The World

Choosing where to travel depends on a variety of factors including your interests, budget, travel style, and what you want to experience. Below are some recommendations based on different types of attractions and activities.

Highlights

With so many outstanding natural wonders and World Heritage sites spread around the globe, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to touring the planet’s natural, spiritual and historical highlights. Each region has its own merits, and there is something to see wherever you are.

• Great Pyramid: The Great Pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World drawing millions of visitors each year. It is one of a complex of three pyramids Constructed around 2560 BC, the pyramids took more than 20 years to build and were the tallest manmade structures in the world for nearly 4,000 years after their construction.

• Niagara Falls: Bordering the US and Canada, the falls are no longer just a honeymoon spot among newlyweds; Niagara Falls attracts all kinds of visitors, who come to enjoy this wonder from afar or close up on the Maid of Mist.

• Taj Mahal: Visited by more than two million people annually, the white marble Taj Mahal was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. After Shah Jahan’s death, his body was placed in the mausoleum next to his wife’s body.

• Great Wall of China: Spanning more than 4,000 miles, the Great Wall of China was constructed between the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect the Chinese empire against attacks from the north. It took more than one million men to guard the wall during its peak.

• Grand Canyon: A huge gorge cut by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most visited geographical wonders, with amazing views available from both the north and south rims.

• Great Barrier Reef: The globe’s biggest coral atoll, the Great Barrier Reef draws divers and snorkelers from around the world with its colorful marine life.

• Vatican City: The world’s tiniest city-state, the Vatican City has been home to the pope for centuries and is today open to the public for tours around the breathtaking Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica.

• Angkor Wat: Cambodia’s most visited tourist attraction, Angkor Wat is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site and encompasses a huge complex of ancient Khmer temples that feature exquisite workmanship.

Regions

• Africa: Much less daunting to travel in then many people think, in Africa, you’ll find an incredible mix of climates and landscapes. Picture vast savannas teeming with wildlife, the Sahara Desert’s endless sands, the majestic Nile River, and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. You’ll also discover fascinating history, Egyptian monuments and historic slave trade sites. Add in unique cultures, such as the Berbers and the Maasai, colorful markets, lively music festivals and idyllic beaches, Africa has a lot to offer beyond just wildlife safaris.

  • Popular destinations: Egypt • South Africa • Kenya • Tanzania • Morocco • Namibia
  • Natural attractions: Serengeti National Park • Victoria Falls • Mount Kilimanjaro • Okavango Delta
  • Cultural attractions: Pyramids of Giza • Petra • Marrakech • Cape Town • Zanzibar
  • Top Cities: Cape Town • Marrakech • Cairo • Johannesburg • Nairobi • Zanzibar City

• Antarctica: There are no real cities here, tourists mainly venture on cruises for the wildlife including penguins, seals, and whales and to view the vast, ice-covered continent, witnessing towering icebergs, immense glaciers, and untouched snowscapes.

• Asia: From the towering Himalayas to the turquoise shores of the Maldives Asia offers a captivating tapestry landscapes. Delve into the continent’s rich history, discovering iconic landmarks like the Great Wall of China and Angkor Wat. Immerse yourself in mega cities, unique cultures, lively festivals, and world-famous cuisine, as you explore bustling markets and tranquil temples.

  • Popular destinations: China • India • Japan • Thailand • Vietnam • Indonesia
  • Natural attractions: Great Wall of China • Halong Bay • Mount Everest • Bali
  • Cultural attractions: Taj Mahal • Angkor Wat • Kyoto • Jaipur • Beijing
  • Top Cities: Tokyo • Bangkok • Hong Kong • Singapore • Seoul • Taipei • Beijing

• Europe: Europe presents a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Traverse the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, stroll through quaint cobblestone streets, take river cruises past endless castles, and unwind on the sun-kissed Mediterranean shores. Unearth the continent’s rich past, visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum. Wander through bustling cities and charming villages. With enchanting landscapes, vibrant arts scenes, and stunning architectural wonders, Europe is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.

