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Countries that welcome americans with open arms.

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Americans should look to underrated European travel destinations like Albania to beat the crowds ... [+] this summer.

Summer 2023 has been the season of international travel for Americans, who have touched down in Europe and the Pacific in record numbers.

American arrivals in Europe are expected to surpass last year’s numbers by 55%, and the season isn’t over yet. The top places U.S. travelers are visiting are London, Paris, Rome, and Dublin, according to travel booking app Hopper.

American, Delta, and United reported double- and triple-digit increases in passenger revenue and passenger miles traveled on trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific routes in the first and second quarters of this year.

Americans Are Hungry For International Travel

This surge in demand for international travel is likely explained by three years of lockdowns and being forced to stay close to home during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It’s reflected by the record-breaking numbers of passport applications at the U.S. Department of State, which received 500,000 per week in July.

Not everyone will be lucky enough to get away this year. The State Department is struggling with a passport application backlog because of pandemic-related staff shortages.

The agency won’t get back to its normal processing time for routine passport applications (six to eight weeks) before the end of this year. It’s currently quoting 10 to 13 weeks for applications starting on or after March 24, 2023.

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For those without a U.S. passport in hand, you still have a few options for getting away. Americans can visit Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without one.

For those looking to travel internationally, where should you be heading?

Europe’s Hotspots May Not Be Worth It

If your heart is set on Europe, be prepared to pay for it. Hopper reports the average ticket to the continent costs $1,200, a 23% increase since summer 2019.

You should also be prepared for crowds. Europe’s hotspots are overrun, and many of its most iconic locations have imposed bans, fines, and taxes to discourage more people from visiting.

Rome has restricted access to the Trevi Fountain. Athens implemented a time-slot system for the Acropolis, where tourists reportedly have to wait for more than two hours to see the monument.

Amsterdam has launched a "Stay Away” campaign to crack down on crowds. “To keep our city livable, we now opt for limitations instead of irresponsible growth," says Deputy Mayor Sofyan Mbarki.

My advice is to skip the hotspots, especially ones that seem to be trying to discourage crowds, and head to the places that actually want you there.

The good news is there are unique and desirable destinations all over the world that embrace visitors, particularly American ones, with open arms.

How Do Other Countries Perceive Americans?

Gone are the days when American travelers felt the need to put Canadian flags on their travel bags to avoid unpleasant interactions while abroad.

I hear from American retirees on both sides of the political spectrum every day, and their outlook on the current state of affairs in the U.S. is generally negative. Despite this, much of the rest of the world has a positive opinion of the nation. A Pew Research Center study shows that a median of 59% of the 23 nations surveyed held a favorable view of the U.S.

Many countries, including a few you might not expect, welcome American tourists, who can be seen as friendly, outgoing, wealthy, and generous tippers—even when they don’t have to be.

Of course, there are also negative stereotypes associated with Americans. But this article focuses on countries where Americans are embraced, determined by their populations’ perceptions of the United States, their governments’ policies toward American tourists, and any heritage ties between them and the U.S. population.

The Most Welcoming Countries For Americans

The two most pro-American countries in the world are Poland and Israel, with 93% and 87% of survey participants holding favorable views of the U.S., respectively, according to Pew. These are the highest percentages recorded for those countries since the survey was started.

South Korea follows Poland and Israel in Pew’s survey, with a 79% favorable view of the U.S., followed by Japan (73%), Nigeria (74%), Kenya (71%), India (65%), Brazil (63%), and Mexico (63%).

Any of these places would be fantastic travel choices. It makes sense that their positive views of the U.S. would translate into a welcoming environment for American tourists.

Another way to determine where American tourists are welcome is by looking at their tourist visa policies.

The majority of the world’s nations allow tourists to visit for one to three months at a time. Albania, Georgia, and Palau are exceptions, allowing Americans to visit for an entire year at a time.

While not mainstream travel choices, these generous tourist allowances give you a chance to fully immerse yourself in these countries.

Countries that have strong heritage ties to the United States also tend to be more welcoming toward American tourists.

Two of the biggest ancestry groups in the United States are Irish Americans, who number 33.5 million, and Italian Americans, who number 17.3 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey.

Ireland received 7 million visitors in 2022, and 1.5 million of those people were from North America. Ireland is just as eager to receive U.S. tourists as Americans are to visit the country.

While Dublin is the focus of travel itineraries, a recent spike in crime in the capital city means Ireland’s small towns and villages, where the true Irish spirit still dominates, are better choices.

The United States and Italy also have strong kinship ties, and Americans make up the second-biggest slice of Italy’s tourism arrivals. It received more than 6 million U.S. tourists in 2019.

While its most famous destinations are currently overrun, there are still places in Italy where you can enjoy the local hospitality without the crowds. Some of its most underrated regions include Umbria, Abruzzo, and Emilia-Romagna.

In both countries, Americans with the relevant heritage can pursue citizenship.

You can become a citizen of Ireland if one of your grandparents was born in Ireland or if one of your parents was an Irish citizen when you were born. In Italy, you can pursue citizenship if you can prove it was transmitted from your Italian-born ancestor to you.

Kathleen Peddicord

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13 Most Tourist-Friendly Places Around The World Where You Don’t Have To Worry About Being A Stranger

Everybody is made to feel welcome at these top tourist-friendly destinations around the world, regardless of where they come from.

Read update

The Most Tourist-Friendly Places On Earth: More Smiles Ahead

  • Hospitality and tourist-friendliness are key factors to consider when choosing a travel destination. South Korea, Japan, and Greece are among the most tourist-friendly countries in the world.
  • South Korea is known for its charm and hospitality, with cities like Seoul and Busan worth visiting. Japan offers a blend of cultures and polite residents, while Greece's culture of hospitality to strangers dates back to ancient times.
  • Thailand, Spain, the United States, Australia, Italy, Portugal, the Philippines, Canada, New Zealand, and Iceland are also known for their tourist-friendly atmospheres, welcoming people, and diverse attractions.

Hospitality and tourist-friendliness are some of the most important things to consider before visiting a place. These factors often determine whether one will have an enjoyable experience or a regrettable one. From pedestrian-friendly cities to those who open their arms to LGBTQ+ travelers , the world is much kinder than we're made to believe.

Many destinations around the world become less appealing by not having these qualities. Some, however, have them, and it helps to know that one will not have to worry about being a stranger when visiting the best tourist-friendly destinations around the world. Out of them all, these are perhaps the most tourist-friendly countries in the world to visit as a foreigner. Pack a bag and get those tickets booked ASAP!

UPDATE: 2023/11/17 18:22 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with two new friendly countries, both in Asia, as well as expanded attractions to see in each respective place. From the East to the West, and everywhere in between, there is more happiness and kind people to meet this year!

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13 south korea.

South Korea is one of the friendlier countries/places for tourists to visit. Known for its charm and hospitality, South Korea is the birthplace of K-Pop Korean BBQ and hosts plenty of cities worth booking a hotel in. Per a Pew Research study, nearly 85% of South Koreans have a positive view of Americans and the West, making this a safe choice for travel. Although some countries may not be as welcoming to foreigners, this is not the case in South Korea. Notable cities include Seoul, Incheon, Ulsan, Busan, Gwanju, and so on.

  • Top attractions in South Korea : Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, National Museum of Korea, Bukchon Hanok Village, Bulguksa, Lotte World, War Memorial of Korea

Japan is yet another super-friendly Asian country for tourists, following years of smiling faces and blended cultures being allowed in its neighborhoods. With massive tourist hubs like Tokyo, Sapporo, Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kobe, etc. Being polite is another major part of Japanese culture, with respect between all age groups and genders, making the country even better for a wide range of visitors. Even for those who don't speak Japanese, Japan's residents are often said to be helpful to foreigners and will help them as much as possible.

  • Top attractions in Japan : Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji, Osaka Castle

These are a few unique things you can only see and do in Japan .

The culture of hospitality to strangers is ingrained into Greek culture, which is why strangers are often treated with so much respect and care. This culture dates back to ancient times, and Greeks stay true to this as they believe the stranger could be a god in disguise looking to test them.

In addition, Greece is one of the most touristy destinations in the world, and there’s always somebody from every part of the world there, so one will never feel alone or like a total stranger.

  • Top attractions in Greece: Acropolis of Athens, Delphi, Parthenon, Meteora Mountains

10 Must-Try Bucket List Experiences In Greece In 2023

10 thailand.

Millions of people visit Thailand every year , so the country's residents have seen enough tourists that they have become used to them. At any time, tourists are scattered all over the country, so no single tourist is ever alone.

This makes it feel kind of safe here, and the locals often look for ways to please visitors however they can. Thai people are also famous for being very friendly and hospitable. After all, Thailand isn't nicknamed "The Land of Smiles" for nothing.

  • Top attractions in Thailand: The Grand Palace, Railay Beach, Ayutthaya, Tonsai Beach

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world , and that's not just because of its numerous historic and natural attractions and the many vibrant Spanish cities worth visiting . The country is also popular among travelers because of its warm and friendly atmosphere.

