As the new year approaches, so does the planning for major vacations. If you’re looking forward to an international vacation but aren’t sure where to, read on. From pristine beaches to historical monuments, these destinations are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. So check your tickets, plan your itineraries, and get ready to travel across the world this coming year.
Here are the 8 most exciting international travel picks for 2024
1. Italy
One of the best tourist destinations in the world, Italy ticks every box for an international destination to explore in 2024. May that be the beautiful Amalfi coastline, architecture in Milan and Rome, food all across the country and especially in Napoli, the magnificent
mountains in the north of the country, and famed lakes like Lake Como, we could go on and on about the tourist attractions in Italy.
Best time to visit: March to May, and September to November when the crowds are less and the weather is pleasant.
2. Maldives
Don’t be fooled by how Maldives is portrayed as a luxury beach resort destination. While that part of Maldives is more famous, and understandably so, the country offers so much more to experience as one of the best vacation spots in the world. You can experience a wide variety of water sports like waterboarding, snorkelling, or scuba diving to witness whale sharks. At the same time, if history and culture excite you, sign up for a walking tour in the capital Male to better understand the country. You can also go island hopping and sample local cuisine, and even experience bioluminescence at some of the
beaches.
Best time to visit: November to April when the weather is perfect.
3. South Korea
As the Hallyu wave takes over, no wonder South Korea is on the list of the best tourist destinations in the world. Whether you’re a K-Pop or K-Drama fan, or just somebody enamoured by the beautiful country, visiting South Korea is always a good idea. Whether you stick to major cities like Seoul or Busan, or you visit Jeju Island to relax, the country will delight you with its amazing cuisine, hospitality, and tourist attractions. Easily one of the most beautiful places in the world, South Korea will be an experience to remember.
Best time to visit: April to June, and September to November when the weather is sunny and pleasant.
4. New Zealand
Hands down one of the most beautiful places in the world that you can visit, New Zealand will stun you with just how picturesque it is. No matter where you look, the scenery is postcard-worthy. Soak in the beautiful landscapes in Queenstown, experience Milford Sound on a ferry, and visit the thermal wonderland at Waiotapu. If history intrigues you, you can also visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and Museum Of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa which also happens to be their national museum. And if you’re a Lord Of The Rings fan, you’re in for a treat. Experience the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours which let you explore the location used in the movie trilogy.
Best time to visit: December to March, when it's summer in New Zealand as it is in the Southern Hemisphere.
5. Spain
Culturally vibrant, and home to some of the most beautiful places in the world, Spain should be high up on your list of international destinations to visit in 2024. Whether you are exploring Basilica de la Sagrada Familia and other gothic structures in Barcelona, the Royal Palace and Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid, Royal Alcázar of Seville, or experience the vibrant food culture in the country, Spain will at every next destination remind you why it is one of the best vacation spots in the world. If it appeals to you, you could also go driving across the country like the characters did in the Bollywood movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Bollywood often serves much-needed filmy international travel inspiration like Spain.
Best time to visit: April to May, and September to October when the weather is pleasant and crowds less.
6. Greece
Another European country on the list, Greece is sure to make it to your list of best vacation spots in the world if you’re looking for an experience doused in culture and heritage. While the stunning islands of Mykonos and Santorini are well known, many others in the country offer just as stunning views, minus the tourist traps. The country is also home to a variety of structures like the Acropolis of Athens, several temples dedicated to Greek Gods, and archaeological museums that showcase the rich history and heritage. While underrated, exploring local food is also something we absolutely recommend when in Greece. Do try Ntomatokeftedes which is a type of tomato fritters made only with Santorini’s famed cherry tomatoes and if the cuisine interests you, you can always sign up for a quick cooking class.
Best time to visit: April to May, and September to October when the weather is pleasant and crowds less.
7. Tanzania
Well known to be a paradise for wildlife lovers, Tanzania is also one of the most beautiful places in the world. Perfect for an adventurous holiday, Tanzania not only boasts of multiple national parks but also activities like scuba diving in Zanzibar with the dolphins. The country in East Africa is also home to Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and if you’re not an expert mountaineer, worry not, Tanzania also has beginner-friendly hikes that offer stunning views. You can also experience natural wonders like Lake Natron, and shifting sand dunes in Tanzania, and should anthropology interest you, don’t forget to visit Laetoli Footprints which happen to be human ancestors’ 3.6 million-year-old footprints.
Best time to visit: July to September as it is the dry season, and best to witness the Great Migration and safaris in general.
8. Jordan
While most well known for the famed archaeological site of Petra, Jordan is an underrated wonderland. Not only in broad daylight, Petra demands to be experienced at night, lit up by thousands of candles, making it one of the most beautiful places in the world you’ll ever witness. The country also offers you experiences like floating in the Dead Sea, and mud baths that are sure to rejuvenate you. Once in the capital city, you can go visit the Royal Automobile Museum which houses the rare and massive collection of automobiles owned by the Kings of Jordan. Jordan is also home to Roman ruins, and in fact, Jerash, which happens to be just a day trip from Amman is the best-preserved ancient Roman city outside of Italy.
Best time to visit: March to May, and September to November when the crowds are less and the weather is pleasant.