  • Popular destinations: France • Italy • Spain • Germany • United Kingdom • Greece
  • Natural attractions: Swiss Alps • Norwegian Fjords • Plitvice Lakes
  • Cultural attractions: Eiffel Tower • Colosseum • Acropolis • Louvre • Sagrada Familia
  • Top Cities: Paris • Rome • Barcelona • London • Amsterdam • Prague • Vienna

• North America: North America is a land of striking contrasts, where you can wander through culture-rich cities cities, hike in pristine national parks, and unwind on sun-drenched beaches. Home to iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Chichen Itza. Explore bustling metropolises and quaint small towns. From the majestic Rocky Mountains and the vast Grand Canyon to the bustling streets of New York City, the vibrant culture of New Orleans and the over-the-top Las Vegas, North America offers a wealth of unforgettable adventures.

  • Popular destinations: United States • Canada • Mexico
  • Natural attractions: Grand Canyon • Yellowstone National Park • Niagara Falls • Banff National Park
  • Cultural attractions: New York City • Los Angeles • Washington D.C. • Toronto • Mexico City
  • Top Cities: New York City • Los Angeles • Cancun • Vancouver • Toronto • Miami • Chicago

• Oceania: Tropical islands, polynesian culture, Kangaroos! Oceania beckons with its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and fascinating history. Discover pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef. Combining European, Polynesian and Aboriginal heritage as well as wildlife found nowhere else, Oceania offers truly unique experiences.

  • Popular destinations: Australia • New Zealand • Fiji • French Polynesia
  • Natural attractions: Great Barrier Reef • Uluru • Milford Sound • Bora Bora
  • Cultural attractions: Sydney Opera House • Melbourne • Auckland • Queenstown
  • Top Cities: Sydney • Melbourne • Auckland • Brisbane • Queenstown • Cairns • Perth

• South America: From the majestic Andes Mountains, the lush Amazon rainforest to the sun-kissed beaches of Brazil, South America offers stunning natural beauty. The continent has a rich culture and history spanning iconic landmarks like Machu Picchu and the mysterious Easter Island statues, to salsa dancing and Patagonian cowboys. Adventurers can journey through vibrant cities like Buenos Aires and colorful Andean villages.

  • Popular destinations: Brazil • Argentina • Peru • Chile • Colombia
  • Natural attractions: Amazon Rainforest • Iguazu Falls • Galápagos Islands • Patagonia
  • Cultural attractions: Machu Picchu • Rio de Janeiro • Buenos Aires • Santiago • Cartagena
  • Top Cities: Rio de Janeiro • Buenos Aires • Cusco • Lima • Cartagena • Santiago • Salvador

Top Cities

Top Cities: Hong Kong • Bangkok • London • Singapore • Macau • Dubai • Paris • New York City • Shenzhen • Kuala Lumpur • Phuket • Rome • Tokyo

Islands & Beaches

The Philippine beach resort of Boracay regularly tops lists of the world’s best beaches, but there are plenty of lesser known beach paradises waiting to be discovered. While a trip to the idyllic Maldives will likely leave a dent in your pocket, the US beaches of Florida and California won’t.

European beach spots such as St Tropez and Ibiza are the perfect place to party, with those in search of quieter shorelines better off heading for Australia’s Fraser Island, where wild dingoes may be the only company.

• Boracay, Philippines The highly rated Boracay draws beach lovers with its renowned White and Bulabog beaches, where water sports, world-class resorts and beachside cocktail bars are aplenty. White Beach alone is two-and-a-half miles long.

• Maldives Offering crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, tropical weather and diving to rival that found in Thailand and Mexico, the Maldives offer an exclusive beach and island experience, and a number of luxury resorts.

• Miami Beach, US This pre-eminent beach resort has a huge Latin population that keeps the beach vibe lively. While the beaches here are great, it’s the nightlife that is one of the main draws, with hip nightclubs and sophisticated bars providing after-dark entertainment.

• Ko Samui, Thailand One of Thailand’s favorite islands, Koh Samui draws visitors with its huge, sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Away from the busy Chaweng resort is the quieter beach of Lamai, a popular choice for those who can do without the discos.

• Ibiza, Spain Known as the clubbing center of the universe, Ibiza not only boasts the world’s biggest and best nightclubs, but it is also host to pretty beaches, traditional villages and a number of historical sites.