While English is not commonly spoken in some places, the people always do their best to make tourists feel welcome and comfortable. Also, many expatriates live and work in this country, so one can easily blend into the population.

  • Top attractions in Spain: La Sagrada Família, Guggenheim Museum, Plaxa Manor

8 The United States

The US welcomes everybody with open arms regardless of which part of the world they come from. It is one of the most diverse countries in the world, where people from every culture on the planet can be found.

Whether from Europe, Africa, Asia, India, Polynesia, Latin America, or Australia, everybody is welcome in the US. The country is also tourist-friendly, so one does not have to worry about being a stranger here.

  • Top attractions in the US: Grand Canyon, Central Park, Hollywood, Yosemite National Park

7 Australia

The population of Australia is diverse, and the people are welcoming, so tourists will not feel like they're on their toes while visiting. Australians are generally happy and easy-going people, and they have a good sense of humor that benefits everybody.

The only challenge visitors might have in Australia is understanding the accent, but knowledge of popular Aussie slang terms and words will help them get along well. The slang is not really such a huge problem anyway.

  • Top attractions in Australia: Sydney Opera House, Great Ocean Road, Fraser Island, Kakadu National Park

People in Italy have been used to foreigners for a long time; they welcome everybody with open arms. Italians are also kind and hospitable and will usually go to extra lengths to help visitors.

Whether visiting on vacation or looking to live in Italy, one will not have to worry about being a stranger in this country.

  • Top attractions in Italy: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Uffizi Gallery Museum

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Portugal is a very beautiful, peaceful, and welcoming country. Tourists who visit will agree to the fact that the people are super friendly and always looking to help or start up a conversation. While tourists without knowledge of Portuguese might find it difficult to navigate or get things done in some places, there's usually always an English-speaking person around who's willing to help out.

Those who are fortunate enough to learn even just a little bit of Portuguese can even be adopted into a family before their vacation is over.

  • Top attractions in Portugal: Torre de Belem, Geres Mountain Range, Castle of Guimaraes

4 The Philippines

The Philippines is one of the friendliest countries in the world. The locals are very helpful to everybody, especially tourists, and their smile is warm and contagious. Tourists who are lucky enough can even get shelter and a bowl of rice decorated with eggs, tomatoes, and beef tapa from local people.

There's so much to say about Filipino hospitality - it could fill up a book. It doesn't matter who one is or where one is coming from; the Philippines welcomes everybody.

  • Top attractions in the Philippines: Mayon Volcano, Chocolate Hills, Batad Rice Terraces

Canada is a large and culturally diverse country filled with friendly people, from the streets to the customs office. Whether purchasing something from a shop or asking for directions, visitors to Canada will feel the warmth of Canadians at every turn.

A recent study even placed Canada at the top of a list of the most accepting countries for migrants. This is a reassuring revelation and one that will surely make visitors to the country feel more comfortable.

  • Top attractions in Canada: Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, CN Tower

2 New Zealand

New Zealand, like many other Polynesian countries in the world , is a place of warmth and hospitality. Here, it's not difficult to blend into the community, as New Zealanders are generally considered to be friendly and down to earth.

Perhaps the abundant natural wonders in New Zealand have something to do with this? It's not totally certain, but it sure is one more thing visitors will enjoy in addition to the welcoming atmosphere in this beautiful country.

  • Top attractions in New Zealand: Hobbiton Movie Set, Fiordland National Park, Abel Tasman National Park

Iceland has long remained at the top of the list of the tourist-friendliest countries in the world. The people here are open-minded and kind, and there's a strong sense of community. Icelandic people are also considered some of the happiest people in the world, and Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world with low crime rates.

These positive features all combine to make visitors feel welcome and safe enough to enjoy all that Iceland has to offer .

  • Top attractions in Iceland: Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon , Golden Circle, Diamond Circle, Hallgrimskirkjs Church
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Dos and don'ts for tourists in Japan

From local manners to social etiquette and cultural sensitivity, this guide will help you become a model traveller in Tokyo and Japan

Japan is a friendly and welcoming country, steep in history and tradition. While visitors are often amazed at how polite, courteous and gracious the society is, most first-timers may experience some sort of culture shock. Especially since there are many unspoken rules on what to do and how to behave in public, which are unique to this country.

From the culture of queueing up and train etiquette to handshakes and blowing your nose in public (yes, it's frowned upon), we have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you avoid any faux pas while travelling in the country. Here's to enjoying the best of Japan like a local.

How to say hello like a Tokyoite

How to say hello like a Tokyoite

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Greeting people in Japan is so much more than just saying ‘konnichiwa’ and can be fraught with complications. Here's how to use different greetings in a variety of potentially awkward social situations

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Bidding someone goodbye in Japan isn't as easy as a simple wave of the hand: there are different 'goodbyes' for different situations

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Chopsticks: the only cutlery you'll ever need in Tokyo and Japan. Just stick to these rules when using your hashi and you'll do just fine

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Master these cycling rules and etiquette before conquering the Tokyo streets on your favourite bicycle

The basic dos and don'ts for tourists in Tokyo

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Here are some basic courtesy rules that bear repeating and will help you not to stand out for the wrong reasons... 

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Japan is an etiquette-driven society from the cradle to the grave, and paying for things is no exception.

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Shinto and Buddhism have generally coexisted happily in Japan for centuries but to the uninitiated it can be difficult to tell your shrines from your temples...

How to queue in line like a Tokyoite

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Queuing in Japan is an art form. Everyone says ‘the Japanese just love queuing,’ but it is more than that...

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When in Japan, do as the Japanese do. In this case, we’re referring particularly to drinking – and the culture of ‘nomikai’ (work drinking party). Nomikai is an integral part of the Japanese workplace...

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No matter how long you’ve been in Tokyo, dealing with things over the telephone often seems harder than it should be. Put your manners on the line with our guide to the dos and don’ts of dialling...

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There are also quite a few written and unwritten rules of train-taking that, if followed, make everyone’s journey more comfortable, less frustrating and simply better. 

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A sustainable tourism sector can help to reduce global poverty without negatively impacting the environment.

Is it possible to be a ‘sustainable tourist’? 12 ways to make a positive impact on your travels

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After a period of plummeting tourism numbers during the pandemic, tourism is having a resurgence. This is good news for many workers and businesses, but it could be bad for the planet. Here is a selection of ways tourists can ensure that their holidays don’t harm the environment.

There are many positive aspects to tourism. Around two billion people travel each year for tourism purposes. Travel and tourism connect people and bring the world closer through shared experiences, cultural awareness and community building. It provides jobs, spurs regional development, and is a key driver for socio-economic progress.

However, there is often a downside; Many popular destinations are threatened by increasing pollution, environmental hazards, damage to heritage sites and overuse of resources. And that’s without factoring the pollution caused by travel to and from these destinations.

So, with that in mind here are some tips that will help you to enjoy your trip, and leave with the confidence that your favoured tourist destination will not be damaged by your presence, once you return home.

1. Ditch single-use plastics

Often used for less than 15 minutes, single-use plastic items can take more than 1,000 years to degrade. Many of us are switching to sustainable options in our daily lives, and we can take the same attitude when we’re on the road. By choosing reusable bottles and bags wherever you go, you can help ensure there is less plastic waste in the ocean and other habitats.

2. Be ‘water wise’

On the whole, tourists use far more water than local residents. With a growing number of places experiencing water scarcity, the choices you make can help ensure people have adequate access to water in the future. By foregoing a daily change of sheets and towels during hotel stays, we can save millions of litres of water each year.

3. Buy local

When you buy local, you help boost the local economy, benefit local communities, and help to reduce the destination’s carbon footprint from transporting the goods. This is also true at mealtimes, so enjoy fresh, locally grown produce every chance you get.

4. Use an ethical operator

Tour operations involve people, logistics, vendors, transportation and much more. Each link in the chain can impact the environment - positively or negatively. If you prefer to leave the planning to someone else, be sure to pick an operator that prioritizes the environment, uses resources efficiently and respects local culture.

Tourism broadens our horizons...

5. ‘Please don’t feed the animals’

Sharing food with wildlife or getting close enough to do so increases the chances of spreading diseases like cold, flu and pneumonia from humans to animals. Also, when animals get used to receiving food from humans, their natural behaviours are altered, and they become dependent on people for survival. In some cases, it can also lead to human-animal conflict.

6. And don’t eat them either!

By creating the demand, consuming endangered or exotic animals leads to an increase in poaching, trafficking and exploitation of animals. Besides the harm done to the individual animal on your plate, irresponsible dining can contribute to the extinction of species already threatened by climate change and habitat loss. Keep this in mind when shopping for souvenirs as well, and steer clear of products made from endangered wildlife.

7. Share a ride

Transportation is a major contributor to the carbon footprint from tourism. Instead of private taxis, explore using public transportation like trains, buses and shared cabs. You can also ride a bicycle, which offers a convenient and cheaper way to explore and learn about a place.

