21 Best Travel Destinations You Must Add to Your Bucket List This Year
As the world unfolds before us, teeming with destinations that promise adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring beauty, the quest for the perfect holiday spot becomes ever more exhilarating. From the tranquil beaches that whisper tales of serenity to the bustling cities alive with culture and history, every corner of the globe offers a unique treasure waiting to be discovered. This guide is your compass for navigating the vast array of holiday destinations that beckon travelers with enchantment and allure.
With an emphasis on the why, the what, and those invaluable insider tips, we aim to equip you with everything you need to know to make your journey unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the mystical allure of ancient ruins, the vibrant rhythms of city life, or the peaceful embrace of nature’s wonders, our curated selection of holiday destinations promises to inspire your next adventure.
Puerto Rico
Why Now: Puerto Rico has resiliently bounced back from natural challenges, emerging as a premier Caribbean destination. No passport? No problem for Americans. This year, Arecibo hosted the prestigious 2024 International Surfing Association’s World Surfing Games, reinvigorating its reputation among surf enthusiasts. Additionally, new direct flights from several U.S. cities make accessing Puerto Rico’s charm more convenient than ever.
What You Need to Know: Surfing aficionados and novices alike will find their haven in San Juan, with Surf with a Pro offering lessons and tours. Alternatively, the island of Vieques beckons with its bioluminescent Mosquito Bay and serene beaches. For land lovers, El Yunque National Forest’s trails offer breathtaking natural beauty. Accommodations range from the luxurious Ritz-Carlton San Juan to the artsy Don Rafa Boutique Hotel, ensuring a memorable stay.
Bonus Tip: Visit La 8 Surf Shop for gear and local surfing tips. Afterwards, indulge in the traditional Puerto Rican dish, mofongo, at La Casita Blanca for an authentic taste of the island’s culinary delights.
Greater Tucson, Arizona
Why Now: With its recent designation as an Urban Night Sky Place and the reopening of Kitt Peak National Observatory, Tucson offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. The city’s trail system has also expanded, inviting hikers to explore new terrains within the Chihuahuan Desert.
What You Need to Know: Tucson’s Chuck Huckelberry Loop and its extensive network of biking and hiking trails cater to all levels of adventurers. Rent a bike to explore urban and natural landscapes alike, or hike the new trails in Texas Canyon Nature Preserve. The area’s running events, particularly the Colossal Vail 50/50, spotlight the region’s scenic beauty and community spirit.
Bonus Tip: For a quieter hike, opt for Tucson Mountain Park’s Hidden Canyon Trail. Locals recommend this three-mile trek for its serene beauty and lesser foot traffic. It offers a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace.
New York State Parks
Why Now: Celebrating its centennial, New York State Parks offers the Centennial Challenge, encouraging visitors to explore its vast network of natural and cultural sites. With activities ranging from hiking to camping, there’s something for everyone in this yearlong celebration.
What You Need to Know: The park system spans diverse landscapes, including the Allegheny Mountains and Camp Hero State Park’s beaches. Minnewaska State Park Preserve, famous for its carriage roads and trails, offers accessible outdoor adventures for all. Nearby accommodations like Wildflower Farms and Inness provide cozy retreats after a day of exploration.
Bonus Tip: For cyclists, the carriage roads at Lake Minnewaska offer breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley. A loop ride on Castle Point or Hamilton Point Carriage Road is a must-do for its scenic vistas and exhilarating terrain.
Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska
Why Now: Denali’s breathtaking landscapes are more accessible than ever, albeit through an unexpected twist. A landslide in 2021 reshaped the journey into the park, curtailing road access but introducing a scenic aerial route that offers a bird’s-eye view of its splendor, including Denali peak itself. This change significantly reduces foot traffic, making 2024 the ideal time to experience the park’s majestic solitude.
What You Need to Know: Venture into Kantishna by air for an exclusive adventure that bypasses the crowds. This unique access point opens up the pristine wilderness for activities like gravel grinding, bear watching, and remote hiking, activities that are usually crowded out by the park’s visitors. Camp Denali, known for its stunning views and exceptional naturalist-guided hikes, now offers an even more secluded and intimate experience of the Alaskan wilderness.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the spirit of adventure by biking into Camp Denali. This less conventional route involves a mix of cycling and trekking past the landslide area, offering an unparalleled sense of achievement and connection to the natural world. This journey promises solitude and serenity, with the rare chance to witness the park’s wildlife up close, without the usual interruptions of tour vans and bustling visitors.