• Fraser Island, Australia The largest sand island in the world offers adventurous travelers the chance to four-wheel drive across deserted beaches, through rainforest and past stunning freshwater lakes that are spotlessly clean. The island is also home to dingoes and other native wildlife.

• St Tropez, France This is the place to head if you want glitz and glamour, or simply to rub shoulders with stars. Prices don’t come cheap at this exclusive beach, but its fine dining, yacht-filled harbor and stylish accommodation make it worth the expense.

• Tulum beach, Mexico While Mexico boasts a number of world-class beaches, Tulum is the only one that can claim having amazing Mayan ruins as well as a beautiful stretch of sand. A dip in the Caribbean waters here won’t leave you disappointed.

• Santa Monica beach - California, US An eclectic beach resort with some of America’s most wanted real estate, Santa Monica continues to draw crowds with its beach and surf, art galleries and entertainment, pier and affluent lifestyle.

• Salamumu beach, Samoa A haven for snorkelers and divers alike, Samoa’s Salamumu beach features waters that team with colorful fish and a beach that is ideal for lazing in the sun and sipping at cocktails.

• Hawaii, USA Offers a combination of beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich Polynesian culture.

More: Top Islands & Beaches Around the World

National Parks

Africa’s outstanding national parks and nature reserves rank as the world’s best, with Kruger National Park frequently labeled as the globe’s number one wildlife reserve. There are few better places to enjoy the ‘big five’ than Kruger, with the park easily explored by hire car.

The biodiversity of the Amazon Basin, however, outshines Africa’s best national parks, with thousands of species protected at the Central Amazon Conservation Complex. For an altogether different national park experience, head for Australia’s Uluru or Kakadu national parks, where aboriginal culture can be observed and bushwalks taken.

• Kruger National Park, South Africa Easily accessed from Johannesburg, Kruger National Park ranks as one of the world’s finest parks, with its superb wildlife, guest lodges and scenery. As one of the best places on Earth to see the ‘big five’, Kruger offers visitors the chance to get up close to leopards, rhinos, lions, elephants and hippos. Touring the park by private hire car is the best way to see the sights.

• Chobe National Park, Botswana Spanning four diverse eco-systems in the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta, Botswana’s Chobe offers safaris through the Kalahari Desert and other areas. A more affordable option than some of Africa’s other parks, the Chobe features no fewer animals or birds.

• Uluru National Park, Australia Of sacred significant to the aborigines, Uluru National Park is home to Uluru, the largest monolith on Earth. Also known as Ayers Rock, Uluru is the focus point of the park, but bushwalking and wildlife spotting are also highlights.

• Central Amazon Conservation Complex The remarkable Amazon Basin stretches for more than six million hectares, with the Central Amazon Conservation Complex being just a small, protected part of this area. The unique animal and plant species that reside here make it the most bio-diverse area in the world.

• Iguazú National Park, Argentina Argentina’s Iguazú National Park is home to the world-famous Iguazú Falls, one of the country’s most beautiful sights. Featuring sub-tropical jungle and a number of endangered species such as anteaters and jaguars, this park should not be missed.

• Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia Resting on peninsular Malaysia’s east coast, Taman Negara means ‘national park’ in Malay and is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Walk through rainforest, spot wild animals, float along winding waterways and enjoy scenic views at this popular Asian nature spot.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Tennessee, US The most visited national park in the US is scheduled to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2009 and draws visitors with its well-preserved pioneer log cabins, scenic Appalachian train journey and picturesque views.

• Kanha National Park, India A popular choice among tourists wanting to catch sight of tigers and leopards in the wild, Kanha is often labeled as Asia’s best national park. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary, the park is home to birds, hyena, buffalo and the rare swamp deer in addition to the main attraction, the big cats.

• Swiss National Park, Switzerland In contrast to the national parks of Africa, Asia and South America, the Swiss National Park offers a pleasantly cool alpine climate. The park is equipped with a number of scenic trails that allow tourists to access the local wildlife.

• Banff National Park - Alberta, Canada This pretty year-round park is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts in the winter season and a playground for campers and hikers in summer. Ranking as Canada’s oldest and most visited national park, Banff is an unspoiled natural paradise.

