Top 5 Emerging Travel Destinations

Italy, Mexico, Australia, Thailand – these are well-know and much-loved travel destinations that most people either intend to visit or have already ticked off their bucket list. There are a handful of countries that have long been hailed as tourism hotspots. We love them now and we will love them in the future. But, right now, it is time for some other countries to take the limelight.

2018 is the year of the emerging travel destination. Countries that we previously thought were off limits or not interesting enough to be worth visiting are proving that they are just as capable of captivating our hearts and souls as the big-hitters.

The following list is five of the hottest emerging travel destinations at the moment. You might not have ever considered visiting them before but it is never too late to change that. Read on, be inspired, and rethink your next vacation destination.

Rwanda

For a long time Rwanda was synonymous with genocide and, naturally, this put people off wanting to visit. Nowadays, Rwanda has the fastest growing economy in Central Africa and is just finishing off the process of completely reinventing itself. Those who venture to this tiny African nation will be treated to landscapes that defy description. Lush green jungles, teeming with wild gorillas are the main selling point along with the stunning Lake Kivu and buzzing capital, Kigali.

Bhutan

Steeped in mystery, Bhutan remains one of the most untouched nations on earth. This is partly due to its extortionate tourist tax ($250 per person per day) and partly due to the fact that it is forbidden to enter the country without an official guide. However, if your bank balance can stomach the hit, you will be in for one of the most incredible experiences of your life. In Bhutan, ancient monasteries hang from the edges of cliffs and prayer flags speckle the landscape. All the while, the Himalayas loom majestically in the background.

Mongolia

It is a shame how few visitors Mongolia gets, but for those who do visit, it is a blessing. As one of the least densely populated countries on earth, Mongolia is ideal for people who want to escape the hubbub of the cities and immerse themselves in nature. Camping is permitted anywhere in Mongolia, so those looking for adventure need only grab a tent and some supplies and start walking. There is no shortage of natural beauty to be found here.

Montenegro

Europe is pretty well mapped out, but Montenegro seems to have been left in the dark. However, this tiny country towards the East of the continent is finally starting to get the recognition it deserves. Montenegro is a nation of startling natural beauty with verdant forest stretching down to sparkling coastlines. Simply strolling through one of its medieval villages is enough to utterly enchant you.

Bolivia

Often overshadowed by neighbouring Peru and Chile, Bolivia has a lot to offer travellers willing to give it a bit of time. Bolivia’s most popular attraction is its Salar de Uyuni, an immense salt flat located in the Altiplano. But, Bolivia is more than just huge stretches of salt. Sucre, Samaipata, La Paz and Isla del Sol are all definite highlights of this small but diverse country. Whether you want nature or city or something in between, there will be something for you in Bolivia.