New year, new adventures, and new countries to check off your list!
Drawing on feedback from our customers and our own thirst for exploration, we've compiled our most-wanted destinations for 2018. Some are beloved classics experiencing a revival, while others are fresh, unexplored territories beckoning to be discovered.
1. Sri Lanka
Instagram post by Charlotte & Josh (@thespindrifters) on January 2, 2018.
Why? As of now, Sri Lanka tops our customer poll. This small teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean is the Asian star of 2018, offering diverse natural beauty and ancient wonders. It's relatively new on the backpacker trail, and travelers can't get enough of its authentic culture and unspoiled landscapes.
Must-dos:
- Take the scenic train journey through tea-covered hills from Kandy to Ella, often called the world's best train ride. sigh
- Climb Adam's Peak. The 7,000 steps are best tackled at sunrise—a popular pilgrimage for locals.
- Head north to Sigiriya and the cultural triangle, packed with ancient temples, ruined cities, and caves adorned with Buddha statues.
- Catch waves at the white-sand surf havens of Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, or Arugam Bay.
- Try your luck spotting grazing elephants and leopards in Yala National Park or Minneriya, or enjoy a 'Life of Pi' moment on a whale-watching boat at sunrise in Mirissa or Trincomalee. (Pssst, there are also turtle nesting spots—you know we love turtles.)
2. Colombia
Instagram post by Paige (@paigey1251) on January 5, 2018.
Why? You might think Netflix sparked interest in Colombia, but there's much more to this colorful, biodiverse country that makes it South America's rising tourist star.
Must-dos:
- Connect with the locals. Some countries become famous for their happy, humble, and welcoming people—Colombia is definitely one. English isn't widely spoken, so polish your Spanish and ask Colombians what they love most about their home. If words fail, a smile or laugh works wonders.
- Add La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) to your bucket list. Colombia's answer to Machu Picchu, but with far fewer tourists, this destination requires a four- or five-day trek through the steamy Sierra Nevada jungle.
- If hiking isn't your thing, the port city of Cartagena will win you over. Think cobblestone streets, colonial history, cocktail bars, rich culture, and color everywhere. Time to put on your culture hat!
- Jungles? Check. Cities? Check. Beaches? Also check. Tayrona National Park is a slice of Caribbean paradise, with amazing marine life, rainforests, and plenty of palm-shaded beaches to relax on, Pina Colada in hand.
3. Western Australia
Instagram post by Western Australia (@westernaustralia) on December 24, 2017.
Why? This is an untouched world away from the well-trodden East Coast of Australia. With an idyllic coastline, vast deserts lit by the mind-blowing Milky Way, and incredible wildlife, Western Australia is a marvel all its own. Go on, be a rebel and explore the less-visited side of Aus.
Must-dos:
- Visit Rottnest Island near Perth to meet the residents—cheerful, curious quokkas. They have sloth, koala, and pug levels of cuddly charm. (Google them now, thank us later!)
- Rent a camper van and tour Western Australia's stunning national parks (Karijini, Kalbarri, and the Pinnacles, to name a few).
- Stop at Ningaloo Reef in Coral Bay, where you can swim with gentle, giant whale sharks and manta rays. Nearby, meet wild dolphins on the shores of Monkey Mia.
- Explore the town of Broome, where you can ride camels across vast tidal flats before blazing off in a cloud of red dust into the beautiful, uncharted Kimberley region.
4. Slovenia
Instagram post by Kate (@katealice_x) on January 5, 2018.
Why?
In recent years, lucky travelers to Europe have been flocking to Croatia's pristine, wave-lapped shores, but this year we predict a trend emerging for Croatia's northern neighbor, Slovenia.
When they said 'hidden gem,' they really meant 'hidden-in-the-most-stunning-picturesque-paradise-in-the-Balkans gem.' This impeccably beautiful country is a gift to the eyes... and the camera.
Must-dos:
- If you visit Slovenia for one reason alone, make it Lake Bled. Nestled in the Julian Alps, this crystal-clear lake houses Bled Island. Hike, swim, and marvel for a few days in one of Europe's most picture-perfect spots.
- Spend 24 hours in the capital, Ljubljana, which boasts cool clubs, riverside bars, and a pretty epic castle.
- Hop over the border to Italy—Venice is just hours away, so it would be rude not to.
- Explore the 15-mile-long Postojna Caves, featuring weird and wonderful rock formations and even a concert hall that can hold 10,000 spectators.
5. Namibia
Why?
Instagram post by Namibia (@beautifulnamibia) on August 9, 2017.
'It's the cirrrrrrcle of liiiiifeeee!' Need we say more? Prepare to step onto the set of 'The Lion King.' This is a land of extremes, ruled by wildlife, where the African desert meets the ocean.
Must-dos:
- Explore the Sossusvlei desert, bordered by giant sand dunes on all sides.
- Climb 'Big Daddy'—the largest dune in the world—then hike along the famous Dune 45. Extra points for those who make it there for sunrise.
- Take a walk on the wild side on the Caprivi Strip. You won't be sipping cocktails or dancing the night away here—it's not that kind of strip—but you'll enjoy a wetland wildlife paradise. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo bathing in the blazing African sun.
- Dare to explore the Skeleton Coast. Dotted with decaying shipwrecks, this vast coastline feels like the end of the Earth.
- Creep, climb, and crawl (camera in hand) through the eerie, surreal sand-filled houses in the abandoned town of Kolmanskop.
6. Georgia
Instagram post by From Georgia with Love (@mamuli.ena.sarwmunoeba) on November 28, 2017.
Why?
