminals, amulets, a display of poisonous plants and animals and more. If you’re into the creepy stuff this is the place to go!
8. Japan
Pristine beaches, star-studded night skies, searing sunsets and whales splashing in tropical waters are not the usual things to expect on a trip to Japan. Venture about 1000km south of downtown Tokyo and that’s exactly what you’ll find. Southern Japan is quite warm, the regions of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, belong to the temperate zone with humid subtropical climate.
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Japan is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because not only is southern Japan a paradise with stellar beaches and views but they’ve also recently started doing ecotourism. Ecotourism allows travellers to enjoy various forms of recreational activities while also learning about the importance of sustainability and preservation. You can do ecotours for whale and dolphin watching, manta ray encounters and guided hikes in ancient forests, rare wildlife tours and tree house building. Prime time for whale watch is between March and May.
In addition to ecotours, there are water sport options like kayaking through the mangroves, sailing and diving to see the reefs. Aside from its natural attractions, Okinawa has unique cultural experiences to offer that are different from the typical Japanese experience. The traditional dances and music of the Ryukyu Kingdom are still very much alive.
9. Bolivia
Another very safe destination in South America, especially for tourists. This central South American country has various terrains spanning the Andes Mountains, Atacama Desert and Amazon Basin rainforest. Additionally, Bolivia is home to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat and one of the natural wonders of the world. The salt flat is absolutely miraculous and provides great photo opportunities that tons of people get creative with.
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Bolivia is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it has some cool and unique places to explore. Take a stroll through the witch market and pick out a good luck charm – it’s said dried llama fetuses bring prosperity and luck (also the most popular item in the market). You’ll find witch doctors all dressed up in the streets offering to tell your fortune and a host of other items used for folk remedies.
If you’re not into that sorta stuff you’re sure to love these other landscapes. Laguna Colorada is located in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. This red lake that is home to rare flamingos. Valle de Luna, translated to Valley of the Moon is located in Los Flamencos National Reserve. The valley has moonlike landscape of dunes, rugged mountains and distinctive rock formations. Major moon landing photo opportunity!
Do you or your kid love dinosaurs? Take them to the largest site of dinosaur footprints ever found! The dinosaur footprint site is located in Cal Orcko Cretaceous Park. Moreover, the site has more than 5,000 tracks you can see!
10. Vietnam
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country on the South China Sea known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities. A country of exquisite natural beauty and cultural complexity, comprised of dynamic cities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and captivating. Rich history, culture and good food, Vietnam will have you coming back to experience and discover more each time. This destination is almost always one of the top 10 places to visit because it is widely loved by many people.
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Vietnam is in our list of the top 10 places to visit because it simply has to be. See the world’s largest cave only discovered in 1991 in Hang Son Doong, the cave is so large that it could hold a modern-day skyscraper inside of its caverns and, it has its own small jungle! In 2013, public visits started to be offered by Oxalis. Offering the chance to spend days inside exploring, and camping in this massive cave.
Or visit the complex tunnels of Vịnh Mốc. The tunnel network was created in the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone in 1965-66. The villagers fled to the underground as a result of a U.S. air strike during the Vietnam War. What began as a few tunnels that were 32 feet (10 meters) expanded to a network of around 5,200 feet (1600 meters), with 13 entrances leading from the beach and inland hills. Today the tunnels function as a museum.
City Beach in Nha Trang (pictured below) is a delightful south-coast city recognized as Vietnam’s premier beach destination. The sand joins the sea to the city; rolling waves of clear blue water are on one side, while the other is lined with cafes, restaurants and some unusual modern sculptures. This beach offers water sports, daytime boat trips and, of course, fresh fruit.
Have we got you planning your next trip to one of these top 10 places to visit?
Congrats, you made it through this article, we know it was long. Did you like this list of the Top 10 Places to Visit Around the world? Hope it was helpful and informative in deciding where to go, perhaps we’ve even exposed you to options you’ve never considered before!
Are you a regular traveller or do you have a bucket list? What are your top 10 places to visit and how would you rank these destinations?
Let us know in the comments below OR @ us on Twitter or Instagram using #NeededVacayAqua!
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