8. Consider a homestay

Staying with a local resident or family is a nature-friendly option that allows you to get up close and personal with local culture and customs. Staying at local homestays can uplift communities by providing income while giving you a peek into different ways of life.

Dig into the local cuisine. You'll delight your taste buds and support the local economy...

9. Do your homework

Before your travel, educate yourself about your destination. Doing so will allow you to better immerse yourself in local traditions and practices and appreciate things that might have gone unnoticed otherwise. With the right information, you can explore a destination in a more sensitive manner and surprise yourself with new adventures and discoveries.

10. Visit national parks and sanctuaries

Exploring nature and wildlife through national parks is an intimate way to learn about the animals and their ecosystems first hand. In some cases, your entrance fee supports conservation efforts that protect species and landscapes and preserve these natural spaces for future visitors to enjoy.

11. Don’t leave a trace

You can make a mark by not leaving a mark on your vacation destination. Put garbage in its place to avoid litter, and don’t remove or alter anything without permission. Let’s make sure we leave only soft footprints, and not the environmental kind.

12. Tell your friends

Now that you’re ready to travel in eco-friendly style, it’s time spread the word! Inform fellow travellers, friends and family about how sustainable tourism benefits local people by enhancing their livelihoods and well-being, and helps all of us by safeguarding our beautiful environment.

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How to Travel More Sustainably

Don’t skimp on doing your own research, and be aware that ‘green’ certificates aren’t always all they’re cracked up to be.

Credit... Gabriel Alcala

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By Paige McClanahan

  • April 22, 2021

So you’re vaccinated and eager to — finally — plan a real summer vacation after a rough year, but you don’t want to add to the problems you might have read about: overcrowding, climate change, unfair working conditions in the tourism industry. What’s a thoughtful traveler to do?

For those who want to travel responsibly, it comes down to this: You, the traveler, have to do your homework.

Looking for a hotel or tour operator that has earned a sustainability label might seem like a good place to start, but the reality isn’t so simple. There are around 180 certification labels floating around in the tourism industry, each purporting to certify the green credentials of a hotel, restaurant, tour operator or even a destination. And while some of those labels are well enforced, others might better be described as greenwashing — when a company portrays itself as an environmental steward, but its actions don’t match the hype.

“The range is enormous — from rigorous, impartial and excellent to, frankly, poor,” said Randy Durband, the chief executive of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , a nonprofit organization that establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel. “We strongly believe in the value of third-party certification, when it’s done right,” Mr. Durband added. “But the way the word ‘certification’ is used in tourism is out of control.”

Still, while the labels might be all over the map, many businesses are waking up to the importance of improving their environmental and social performance, said Andrea Nicholas, the chief executive of Green Tourism , an Edinburgh-based certification body with more than 2,500 members. The pandemic has brought the concept of sustainable tourism forward by five to 10 years, she said. Before, she added, many businesses saw sustainability as an “add-on.”

“What we’re seeing now, from the interest we’re getting, is that it’s a must-have,” she said.

There are some promising signs that consumers, too, are waking up to the consequences of their vacations. More than two-thirds of respondents to a recent seven-country global survey for American Express Travel said that they “are trying to be more aware of sustainability-friendly travel brands to support.” Another poll, this one for the digital travel company Booking.com, found that 69 percent of the more than 20,000 respondents “expect the travel industry to offer more sustainable travel options.”

What does “sustainable travel” mean, anyway?

Given the diversity of destinations and contexts that a traveler might encounter, there’s no universal answer to what sustainable travel means. A hotel’s water efficiency is a lot more important along Spain’s dry Mediterranean coastline than in rain-soaked western Scotland, for instance.

But experts say that the concept is about a lot more than just reusing the towels in your hotel room or buying a carbon offset for your flight, although those are good places to start.

Sustainability is also about the wages and working conditions of the people who are waiting tables on your cruise ship or schlepping your bag up a trail; it’s about the additional pressure you might be putting on an already-crowded city , heritage site or natural area ; it’s about whether your hotel buys its produce from a farm down the road or from a supplier on the other side of the world, or whether the money you spend goes into the community you’re visiting — or into the distant account of a multinational.

“What you need to do is marry the corporate social responsibility with an informed tourist consumer who knows what they’re asking for, and then demands it,” said Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, an adjunct senior lecturer in tourism at the University of South Australia. She listed some questions that travelers should ask themselves before they take their next trip: How can I travel in an off-peak time? How can I go to places that aren’t overcrowded? How can I ensure that the money I spend ends up in the local economy?

Johannah Christensen, a nonprofit executive and longtime concerned traveler, says that she always looks for some sort of reliable certification when she books a block of hotel rooms for an annual professional event. The Green Key label — a certification program that is headquartered in Copenhagen, where Ms. Christensen lives — is one that she has used in the past, but she is always sure to do some digging on her own. (This 2016 guide to some of the major tourism certifications can be a good starting point.)

“You can look for those green check marks, but understand what’s implied in them,” she said. “What does the hotel actually have to do to earn it? Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

be tourist friendly

How to do your homework

Asking questions — both while you’re traveling and, more important, before you book — is one of the most powerful things that travelers can do, said Gregory Miller, the executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Responsible Travel . He recommends people start by looking closely at the websites of the tour operators, hotels and destinations that they’re considering. If they don’t find any language about sustainability, “that should be a flag,” he said.

Beyond that, he suggests that travelers check his organization’s list of responsible travel tips , which include recommendations like hiring local guides, asking permission before taking photos of people, staying on designated trails in natural areas and thinking twice about handing out money to children. While they’re traveling, Dr. Miller said, people shouldn’t be afraid to ask difficult questions of their service providers, or to call out waste or abuse when they see it — whether directly to a manager or in an online review.

“Certification can be a tool in the toolbox, but don’t be limited by that,” Dr. Miller said. “It’s about choices, and travelers do have the choice.”

Susanne Etti, the environmental impact specialist at Intrepid Travel , a global tour operator based in Australia, had other tips for travelers. She said they could start by checking the list of the more than 230 travel organizations that have joined the Tourism Declares initiative, members of which have pledged to publish a climate action plan and cut their carbon emissions.

Another reliable indicator, she said, is whether a company has been classified as a “B Corporation” — a rigorous sustainability standard that’s not limited to the tourism industry. Her company, Intrepid, has achieved the distinction, as have the apparel company Patagonia and ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s. The B Corporation website lists some three dozen companies in the “travel and leisure” sector — from a paddle sports company in Hawaii to an Ecuadorean tour bus operator. A number of other tourism businesses are listed under “hospitality,” including Taos Ski Valley and Orlando-based Legacy Vacation Resorts.

Dr. Etti also shared some of the advice that she follows in her own travels. “When you fly, make it count,” she said, adding that, before the pandemic, when she would travel from her current home in Australia to her native Germany, she would do the long-haul flight, but then choose trains or other less-polluting ways to get around Europe, even when cheap short-haul flights were readily available.

Dr. Etti also recommended that travelers learn to slow down. “Stay in one location longer,” she said, “to really understand how life works in that community.”

Rethinking what travel means

Many travelers also need a shift in mind-set, said Dominique Callimanopulos, the head of Elevate Destinations , an international tour operator based in Massachusetts that has won a number of awards for its commitment to sustainability. People should learn to see their travels as an opportunity for exchange with a host community rather than a simple consumer transaction. Ms. Callimanopulos said that even her sustainability-inclined clientele rarely do their homework: She has received more questions about the availability of hair dryers than about the company’s environmental or social practices.

“People can make a shift from thinking just about what their personal experience is going to be to looking at the impact of their experience on the ground, on the destination and on the community,” she said.

Lindblad Expeditions , which operates adventure cruises in destinations like Alaska, the Antarctic and the South Pacific, has also won awards for its approach to sustainability and for giving back to the communities it visits. Sven-Olof Lindblad, the company’s chief executive, said that he continues to see people spending up to $40,000 on an Antarctic cruise without doing any research on the practices of the company offering the trip.

“You wouldn’t just buy a car from an ad without understanding what it was and how it compared,” he said. “I’m absolutely amazed at how little diligence people sometimes do in relationship to travel.”

Mr. Lindblad recommended that, in addition to doing their own research, travelers could speak to a travel adviser or travel agent who can help them dig for answers that might not be readily available on a company’s website.

“When people choose to travel, they should really understand what they’re getting into,” he said, “because there’s a lot of smoke and mirrors in this business.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

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11 Most Tourist-Friendly Destinations Around the World

Steve Cummings

November 27, 2023

Haarlem, Netherlands

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When you're on vacation, you want to feel like you're in a different world. But sometimes, you just want to relax and feel at home. That's where these 11 tourist-friendly destinations come in.

In this article, we will reveal the world's best-kept secrets that will turn your travel plans upside down! 

From breathtaking landscapes you've never seen on Instagram to jaw-dropping hospitality that puts 5-star resorts to shame – get ready to be mind-blown by these under-the-radar paradises that will forever change how you see travel! 