Here we are being super alternative. We're not talking about the American state. Sandwiched between Europe and Asia, the country of Georgia is an unknown treasure and a glimpse into Eurasia's humble local life amid the mountains. Visiting a country like this will feed your travel-starved soul with fresh perspectives, rugged landscapes, carpets of yellow and green meadows, and unexplored valleys. And plenty to brag about to less-traveled friends who'll have to Google whether it actually exists!
Must-dos:
- The Caucasus mountains are a travel photographer's dream. Head to the foothills for hiking, skiing, or just chilling.
- Georgian cuisine: rich, comforting, and varied. Traditional Georgian food blends Eastern European staples like beef stew and cheesy khachapuri (pancakes) with Middle Eastern spices. We came, we ate, we loved.
- The capital city Tbilisi is home to the mesmerizing Narikala Fortress and some seriously wild nightlife. Who knew Georgia had clubs to rival Berlin's?
7. Norway
Instagram post by DANIEL JENSEN (@danielsjensen) on January 2, 2018.
Why? Iceland, step aside. You're so 2017 (but we still love you). Norway offers a dazzling mix of history and natural wonder. The old meets the new seamlessly amid surrounding mountains, fjords, and gorges. You could spend weeks exploring here, but seven days will suffice for the best of this Nordic Eden.
Must-dos:
- Iceland may have grown popular for the mysterious glow of the Northern Lights, but you have just as good a chance of seeing them in Norway from September to March. (#topofthebucketlist)
- Head to Bergen, the picturesque southwest city and jumping-off point for Norway's famed fjords. Be sure to climb the most popular of many 'city mountains,' Mount Floyen.
- Cruise the fjords in the Geirangerfjord region, home to unmissable sights like the Seven Sisters waterfall.
- Be careful not to look down as you pose for the ultimate travel'gram 3,600 feet above the fjords atop Trolltunga.
8. Guatemala
Instagram post by Monkey & the lady (@monkeyandthelady) on January 2, 2018.
Why? Guatemala is the beating Mayan heart of Central America. Just over the border, you'll find charming colonial streets, jungles, ruins, culture, history, and some mad volcanoes. When it comes to adventure, this country is bursting at the seams. Are you ready to fall in love? We already did, years ago.
Must-dos:
- Play Indiana Jones among the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, deep in the northern rainforests. Arrive early, wander while it's still empty, and feel like you're discovering it for the first time.
- Chill on the immense Lake Atitlan, surrounded by cute hippie villages, three volcanoes, and the Sierra Madre mountains. This could become your favorite backpacker spot in the Americas.
- Sharpen your salsa moves and feast on delicious street food in the lively markets of Chichicastenango.
9. Cappadocia, Turkey
Instagram post by LAUREN BULLEN (@gypsea_lust) on July 3, 2016.
Why?
Prepare your senses for a fairy-tale dream. This lava-sculpted chimney fortress (yes, you read that right) in central Turkey is one of the most unique landscapes on the planet.
Must-dos:
- Explore one of the dozens of underground cave cities; head straight for Kaymakli.
- If you can't afford to stay in a cave hotel like @Doyoutravel and @Gypsea_lust, at least have a drink or dine atop one for amazing views.
- Take a hot air balloon ride above this moonscape to watch the sun slowly illuminate its wacky shapes and valleys.
- Check out Pasabag, an area famous for its chimney-like formations shooting up from the ground like mushrooms. Inside one, there's a chapel.
10. Taiwan
Instagram post by Charles Hü (@factoryxii) on October 27, 2017.
Why?
While neighboring countries like Japan, the Philippines, and China have long been popular with wanderlusters, the coolest travelers are starting to latch onto Taipei's energetic city vibes and the inviting green landscapes just a short train ride away. If you're planning to swing by Taiwan for a few days, pack your swimsuit, hiking boots, and appetite.
Must-dos:
- Discover sweeping mountain ranges and awesome hiking trails in Taroko Gorge.
- With a capital like Taipei, there's an abundance of history, tradition, and modern architecture to uncover. Take in the views from Taipei 101, then head to night markets or Yongkang Street to feast on some of the best and most varied traditional East Asian fare.
- Taiwan is full of natural hot springs—our favorites are Chingchuan, Guguan, and Beitou. The latter is easily accessible, just a short train ride from central Taipei.
11. Utah
Instagram post by Outbound Living (@outboundliving) on January 3, 2018.
Why?
For starters, you won't need a passport here! Utah is an up-and-coming 'must-do' for Instagrammers, nomads, and adventure lovers. It's a world-class outdoor recreation hub with vast expanses of desert and national parks. Rent some wheels or join a tour and prepare to hit the open road.
Must-dos:
- Who said rocks were boring? Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Monument Valley National Parks offer landscapes to rival their famous cousins in Arizona. Also explore the Dali-esque melted rock formations in Goblin Valley.
- Wasatch Mountain Range offers a top-tier skiing experience on its snow-dusted peaks.
- Kick back and enjoy high-life dining and nightlife in Salt Lake City.
Discover more: USA destination guide
12. Bhutan
Instagram post by (@shimiro_podo) on December 31, 2017.
Why?
The last great Himalayan Kingdom, Bhutan overflows with more mystery than almost anywhere else on Earth. If you're thinking of packing your bags to explore this spiritual land, it costs $250 a day to stay—but that provides an all-inclusive, once-in-a-lifetime trip with your own guide.
Must-dos:
- Get some zen. Be guided through the many traditional towns of this deeply Buddhist country, soaking up genuinely untouched, protected culture and customs. The open-minded people of Bhutan are ready to welcome you with open arms.
- Absorb the majestic fortresses and the famous monastery of Paro Taktsang, beautifully perched on a cliff known as Leaping Tiger Gorge.
Do you have your heart set on a new destination? Maybe you're feeling inspired and want more. Check out our new 2018 destinations hub to satisfy your wanderlust.
This article originally appeared on .