More: Top National Parks Around the World

World Heritage

The world is bursting with sites of natural and cultural importance, with most countries being home to several designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. Among the globe’s most visited and best loved heritage sites are China’s enormous Great Wall, which can be visited from Beijing, and Cambodia’s vast temple complex of Angkor. The sheer size of these protected sites is enough to impress, but it is their historical significance that is perhaps the most outstanding aspect of them.

Other favorites include remarkable national parks like New Zealand’s Mount Cook, impressive monuments like India’s Taj Mahal, old cities like Austria’s Salzburg and ancient necropolises like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

• Taj Mahal – Agra, India Regularly labeled as the world’s most iconic structure, the Taj Mahal was famously constructed by Shah Jahan for his wife after she died in labor with their 14th child. This Mughal era mausoleum is surrounded by picturesque grounds with reflecting pools, and visiting it is a magical experience.

• Pyramids of Giza, Egypt The last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the three pyramids that make up the Pyramids of Giza are an ancient necropolis containing the tombs of many high officials. Adjacent to the pyramids is the Great Sphinx, the world’s largest monolith statue.

• Great Wall of China, China Visible from space, the Great Wall spans a massive 4,000 miles and was built between the 6th century BC and the 16th century. Initially constructed to protect against Xiongnu attacks from the north, the wall was added to and maintained over the next 2,000 years, with one million-plus soldiers posted along the wall in its peak.

• Angkor Wat, Cambodia Stretching over 60 square miles, the vast Angkor site is home to a complex of Khmer temples, with Angkor Wat as its centerpiece. Ornately decorated, the complex was constructed between the 9th and the 15th centuries, at the height of the Khmer Empire. Visitors can explore the site and its moats and gardens on foot.

• Terracotta Army, China Only some of the thousands of individually sculpted warriors, horses, chariots, acrobats, musicians and strongmen have been excavated, with large sections of the terracotta army remaining underground. Dating to 210 BC, the army was made for the First Qin Emperor and only discovered in 1974 by local farmers.

• Grand Canyon - Arizona, US This expansive gorge took two billion years to form, with the Colorado River having cut through the rock to create the breathtaking geological formations visible today. Pictures don’t do the canyon - which is equal in size to the state of Delaware - justice.

• Salzburg, Austria Housing some of the world’s best examples of baroque architecture, the old town of Salzburg has been designated as a World Heritage site for its well-preserved center. As the birthplace of Mozart, the city has numerous sites of interest and has a stunning alpine backdrop.

• Statue of Liberty - New York City, US The iconic Statue of Liberty has been greeting visitors to New York harbor since 1886, when the statue was presented to the US as a gift from France. The statue’s pedestal levels can be visited, but public access to the upper levels is no longer permitted.

• Dubrovnik, Croatia This historical Croatian old city is a premier visitor attraction for its heritage and cultural sites. Also known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik sports remarkable gothic, renaissance and baroque churches as well as numerous palaces, monasteries and fountains of historical interest.

• Te Wahipounamu, New Zealand New Zealand’s South Island is home to the Southern Alps mountain range, of which Mount Cook is the highest peak (3,754m). Located at the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site are four of New Zealand’s national parks, including Mount Cook. The Maori name of Mount Cook translates as ‘cloud piercer’, and the mountain provides endless possibilities for winter sports and summer hiking.

More: Top World Heritage Sites

Travel preferences can vary greatly depending on individual tastes, but here’s a general guide for the best times to visit different regions of the world, taking into account weather, tourist crowds, and local events:

By Region

North America

• Northeast USA & Canada: Late spring (May-June) for mild weather and fall (September-October) for stunning foliage.
• Southeast USA: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) to avoid extreme heat and humidity.
• West Coast USA & Canada: Summer (June-August) for the best weather, though early fall can also be pleasant and less crowded.

Europe

• Northern Europe (Scandinavia, UK): Summer (June-August) for the warmest weather and long daylight hours.
• Central Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland): Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Greece): Late spring (May) and early fall (September-October) to avoid the extreme heat and crowds of summer.

Asia

• East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea): Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and fall (October-November) for autumn colors.
• Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia): Avoid the rainy season; generally, the best months are November to February when it’s cooler and dry.
• South Asia (India, Sri Lanka): Winter (November-February) to escape the heat and monsoon seasons.