Ready to explore? Let’s get into it. 

be tourist friendly

Known for its perfect blend of traditional charm and cutting-edge technology, Japan is a must-visit destination for any traveler. The locals' hospitality, or “omotenashi,” ensures visitors feel comfortable and respected throughout their journey. 

In Japan, you'll be treated like a royal prince or queen. Everyone can gain something from their politeness and deference. Himeji Castle and the historic Kyoto Historic Monuments are just two of Japan's 16 World Heritage Sites. More than 30 million people visit Kyoto every year.

Don't miss the iconic cherry blossom season, which paints the landscape in hues of pink and white, attracting tourists from around the world.

Canada

Canada's reputation for politeness extends to its treatment of tourists as well. Recent research found it to be the most welcoming country in the world. This good news will undoubtedly put foreigners at ease when visiting the country.

The stunning natural landscapes, including the towering Rockies and pristine lakes, offer endless opportunities for adventure. Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a prime example of Canada's commitment to preserving its natural beauty.

 With a diverse cultural scene, friendly locals, and a strong focus on safety, Canada is a dream destination for outdoor exploration and urban excitement.

3. New Zealand

New Zealand

New Zealand's breathtaking beauty is matched only by its welcoming atmosphere. The locals, affectionately known as “Kiwis,” are known for their friendliness and willingness to share their vibrant culture. 

The country's diverse landscapes, from lush forests to picturesque beaches, serve as a playground for thrill-seekers. Bungee jumping, skydiving, and hiking are just a few of the adrenaline-pumping activities that attract visitors. 

With a strong emphasis on sustainability and ecotourism, New Zealand sets an example for responsible travel.

Cudillero in Spain

Spain's warm climate and even warmer hospitality make it a top tourist choice. Spain tops the list of 141 nations considered to be most tourist-friendly by the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index. In Spain, the tourist industry accounts for 6.4% of GDP. 

 The concept of “siesta,” taking a midday break, showcases the Spanish commitment to relaxation and enjoyment. 

The country's rich history is visible in its architecture, with landmarks like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Alhambra in Granada drawing millions of visitors yearly. 

The lively festivals and flavorful cuisine add to the overall experience, ensuring travelers leave with memories to cherish.

5. Australia

Australia

Australia's laid-back attitude and stunning landscapes create an inviting environment for travelers. Australia's tourism industry is worth $95.9 million a day to the country's GDP. The stunning beaches of Australia make you want to pack up and move to the coast permanently.

The famous “G'day mate!” greeting captures the friendly spirit of the locals. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the otherworldly Great Barrier Reef, Australia boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. 

The country's commitment to preserving its unique ecosystems and indigenous cultures adds depth to the experience.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Iceland's pristine landscapes and small population make it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility. The population density in this Nordic island country is the lowest of any European country. 

The area is characterized by a stunning volcanic environment with geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. The stunning natural scenery in Iceland leaves visitors speechless. 

The stunning Northern Lights display adds an ethereal touch to the experience, drawing in visitors from around the globe.

7. Portugal

Panoramic view over Camara de Lobos, Madeira island, Portugal

Portugal's charm lies in its authenticity and genuine hospitality. Anyone who has traveled there as a tourist can attest that the locals are exceptionally kind and welcoming. 

Travelers unfamiliar with Portuguese may have trouble finding their way around or completing tasks, but there is always someone there who speaks English and is happy to assist.

The locals' warm and inviting nature makes tourists feel part of the family. The country's historic cities, including Lisbon and Porto, blend old-world charm and modern vibrancy. 

Portugal's affordability and stunning coastline, with beautiful beaches and dramatic cliffs, make it an appealing destination for many travelers.

8. Thailand

Woman tourist with hat and floral dress looking at James Bond island in Thailand

Thailand's reputation as the “Land of Smiles” speaks volumes about its friendliness towards tourists. Thailand receives millions of visitors annually, so locals have learned to adapt to the presence of foreigners. Tourists are always dispersed around the country, so no traveler ever has to travel alone.

This contributes to a sense of security, and people go out of their way to accommodate tourists.

 From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the serene temples of Chiang Mai, Thailand offers a diverse range of experiences. The exotic cuisine and vibrant festivals add to the overall allure.

Castleknock, Dublin / Ireland - October 2020 : Aerial view of Luttrellstown Castle Resort, luxurious 5-star hotel and wedding venue in 15th-century castle offered for hire

Ireland's famous hospitality is no exaggeration. The locals, known for their wit and friendly banter, create an atmosphere that instantly puts visitors at ease. 

The country's lush landscapes, including rolling green hills and picturesque castles, add to its charm. 

The traditional music scene and cozy pubs provide a warm backdrop for cultural exploration.

10. Netherlands

Channel in Amsterdam Netherlands houses river Amstel landmark old european city spring landscape.

The Netherlands' compact size doesn't diminish its big-hearted hospitality. It is a tiny, flat country with many great places to visit and relax. 

This gorgeous country has everything a traveler could want, from friendly locals and famous buildings to fascinating landscapes, delicious cuisine, and stunning coastline.

The efficient public transportation and widespread English proficiency make travelers convenient.

11. Costa Rica

El Rio Celeste Waterfall, Costa Rica

Costa Rica's “Pura Vida” philosophy, emphasizing a simple and joyful lifestyle, resonates with tourists seeking relaxation and natural beauty. 

The country's lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches offer a paradise for eco-tourists. 

With a focus on conservation, Costa Rica's national parks and protected areas are proof of its dedication to preserving its natural treasures.

Friendly Countries For Tourists

Friendliest Countries in the World

More than just beautiful scenery, the people and communities of these 11 popular vacation spots treat visitors like honored guests. 

Each location has its special allure, from the famous sights to the friendly residents.

So, without questioning their friendliness, let's hop on a plane and head to these places.

10 Fun Countries to Enjoy With Your Family Without Breaking the Bank

Halki Greece

We all need a break from life now and then. Even kids crave an occasional escape from the stresses of schoolwork to head on a grand adventure someplace new and exciting. Finding inexpensive, family-friendly destinations often involves a balance between affordability and offering engaging activities. Here are ten destinations for fun family time without killing your savings. 

The 18 Secret Gems of Europe That You’ve Never Heard Of

be tourist friendly

Europe is known for many wonderful places, such as Paris, Rome, Barcelona, and the beautiful Santorini. There are also many unknown beautiful places that people should visit. Here are a few of the best unknown places in Europe to consider for your next trip:

Find Your Retirement Paradise: 14 Countries That Are Perfect for Retirees

‎Cefalu, Italy

Retirement is a part of life. We work our whole lives to live an extraordinary life at the end of our work life. That means we can enjoy life with great food, adventures, and relaxing lifestyles. It is appealing to many people, and the great thing is that many countries offer many of these things at a reasonable price.

Ready to Retire? Check Out the 14 Best Countries to Live Your Dream Life!

12 Countries You Never Thought You'd Want to Visit, But Will Be Glad You Did

things to do in Slovenia

Perhaps, you want to avoid visiting the same old tourist traps and following the crowds. If you are looking for new and exciting adventures that will leave you with unforgettable memories, look no further. From stunning mountain landscapes to vibrant cultures and delicious cuisine, these destinations are the getaways you never knew you needed.

12 Countries That Are Underrated Traveling Experiences You’d Enjoy

be tourist friendly

I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more.  And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.

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The world's friendliest cities... did your favourite destination make the list?

Sasha Brady

Aug 20, 2019 • 2 min read

be tourist friendly

Vancouver has long been rated as one of the world's most liveable cities but it's just been recognised as the world's friendliest in a new international survey.

Travel News - Friendliest cities

Vancouver is dripping in charms from dazzling skylines to coastlines and now its multicultural population has been singled out for its exceptionally good nature. A poll published this week from Big 7 Travel asked its 1.5 million followers to decide the friendliest city for tourists and expats and Vancouver came out on top. Locals were praised for being "quick to offer assistance to tourists" and authors complimented the city's "community vibe" which makes "socialising in Vancouver simple."

Making yourself at home: 10 of the best cities for expats

Travel News - Friendliest cities

New Yorkers might often be accused of being cold but it appears that reputation is beginning to thaw as it made the cut in 47th place. While it's true that things move pretty fast in Manhattan , authors noted that there's more of a community feel in the neighbourhoods of each borough and a melting pot of cultures, which invites people in. But according to the poll, it's not as friendly as Charleston, South Carolina (33rd) or Houston, Texas (19th) and it doesn't have a patch on Nashville, Tennessee (8th), which was declared the friendliest city in the US. Why? Because it boasts Southern charm by the bucketloads, a lively music scene and friendly locals with a "buzzing attitude and an eagerness to show off their city to out-of-towners."

be tourist friendly

With regards to the top five, Kuala Lumpur's "friendliness towards visitors" drove the Malaysian capital into the second spot, while Bruges's "charming atmosphere" and "locals who go the extra mile to welcome tourists" placed the Belgian city in third. Taipei, Taiwan was recognised as one of Asia’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in fourth place, while Hamburg, Germany's "family-friendly feel" pushed it into the fifth spot.

