Life is too short to travel to the same place as every other tourist. While I love Paris, Rome and New York as much as anyone else, there is no greater pleasure than discovering the more unique travel destinations that are hiding, (mostly undiscovered) around the world.
Those destinations that are perfect for people like you and me, who take extended vacations; those who travel on a budget but still want the full bifters when it comes to experience.
The following places are, in our opinion, some of the most beautiful places on earth.
Hopefully, this guide will give you some fresh ideas for the next time you come to plan your next trip!
And remember! Before you leave for an international trip, make sure you create space in your brain by following our must-do travel checklist.
Taranaki – New Zealand
Taranaki is a region on the West coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is famous for the active but quiescent stratovolcano, Mt Taranaki, that towers proudly over the entire province.
Taranaki is dressed with beautiful black sand beaches that host fabulous surf breaks, meaning that in the winter, you can ski and surf on the same day!
They say that the best time to visit New Zealand is in the summer, but I don’t agree. New Zealand is fabulous in all seasons.
Just remember though, if you are visiting Taranaki in the spring or autumn, don’t forget a light jacket or a good quality rain poncho. New Zealand has many secrets that only the locals know about, and one of those is the fact that New Zealand regularly experiences four seasons in one day.
Mirissa – Sri Lanka
Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers golden sand beaches, fabulous food, stunning wildlife, breathtaking scenery and friendly people.
If that isn’t enough to convince you to make Sri Lanka your next destination, know that it was recently announced that Sri Lanka is offering Free Visas to over 30 countries, including the US. What are you waiting for?
Don’t miss the town of Mirissa which will provide you with a stunning beach, wonderful restaurants and a slow pace of Sri Lankan life.
Udaipur – India
Udaipur, also known as the city of lakes, is an incredibly romantic and unique destination for any traveller willing to look outside of the box.
Nestled beside the serene Lake Pichola, Udaipur offers up a winding maze of streets lined with intriguing shops and cafes.
The people of Udaipur are friendly and hospitable and are proud of their beautiful city with its bustling art scene. Take a romantic boat ride on the lake at sunset and admire the city from the water.
I defy Udaipur not to charm you!
Alleppey – India
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha is a city in the southern Indian state of Kerala which is famed for its backwaters; an intricate network of canals and lagoons that weave inside and around the beautiful surroundings of the region.
Alleppey is quite possibly the greenest, cleanest and friendliest city offering the visitor fabulous beaches and superb restaurants, I promise; if you are looking for a unique destination in India, you will love Alleppey.
Chiang Mai – Thailand
There is so much more to Thailand than beach resorts.
Take the train from Bangkok and head to the misty mountainous region in the North of Thailand.
Here you will find Chiang Mai, a beautiful city, backed majestically by the Doi Pui–Doi Suthep National Park offering bird watching, hiking and waterfall climbing.
Chiang Mai has it all; first-class dining, hundreds of temples and beautiful weather.