Africa

• North Africa (Morocco, Egypt): Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) to avoid high summer temperatures.
• Sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya, South Africa): Dry seasons, typically June to October for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources.

Australia & Oceania

• Australia: Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) generally offer pleasant temperatures across most regions.
• New Zealand: Summer (December-February) for warm weather and outdoor activities, though shoulder seasons (March-April, October-November) are also good with fewer tourists.

South America

• Northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela): Avoid rainy seasons; typically, December to March are the best months.
• Southern South America (Argentina, Chile): Summer (December-February) is ideal, especially for visiting Patagonia.
• Andean regions (Peru, Bolivia): Dry season, May to October, is best for hiking and outdoor activities.

Festivals & Events

In India, the explosion of colors during Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, while Diwali lights up the skies with fireworks to mark the victory of light over darkness. Brazil’s Rio Carnival parades its samba rhythms and elaborate costumes, embodying the zest of Brazilian culture. Over in Spain, the fiery passion of the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona offers an adrenaline-pumping experience steeped in tradition.

Moving to Asia, China’s Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, unites families in a nationwide celebration filled with fireworks and dragon dances. Similarly, Japan’s Cherry Blossom Festival (Hanami) provides a serene and beautiful reflection on the transient nature of life as people gather under blooming sakura trees.

In Europe, Germany’s Oktoberfest invites the world to partake in its famed beer culture, while Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival turns the city into a stage for performing arts from across the globe.

More: Top World Festivals & Events

World travel offers an array of top experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. Below, we’ve curated a list of some of the most extraordinary travel experiences from across the globe, to hopefully inspire your next great adventure.

Cultural Experiences

• Exploring the Temples of Bagan: (Myanmar) See thousands of ancient temples spread across the plains of Bagan.
• Visiting the Pyramids of Giza: (Egypt) Explore the ancient wonders of the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.
• Walking the Camino de Santiago: (Spain) Undertake the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
• Touring the Ancient City of Petra: (Jordan) Discover the rock-cut architecture of the “Rose City.”
• Attending a Traditional Tea Ceremony: (Japan) Experience the cultural and spiritual ritual of Japanese tea.

Natural Experiences

• Gorilla Trekking: (Rwanda / Uganda) Get up close with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Chasing the Northern Lights: (Norway / Iceland) Witness the spectacular aurora borealis in the Arctic Circle.
• Hiking to Machu Picchu: (Peru) Trek through the Andes to the ancient Incan city.
• Exploring the Galápagos Islands: (Ecuador) Observe unique wildlife and pristine landscapes.
• Diving the Great Barrier Reef: (Australia) Explore the world’s largest coral reef system.

Urban Experiences

• Exploring New York City: (New York City) Visit iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
• Touring Paris: (Paris) Enjoy the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Experiencing Tokyo: (Tokyo) Dive into the bustling streets, high-tech districts, and historic temples.
• Wandering through Rome: (Rome) Explore ancient ruins, the Vatican, and world-renowned cuisine.
• Discovering Dubai: (Dubai) Visit the Burj Khalifa, luxury malls, and vibrant markets.

Unique Experiences

• Balloon Safari over the Serengeti: (Tanzania) Experience breathtaking aerial views of the wildlife and landscape.
• Swimming in Devil’s Pool: (Victoria Falls) Swim at the edge of one of the world’s largest waterfalls.
• Riding the Trans-Siberian Railway: (Russia) Journey across the vast landscapes from Moscow to Vladivostok.
• Diving the Great Barrier Reef: (Australia) Experience the thrill of one of the world’s natural wonders.
• Visiting the Salt Flats of Uyuni: (Bolivia) Walk on the world’s largest salt flat and see its surreal mirror effect during the rainy season.
• Staying in a Capsule Hotel: (Japan) Experience the unique and efficient lodging of a Japanese capsule hotel.
• Sandboarding in Huacachina: (Peru) Surf down the massive sand dunes in this desert oasis.
• Camping in Wadi Rum: (Jordan) Stay in a Bedouin camp and explore the stunning desert landscapes.

Special Interest