Travel News - Friendliest cities

You can view the poll's top 10 friendliest cities below and the full top 50 list here .

10th. Glasgow, Scotland 9th. São Paulo, Brazil 8th. Nashville, Tennessee,USA 7th. Christchurch, New Zealand 6th. Dublin, Ireland 5th. Hamburg, Germany 4th. Taipei, Taiwan 3rd. Bruges, Belgium 2nd. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 1st. Vancouver, Canada

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town , farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor . Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The " World's Most Magical Celebration " — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms, starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historic markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

The friendliest cities in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The friendliest cities in the world 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

There are many practical considerations when travelling: budget, distance and the time you have to play with. We spend days – weeks even – planning trips, from relaxing weekend getaways to those once-in-a-lifetime, perspective-shifting  long-haul holidays , going through lists, double-checking details and ensuring everyone joining is catered for. So when we arrive at our destination, we hope for a warm welcome – and there are many cities across the globe ready to lavish it on you in abundance. We called on all of you to rank the friendliest cities in the world as part of our 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. Here are the top 10 in the world, as voted for by you, with a special shout-out to Canada who took four of this year's top spots.

Mexico City Mexico

10. Mexico City, Mexico. Score 92.97

Mexico City is one of the world's largest capital cities and one of the liveliest, with a vibrant arts and culture scene, an upbeat spirit and a hub of historical stories and influences. There are no less than three UNESCO World Heritage sites dotted around the former Aztec capital, where visitors can step back in time within the crumbling walls of five Aztec temples and visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes (known as the Cathedral of Art), which hosts an ever-exciting stream of notable events in music, dance, theatre, opera and literature.

Street view and Cathedral  Cartagena de Indias Colombia

9. Cartagena, Colombia. Score 93.02

Cartagena 's appeal is far more profound than its scenic cobbled streets and  thriving restaurant scene . The grid of the walled city is great for exploring on foot: street vendors selling mango juice, courtyards with fountains and palm trees and churches with lavish gold embellishments. A treat for all the senses.

Rio de Janeiro Brazil

8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Score 93.13

Rio de Janeiro  is a sprawling sea-fronted city in Brazil. Renowned for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the destination is framed by the larger-than-life Christ the Redeemer statue that lords it over the city from its perch atop Mount Corcovado. The symbolic protector of the people stands 38 metres high and takes around 90 minutes to hike up to. Every year just before lent, the Rio Carnival – considered the biggest carnival in the world – sees two million people spill out onto the streets to join the flamboyant, party atmosphere.

Old houses of Alacati among bougainvillea

7. Izmir, Turkey. Score 93.85

Turkey 's third-largest city may be best known as the gateway to the spectacular ruins of Ephesus nearby, but it is most definitely a destination in its own right. Less touristy than Istanbul , this coastal town is welcoming and boasts lovely beaches, great fish restaurants, plenty of historical sites and a bustling bazaar full of treats.

Malaga Andalusia.

6. Malaga, Spain. Score 94.19

Not only was Malaga voted one of the best cities for food in 2023, but it's also taking one of the top spots for being exceptionally amiable. This Mediterranean city still has the salty flavour of a genuine working harbour with a proper old town, but is now also having a cultural and food renaissance with an influx of notable restaurants serving fresh-as-you-like seafood and an abundance of new galleries.

Quebec

5. Quebec City, Canada. Score 94.92

If you’re looking for all the charm of a European city with the friendliness of a Canadian one, visiting Quebec City is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is as beautiful as it is welcoming, with a rich cultural heritage that can be seen in everything from the architecture to the food. Line your stomach with the signature dish of poutine before a tour of the vineyards and lavender fields on the island of Île d’Orléans.

Dublin and Ha'penny Bridge on Liffey River at sunset Ireland

4. Dublin, Ireland. Score 95.37

It will likely surprise hardly anybody that  Dublin  has made it into the list of friendliest cities in the world. The population here are famed for their warm spirit, and striking up an animated conversation with a stranger in a pub is almost as certain here as enjoying a freshly-pulled pint of Guinness. While you're here, walk in history's footsteps at Dublin Castle, pick up unique pieces on Grafton Street and check out the ever-changing exhibitions at the National Gallery of Ireland.

A busy sunset in Victoria BC Canada.

3. Victoria, Canada. Score 95.51

Another Canadian city known for its exceptionally friendly folks, Victoria is less hectic than nearby Vancouver and is another city perfect for those who love exploring the great outdoors. Watch whales while kayaking, taking in the stunning scenery from a seaplane, zipline through the treetops, explore the city's impressive parks and chill out by the waterfront.

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The skyline of Edmonton Alberta Canada with the North Saskatchewan River n the foreground.

2. Edmonton, Canada. Score 95.71

The capital of the Canadian province of Alberta, Edmonton, is fast becoming a sought-after destination thanks to its slower pace and community-oriented atmosphere. Locals are friendly and ready to welcome newcomers to check out the city's frozen castles, ice hockey and maybe even the Northern Lights in winter and a wealth of festivals and riverside frolics in the summer.

View of downtown of Calgary Alberta photographed from Prince's Island Park

1. Calgary, Canada. Score 97.86

Don't let the endless swath of prairie out the airplane window trick you. Calgary may be flat, but it's just 60 miles from the Rocky Mountains, making it an adventurer's playground. Nature and urban living go hand in hand here. You can see mountains from practically everywhere, and outdoor wonderlands like Lake Louise and Banff National Park are just a couple of hours away. Meanwhile, the understated city has great steak restaurants, independent boutiques and a welcoming multi-cultural community.

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How to be a Green Tourist – 11 Tips for Eco Friendly Travel

Do you want to travel without destroying the planet? Being a green tourist is not easy but it is possible! In this post we share our best advice to make sure your next trip is greener. Read on to reduce your footprint and make sure your next trip is as eco-friendly as possible.

1. Plan an Eco-Friendly Itinerary

2. choose time & place carefully, 3. make smart accommodation choices, 4. think before you book, 5. drink responsibly, 6. eat green, 7. buy locally made souvenirs, 8. speak up, 9. take real action, 10. find eco-friendly tourist activities, 11. travel with proven green companies.

As our beloved Kermit the Frog has been saying for years, “It’s not easy being green.”

It’s especially tough if you want to travel!

Green tourism is a relatively new concept in the tourism industry and the powers that be — airlines, international hotel chains, big tour operators — are almost all set up to profit from mass tourism, not mindful tourism .

crowds on venices bridge of sighs

Unfortunately, the environmental impacts of tourism can be devastating when profit takes precedence.

So far, the responsibility for minimizing our travel footprints and being a green tourist rests solely on the individual’s shoulders. The good news is, individual travellers can (and do) use their purchasing power and their voices to make real change in how the travel industry operates.

Green tourism is all about making conscious, deliberate choices that reduce the harm — and increase the positive impact — of travel.

Read on for our guide to greening up your next trip.

11 Tips for Being a Green Tourist

It’s not Easy Being Green That’s why you need our guide to slow travel , our post about the benefits of eco-travel , and our 63 travel tips from 20 years of travel .

Being a green tourist starts before you even leave home.

Too many people plan trips that involve flying from place to place every few days. Not only does this type of travel have the worst environmental impact, it’s also the least fulfilling.

green tourist landscape vietnam

When you hop on a plane from Amsterdam to Paris to Rome, you add enormous amounts of greenhouse gasses to the environment. You also waste a huge chunk of your holiday time in airports!

Worse still, this type of fast travel means you miss all of the amazing places in between.

Tips for creating an eco-friendly itinerary:

  • Travel overland by public transport whenever possible. Busses and trains beat planes every time!
  • Minimize your number of stopovers when you do fly. Direct flights use less fuel.
  • Visit a small geographical area and explore it thoroughly rather than hopping between major destinations.
  • Buy carbon offsets or give to environmental or local charities when you travel.

Planning an eco-friendly itinerary is good for the planet and great for your trip. It allows you to become more involved in the culture and local life and spend less time hauling your heavy suitcase on and off of airplanes, taxis, and trains.

Mass tourism makes a massive impact on the most popular tourist destinations around the world. Especially during high season, in a place like, for example, Dubrovnik, the influx of summer tourists puts unusually high pressure on the environment. (It also creates huge problems for the people who live there.)

archway over empty street in dubrovnik croatia

If you want to visit an extremely popular destination, go in off season or shoulder season when hotels stand empty and attractions are less full. Off-season travellers help bring balance to the environment and the economy of these popular destinations.

Another way to spread out your impact is to travel to less popular countries or less popular regions of the same country. So, don’t just pop in to visit Dubrovnik. Head north to see the rest of Croatia or go south and visit Montenegro and Albania.

It’s not always easy to find hotels that are committed to sustainable tourism practices. Eco hotels are on the rise but they’re still the tiny minority and some that claim to be green businesses aren’t legit. They just say all the right things in order to cash in on the trend for ecotourism.

