Where are the best vacation spots?

Where is my favourite place in the world?

Along with where are the best vacation spots in the world, I get these two questions all the time?  These are the type of questions that are very hard for a seasoned traveller to answer. I’ve been travelling for 20 years and have visited almost 100 countries. I’ve loved them all!

I understand why I get asked it. Ask an expert who’s been all these places and has a lot of different places to compare it to but I really do not have an answer to the question.

I find countries a bit like books. The first thing that attracts you is the cover or a recommendation from someone or a photo you see on Instagram. But then as you read the book you delve a little deeper and find out more about the plot or the history and culture and food of the country.

best vacation spots

But I also find that with countries and book recommendations its all about where you are at personally at that time. If you have been stressed and you’re wanting to unwind I wouldn’t recommend places with sensory overload such as India or the medinas of Morocco. Same with the fact that you’re a bit bored with your everyday life and looking for excitement I wouldn’t recommend going to a lot of the islands.  These are all things I take into account when planning a trip.

What’s the season, what am I up for, what truly speaks to me at the time? Even though I do not like crowds I went to India in the middle of winter with an open mind. I was there to experience it all.  It is one of my favourite countries but also because every area of India is different and it has a lot to offer. Here’s how to choose the perfect holiday destination.

There are also a couple of places I just would not go to right now. Its not because they are dangerous but because I feel they are overexposed. Iceland is one of those places. I swear if I see one more Instagram photo of the Blue Lagoon. Ugh! I went there in 1999 and it was amazing. I connected with so many locals and had a wonderful experience there. I just do not think I could do it with all of the tourists today. I also wonder how the locals feel about it. Of course it is good for the economy but I feel there we have reached a tipping point.  I’ve heard the government may limit the number of tourists which I think is a good idea.

I’m actually at the point where I would rather go to a place that is more off the beaten path. I think my trip to the Central Pacific Islands is an example of that. Nauru is a country that receives less than 200 visitors a year. It’s raw and untouched and absolutely beautiful.

 

I leave next month on a trip around South America. And even though I will be visiting places all over Instagram such as Rio de Janeiro, Machu Picchu, and Buenos Aires, I will also visit places better off the beaten path. When I visit a country I want to see everything has to offer and visit this much of it as possible.  That’s why I am spending six months in South America to explore and I still think that that is not enough time.

So to answer the question here are some of the best vacation spots and why.  This is more of an off the beaten path list of best vacation spots.  Yes, you have heard of these places but I haven’t included places like Paris as everyone has heard of Paris.  So here we go.

Maldives – I love the Maldives, who wouldn’t?  I love the ocean and I think the Maldives has the best underwater playground in the world.  Its stunning.

best vacation spot Maldives

Ethiopia – Ethiopia has something for everyone.  Food, culture, history, wildlife!  I’ve written quite a bit about Ethiopia.  I say go now as this country is just starting to get on the radar.

Tanzania – Between the Serengeti and Ngorongoro safaris there is so much wildlife in Tanzania.  And just when you think you’ve seen enough wildlife you go check out the beaches of Zanzibar.  Seriously stunning.  Don’t forget your binoculars for your safari!

best vacation spots tanzania

Norway – stunning landscapes and beautiful fjords I just loved Norway.  The colours are simply beautiful and the people are amazing as well.

India – as I mentioned has so much to offer.  I’ve been three times and each time is a completely different experience.  Oh and the food.  Amazing.  I loved everything India has to offer.

So where are the best vacation spots?  I’m keeping some of my top destinations to myself!  And of course this list changes as you experience more places and try new things.  Over to you.  What are your favourite destinations right now?

Nicole

Nicole LaBarge is a travel expert who has been traveling internationally for over 25 years and she has visited over 115 countries all while working a 9-5. She has lived in England, Scotland, Japan and New Zealand. Check out her detailed destination guides and travel product guides.

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