Here are some tips to find real eco-friendly hotels:

  • Search for eco-conscious hotels at your destination and then check their website or contact them to find out what makes them eco-friendly. Do they have a green tourism award or accreditation like LEED, Green Key or Green Check?
  • Use green-focussed sites like Green Pearls or EcoBnb to find your accommodation.
  • Stay in small, independent hotels, guesthouses, or home stays — large multinational conglomerates are less likely to care about their impact on the local community.
  • Only stay in Airbnbs where the owner still lives. These are arguably the most eco-friendly accommodations because you join a household and share resources with the owner.
  • Stay in hostels. Packing multiple people into one room is more eco-friendly than giving everyone their own space!

tent in the forest outside gothenburg sweden

If you really want to be at one with nature, you can always camp or go glamping. Non-permanent structures generally have less impact on the environment than permanent ones.

Here are some questions to consider before you book any tour or activity:

  • Does the activity involve animals, like elephant riding, dolphin shows, or tiger temples? Many people fool themselves into believing that the animals love these activities. But it doesn’t take much thinking before you realize their true nature. Where do the animals come from? Would they choose to live in captivity? How are they benefitting from your tourism?
  • Does the tour visit sensitive ecosystems? What are they doing to reduce their environmental impact there?
  • Is there a more eco-friendly alternative? For example, you could take a jeep tour to a local waterfall or you could choose a bicycle tour. You could do a speedboat tour of local waterways or you could choose to kayak.
  • How does the tour operator give back to local communities? Do they employ local people? Do they take you to locally-owned businesses? Do they run a foundation or support non-profits?

girl in kayak mountains in background

It doesn’t take long before asking questions like these becomes second nature. You’ll develop a sixth sense that separates the eco warriors from the fakers.

Plastic is a problem everywhere in the world. Whether it is thrown in the ocean, or on the street, or in a garbage dump you never see, the mountains of waste plastic on Earth are ever-increasing.

No matter where you travel, bring your refillable water bottle and always think before you grab a disposable plastic bottle of water, juice, or any other drink. We don’t want you to get dehydrated, but it’s good to keep in mind that the trash from your 5 minutes of thirst-quenching will remain on Earth for millions of years.

If you’re in a country where the water is unsafe to drink, try to find an alternative to small plastic bottles. Buy the biggest bottles of water you can find and then fill your reusable bottle from those. Ask at restaurants and your hotel if you can fill your water from the huge 20-litre containers they usually have for staff.

You probably won’t be able to eliminate 100% of your plastic use while you travel, but you can definitely eliminate a lot.

It is harder to practice eco-friendly eating while travelling than it is at home. Restaurants are huge contributors to food waste and often create excessive carbon emissions.

plate of tempeh in indonesia

Here are a few things you can do to reduce your impact:

  • Always eat at the restaurant. Take-out containers create more garbage and waste.
  • Avoid eating at fast food places or anywhere where they serve food in disposable containers.
  • Don’t order too much food. If you’re not sure how much you need, order a small amount first and then order more if you’re still hungry. We see so many tourists leaving behind plates full of perfectly good food — don’t be one of them.
  • Eat vegetarian, local, and organic food where possible. This supports the local economy while reducing the impact the production and transportation your food has on the environment.
  • Carry your own set of reusable cutlery so you don’t have to use plastic knives and forks while you’re on the go.

Of course, all of these tips for eating green apply equally when you’re at home!

If you’re planning on shopping during your trip, look for keepsakes, clothing, and other souvenirs that have been made locally.

In many countries, you can find handicrafts — anything from silk scarves to obscene bottle openers to kids’ toys — made by underserved members of the community.

If you’re travelling in wealthier countries, it can be tempting to buy a fridge magnet or I Heart City t-shirt. Instead, seek boutiques run by local independent designers or stores that offer products made locally.

Not only will your shopping have better impact on the local community but your souvenirs will be more meaningful and your gifts more thoughtful than if you buy mass-produced items.

When you see a tourism professional — tour guide, hotel owner, restaurant owner — doing something that doesn’t seem eco-friendly to you, speak up. It doesn’t have to be confrontational or obnoxious. Just point out that, as a traveller who likes to engage in responsible tourism, you would prefer that things were done a different way.

Successful tourism businesses listen to your feedback and make changes accordingly.

One place we’ve seen travellers feedback make a huge impact is in northern Cambodia. Elephant rides are almost gone there as all of the sanctuaries shift to a more hands-off approach in response to tourist feedback.

elephant at a sanctuary in Cambodia

This is just one example of many we’ve seen where tourists who were brave enough to speak up made a huge positive change.

As a single traveller, you can make an impact! Don’t be afraid to speak up.

This might be the most radical suggestion we make for would-be eco travellers. Almost everywhere we go, there are local social and environmental problems that could be solved (or at least radically improved) if only there was enough money to do so.

If you are spending a huge chunk of money on travel, then you can afford to slice off a tiny portion of that to help others. It’s easy to do:

  • Choose a percentage of your daily travel budget — 1%, 3%, 5%, even 10% or more
  • Choose an environmental or social charity in the region
  • Donate your chosen amount

For example:

  • You’re on a 10-day trip and your daily budget is $100
  • You choose to give 5% to a local cause
  • That’s $50 to contribute to someone in need

It might mean skipping a couple of evening cocktails, or eating a budget meal or two, but it’s easy to make a difference. Of course, if $50 seems ludicrously small to you, feel free to give more — just give.

It can be tough to separate the true ecotourism providers from the fakers, who say all the right things, but don’t act. Here are a few tips for spotting the best and avoiding the worst.

Follow the 4 Cs

The travel companies who are doing the best work have an eye on all the angles of ecotourism. Especially if you’re choosing a multi-day tour, ask how they are involved in the four Cs:

  • Conservation: Are they actively working on environmental protection in the areas they operate?
  • Culture: Do they provide information and education to their guests about the local way of life and indigenous cultures?
  • Community: Do they employ locals and do they have a way to share profits with the local community, either through social programs or direct profit-sharing?
  • Commerce: Does the company bring money into the local community, besides what it receives itself? Do the profits filter down or flow directly to some giant corporation in another country?

whale tale breaching green tourist

Read reviews

To be honest, this is only helpful if you know what to look for. Most travellers will not notice, or will not mention, environmentally destructive practices once they’ve already bought and paid for an experience.

Sometimes, it is painfully obvious that a so-called eco-friendly experience is just a poorly disguised cash grab. Other times, it can be a little harder to tell and you’ll need to learn to read between the lines.

If you have any doubts about an organization, it’s probably better to find one that ticks all the boxes.

If you end up on an activity that isn’t eco-friendly, please leave an honest review online, so other green travellers will know to avoid it.

Don’t go too cheap

While it is completely possible to be an ecotourist on a budget (and often budget travellers are unwittingly more environmentally friendly, just because they can’t afford the bigger, more damaging aspects of travel), it’s not usually the cheapest activity or tour which is the most eco-friendly.

Why? Because it costs money to give back to locals and to do things in a more environmentally friendly way.

Usually, eco activities end up being somewhere in the middle of the scale — not the cheapest ones but not the most expensive luxury ones either.

Use your common sense

Does something seem off to you? Then it probably is. Don’t engage in mental gymnastics to justify an experience.

Is riding a dune buggy through sand dunes going to damage the sand dunes? Yes. Is a kayak tour less damaging than a speed boat tour? Obviously! Is riding an elephant or watching it paint pretty pictures good for the elephant? Clearly not!

jeep track at the mui ne sand dunes vietnam

It’s easy to try and fool yourself into thinking that the thing you really wanted to do is “not that bad” or “totally fine”.

We have vegan, animal-loving friends who have given us long-winded explanations of why it was OK to ride elephants in India, for example. Other friends have performed logic-bending miracles to explain away their questionable activities.

We do it, too. For example, we fly way more than we, as eco-minded travellers, should and rationalize it on the basis of our otherwise incredibly small eco footprint.

The point is, to choose truly environmentally friendly activities when you’re travelling, it’s important to be aware of the human tendency to rationalize and try your best to look at your plans objectively.

It might seem easier to just book whatever your hotel is offering or opt for the cheapest trip you can find, but, unfortunately, the easiest option is hardly ever the most eco-friendly option.

It’s hardly ever the most fulfilling option either!

Once we find a tour or travel provider we like, who has a proven track record of offering eco-friendly and responsible travel experiences, we like to use them again and again.

A few of our favourites are:

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid runs exceptionally eco-friendly tours. They use local transport when available, take their guests to independently owned restaurants and hotels, and educate travellers about the local issues. They also give money and support to local development organizations and run their own foundation.

Of course, we love them for the eco acumen and social responsibility. But we also love them because they run small group tours that get you up close and personal with the local people while showing you an incredible time.

Explore with Intrepid Travel →

man on bicycle in empty landscape ecotravel

Grasshopper Adventures

We always say the most eco-friendly way to travel is by bike. A Grasshopper Adventures multi-day bike tour will immerse you in the local culture, take you to places where other tourists don’t go, and give you an excuse to try all the amazing food where you’re travelling. If you like active travel, take a look at Grasshopper Adventures.

Go green with Grasshopper →

Vegan Travel and Tours

You’ve probably heard that one of the most impactful things a person can do for the environment is to give up meat. Well, if you’ve already done so, or you’re vegan-curious, then taking a vegan travel tour will satisfy your curiosity.

There are only a few companies offering this kind of tour around the world. We suggest taking a look at:

  • World Vegan Travel , who offer luxury tours on a limited basis
  • Veg Jaunts & Journeys , who specialize in slow travel and off-the-beaten-path experiences

We hope this post has helped you understand what being a green tourist means and how you can make your travels more environmentally friendly. Now let’s get out there and paint the tourism industry green.

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

Tips for travelling green! Being a green tourist isn't easy. But, you can do it with help from our hard-earned tips! Click if you want to be an eco-friendly traveller.

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About Jane Mountain

Hi, I'm Jane, founder and chief blogger on My Five Acres. I've lived in six countries and have camped, biked, trekked, kayaked, and explored in 50! At My Five Acres, our mission is to inspire you to live your most adventurous life and help you to travel more and more mindfully.

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About My Five Acres

Eight years ago, we sold our house and quit our jobs. Now we travel full-time and help others transform through travel.

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Which are the most tourist-friendly countries?

A family looks at a map in front of Barcelona's cathedral at Gothic quarter in Barcelona, Spain, August 18, 2015.

These countries are in the best position to make the most of a thriving tourism industry Image:  REUTERS/Albert Gea

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be tourist friendly

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A hand holding a looking glass by a lake

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Stay up to date:, fourth industrial revolution.

In 2016, the travel and tourism industry contributed an astonishing $7.6 trillion to the global economy – that’s 10.2% of global GDP. It also generated a total of 292 million jobs, which means that 1 in 10 people work in the sector. The numbers of international arrivals are just as impressive, reaching 1.2 billion in 2016, 46 million more than in 2015.

What’s even more incredible is that these figures are expected to continue growing in the coming decade. And this has the potential to help countries generate economic growth, create jobs and enable national and regional development.

But which countries are in the best position to make the most of all these opportunities? Every two years, the World Economic Forum sets out to answer that question by ranking the travel and tourism competitiveness of 136 countries. These are the top 10 according to our latest index .

These countries have successfully created an enabling environment for travel and tourism to thrive by facilitating travel to their nation, promoting their natural and cultural heritage, and ensuring rewarding and hopefully unforgettable experience for their visitors.

Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet and no one-size fits all approach that other countries not in this top 10 list can attempt to copy. Some countries will have more difficulty growing their tourism industry as a result of their economic or geopolitical context, while others may not have been blessed with unique natural and cultural resources.

That said, this year’s report shows that many countries around the world have been able to make policy changes that have made them more competitive. And from those observations, we’ve been able to draw together four interesting points that all countries might learn from.

While historically the majority of travel was North-North, this reality is changing. Outbound travel from Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific is expected to grow exponentially in the coming decade.

Developing and emerging markets are not only becoming larger source markets, but they are also improving their travel and tourism competitiveness in order to position themselves as more attractive destinations. In the 2017 edition of the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report , we found that 12 of the top 15 most improved countries are developing and emerging markets. This growth is here to stay. South-South tourism is on the rise, and this trend will continue as these countries improve their competitiveness and develop their travel and tourism sectors.

While isolationist and protectionist rhetoric is on the front page of the newspapers, the travel and tourism industry, unlike global trade, remains relatively unharmed to date.

Governments around the world realize that for the most part, the barriers to travel are not making people and countries safer, but are hindering economic growth, job creation and tolerance between countries. In 2016, destinations worldwide required 58% of the world’s population to obtain a visa prior to departure – a significant improvement from 2008, when 77% of the world’s population was made to apply for a traditional visa. In effect, the great majority (approximately 85%) of countries have reduced, at least partially, the burden of obtaining a tourism visa in the past two years.

To continue supporting the expected growth in international travel in the coming decades, we need to continue improving policy frameworks and innovate the way people move across international borders.

Today, digital has become a basic requirement to being competitive, even in travel and tourism. Countries not integrating technology and enhancing their connectivity will be left behind. In recent years, we have seen a significant increase in the telecommunications infrastructure across countries. And ICT readiness correlates directly to the amount of value that tourism can generate.

However, the meaning of being “ICT ready” continues to evolve rapidly, causing many organizations, companies and countries to spend time rethinking their “service delivery”, integrating constant connectivity into the experience.

At the same time, the growing number of connected citizens around the world provides a unique opportunity for customers benefit from the inclusive nature of the travel and tourism industry. In effect, the internet has become a great mechanism to enable locals and travellers to connect directly without relying on intermediaries.

Despite growing global awareness on the importance of sustainability, and the fact that real progress has been made on some fronts, many aspects of the natural environment continue to degrade, causing a serious and quantifiable impact on the tourism sector.

Data reveals that the environmental strength of a country is directly related to tourism revenue. Although this relationship is complex, and there is no evidence of direct causality, the more pristine the natural environment of a country is, the more tourists are inclined to travel there, and the more they are willing to pay to access well-preserved areas. Consequently, as the natural capital depletes, destinations lose revenue.

Read the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017 here .

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How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips

These sustainable travel tips will help you become a more responsible traveler

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Being a sustainable traveler means keeping your ecological footprint low while supporting ethical economic development in local communities affected by tourism. That means everything from minimizing plastic consumption and making greener transportation choices to eating at locally owned restaurants and booking eco conscious accommodations.

The goal of sustainable travel is to meet the needs of the tourism industry without harming natural and cultural environments. If not managed properly, tourism can have incredibly negative impacts, from the loss of a destination’s cultural identity to the depletion of natural resources, pollution, and degradation of ecosystems. In many cases, tourism can be a valuable tool to help support communities and give back to nature.

1. Make Smarter Flight Choices

Air travel emissions make up a whopping 20% of a tourist’s carbon footprint. If you must fly, be sure to pack light to lessen the plane’s load and try to book a non-stop flight. On average, non-stop flights reduce carbon emissions by 100 kg per person compared to connecting options. Not only do connecting flights usually require flying greater total distances, planes use more fuel during taxi, take off, and descent.

Londolozi Images / Getty Images

2. Switch to Reusables

Rather than buying plastic water bottles on your travels, bring along a reusable water bottle instead. If you’re heading to a destination with questionable water quality, look into a water purifying system or tablets. Bring along reusable utensils, tote bags, containers, and straws so you can say no to single use plastic while shopping or eating out.

3. Skip Travel Size Toiletries

Single use travel size toiletry bottles are a huge source of tourism-related plastic pollution and help contribute to the nearly 11 million metric tons of plastic pollution dumped into the oceans annually. Switch to refillable and reusable bottles made of glass, silicone, or even recycled plastic material and fill them up with products from your larger sized bottles at home. Even huge chains like Marriott have begun to phase out single use travel toiletries, citing the fact that their properties send 500 million mini plastic bottles into landfills each year.

4. Be Mindful of Local Resources

Pay attention to how much water you’re using while on vacation by opting for short showers instead of baths and turning off the water while brushing teeth or shaving. Fill up your refillable and reusable travel containers with an eco friendly biodegradable soap and shampoo, especially while camping.

Local resources can also include necessities like emergency services and hospital beds. Always research weather conditions and terrain before hiking or taking a road trip to avoid getting lost or injured and having to get rescued, which can drain important public resources and tax dollars.

5. Do Your Research

Look for accommodations, destination, products, and tour companies that have been deemed sustainable by a legitimate certifying body. In the sustainable tourism world, that means organizations like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , The Rainforest Alliance , and Earth Check .

Sustainably-minded travelers should always be on the lookout for greenwashing in the travel industry, as well. Any company can call themselves sustainable or “green” in an attempt to attract eco-minded customers, so it is important to research ahead of time to find out what specific sustainable actions they’re taking. If a company has done the work to develop responsible tourism policies that include environmental and social impacts, they’ll have the information displayed on their website. If not, don’t be afraid to ask.

6. Respect Natural Places

Ronda Kimbrow / Getty Images

Remember that marked hiking trails are there for a reason, usually to help preserve the surrounding environment and keep native flora out of harm’s way. Take out what you brought in and don’t litter. Keep your distance from wildlife and never feed or touch wild animals, for your own safety and for the safety of the animals themselves.

In beach areas, use reef safe sunscreen without harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, and never step on coral or stir up sediment (which can also cause damage to the ecosystem).

7. Support Locals Directly

Seeking out local experiences like homestays and hiring local guides is the best way to learn about a new culture — while also ensuring that your money goes directly toward stimulating the local economy.

Purchasing handmade souvenirs and art created by indigenous artisans can help preserve authentic cultural heritage and provide jobs. Food that is grown locally and businesses that are owned and operated by local families are often better quality and more budget friendly, all while helping keep money in local pockets.

8. Go Low Impact

Choose vacations that demand less resources and make less of an impact on the environment, such as camping or even glamping . If you go the more traditional vacation route, opt for low impact activities that will have zero to minimal impact on the environment, such as kayaking or hiking. 

9. Find Ways to Give Back

Consider the ways that you can contribute to the local community and give back while traveling. This can be as simple as picking up a piece of trash in the park or volunteering for a beach clean up. If you’re planning a trip where volunteering is your primary objective , make sure that the charity has strong links with host communities and isn’t taking jobs away from local people. There has been a lot of debate as to whether or not “voluntourism” does more harm than good, and in many cases, you’re better off donating money or goods through a reputable organization.  

Pack for a Purpose helps connect travelers with charities to provide supplies needed for specific communities.

10. Don’t Support Unethical Wildlife Tourism

If you want to view wildlife, see them in their natural habitats or go to accredited wildlife sanctuaries that work to rescue and rehabilitate animals. When it comes to ecotourism, check with advocacy groups like the International Ecotourism Society for organizations that follow strict sustainable tourism practices.

Supporting activities like cub petting and elephant riding helps encourage abusive industries that often illegally capture animals from the wild. Never buy products made from wildlife parts, as this helps support marketplaces for animal trafficking.

11. Don’t Leave Your Sustainable Habits at Home

If you’re a regular Treehugger reader, chances are you already have plenty of sustainable practices you use every day, so continue to use them while traveling. Turn the lights off and the air conditioning down when you leave a room, and ask your hotel about their recycling program. Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your sustainable lifestyle has to fly out the window. 

12. Respect Local Culture and Traditions

Do some research on the culture and traditions of a destination before you travel; it will not only help you make a connection to the place, but also help ensure that you honor the local customs. Even better, learn the language or a few important words and simple phrases such as “please,” and “thank you.” If you run across a local ceremony while on your travels, keep a respectful distance.

13. Stay Longer

Tourism transportation demands affects energy use and CO2 emissions, but also puts pressures on infrastructure and land. Shorter lengths of stays that focus on restricted time budgets can lead to high concentrations of tourist flows in “must see” attractions, while tourists who stay longer are more likely to visit more small businesses in locations outside of main tourist areas. Instead of planning trips where you try to visit as many places or see as much as possible in a short amount of time, consider staying in one spot for longer and really getting a feel for the area.

14. Be Adaptable and Understanding

One of the best parts of traveling is seeing new things and having new experiences. Keeping an open mind and not demanding everything that you’re used to in your own country will put less pressure on your destination and its people. Not to mention, you’ll probably have a better time.

15. Travel Shorter Distances

Tourism is responsible for about 8% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, and transportation accounts for nearly half of global tourism’s carbon footprint. That doesn’t mean you have to give up your lifelong dream of visiting the Eiffel Tower, just don’t count out the unique experiences available in your very own country or closer to home. If you do want to visit popular tourist destinations, go during off season or shoulder season .

16. Walk as Much as Possible

A majority of tourism’s environmental footprint can be attributed to transport, but that doesn’t just include airplanes. A tourist’s first stop after arriving at a new destination is often the airport car rental counter, so that they can get to their accommodation or head off to see the sights. Instead, sustainable travelers use every opportunity to walk, bike, or utilize public transportation in order to avoid those transportation related emissions. Check if your destination has a bike sharing program or has an easy-to-navitage train system, you might even save some money at the same time.

17. Look Into Carbon Offsets

Sustainable travelers should always try to reduce their carbon footprint first, but offsetting can be a useful tool in situations where reducing your footprint might be more difficult.

Carbon offsetting involves compensating for generated greenhouse gas emissions by reducing emission elsewhere. For example, TerraPass lets users calculate their carbon footprint from vehicles, public transit, air travel, and home energy before providing ways to contribute to sustainable projects like water restoration and wind power.

18. Share What You’ve Learned

Share sustainable travel tips with friends, family members, and fellow travelers; even small changes can make a huge difference. Travel teaches us how to better understand the world by introducing us to new cultures and customs different than our own. Plus, humans are innate explorers, so traveling will always be a massive industry. If we can share ways to make travel more environmentally friendly, respectful, and sustainable, we can highlight the valuable aspects of tourism and reduce the negative ones.

Start with switching up your modes of transportation. Take ground transport instead of flying when possible and public transport instead of your own vehicle. For shorter distances, try walking or cycling. It also helps to travel slower, focusing on one destination or city instead of trying to explore an entire region.

Regenerative travel is a step above sustainable travel. It means traveling in a way that not only produces no impact but is actually beneficial to local communities and the environment. You might do this by volunteering or staying at an agritourismo.

Look for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification. GSTC is an independent, neutral organization that establishes and monitors global standards for destinations and tourism companies all over the world.

Debbage, Keith, and Neil Debbage. " Aviation Carbon Emissions, Route Choice, and Tourist Destinations: Are Non-Stop Routes a Remedy? " Annals of Tourism Research , vol. 79, 2019, pp. 102765, doi:10.1016/j.annals.2019.102765

" Fuel Conversation Strategies: Takeoff and Climb ." Boeing.

" Breaking the Plastic Wave ." Pew Charitable Trusts.

" Marriott International To Eliminate Single-Use Shower Toiletry Bottles From Properties Worldwide, Expanding Successful 2018 Initiative ." Marriott International.

" Is Your Sunscreen Killing the Coral Reef? " Ocean Conservancy.

Gossling, Stefan, et al. " Global Trends in Length of Stay: Implications for Destination Management and Climate Change ." Journal of Sustainable Tourism , vol. 26, no. 12, 2018, pp. 2087-2101, doi:10.1080/09669582.2018.1529771

Lenzen, Manfred, et al. " The Carbon Footprint of Global Tourism ." Nature Climate Change , vol. 8, 2018, pp. 522-528, doi:10.1038/s41558-018-0141-x

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In Europe, where many trains are electric, the emissions from rail travel can be as much as 10 times less than flying.

How to travel better: a beginner's guide to sustainable travel in 2023 and beyond

Sustainable, green, responsible — planet-friendly ways to explore the world are more popular than ever but how do you start to make better decisions when you travel? The first step is to understand what sustainable travel is and why it’s important.

What’s sustainable travel? Sustainable travel is about travelling in a way that’s sensitive to the climate and nature emergencies while ensuring that the wellbeing of the places we visit gain long-term benefit from us travelling there. It’s a balancing act between maximising the positives of travel while reducing or eliminating the negatives.

What’s happening and why? The concentration of carbon dioxide currently in the atmosphere is well over 400 parts per million higher than at any time in at least 800,000 years — and it’s still increasing, causing global temperatures to rise. The consensus is that a rise of just 1.5C will cause dangerous warming of the planet. The stability of our world’s climate hinges on whether we can keep this small rise in global temperatures in check and time’s running out. This is the decade that counts.

How does this impact the natural world? Commensurate with the climate crisis is the nature emergency: worldwide, 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction due to the intensification of agriculture and forestry, resource extraction, hunting, invasive species, urban sprawl, pollution and climate change. Yet, this is not just about the disappearance of remote rainforests or polar bears at the extremities of the planet – habitat and biodiversity loss are happening on a colossal scale in the UK, to our hedgerows and forests, our garden birds, and the fish in our seas.

What can you do about it? Being a sustainable traveller is not about making grand, one-off gestures, it’s a state of mind, an ongoing attitude to conscious adventure that influences all aspects of how we holiday, including what we pack in our luggage and how we travel out to destinations, as well as the choice of hotels and activities we take part in while we’re there.

The nature emergency, which is commensurate with the climate crisis, affects us all.

How do I even get started? To begin with, consider packing less: travelling lighter will reduce the chances of having to dispose of items; it makes it much easier to travel around, especially on foot, by bike or on public transport; and it’s more fuel efficient — especially noticeable if you’re travelling in an electric car. A useful device for packing economically is to consider the three Rs: Reduce: What can I get away with not taking; are there items that can double up for several uses? Reuse: What can I take that I can reuse over and over again? Recycle: What can I take that can be recycled once I’ve finished using it? Try to avoid taking single-use plastic, such as bottles, bags and straws, which break down over time into tiny microplastics that enter the food chain when they’re consumed by marine wildlife and ultimately cause serious health issues for humans. Instead, pack a refillable water bottle, coffee cup, Tupperware containers for food and toiletries, and a shopping bag — it’ll be handy not just as a replacement for buying a plastic bag at a supermarket, but also when you’re out buying food and groceries at a local market.

What’s the most important change that I can make? The single more significant way to reduce the carbon emissions of travelling is to tackle the transport portion, which is often responsible for at least 70% of the carbon emissions of a holiday. The most effective way to do this is to reduce the distance travelled and to travel in a way that burns less or, even better, no fossil fuels, using more sustainable modes of transport; or by not travelling in a vehicle at all, choosing instead to travel on foot, by bike or under sail. There’s a steep difference in terms of the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by aeroplanes compared with most land-based vehicles. There are concerted efforts to decarbonise air travel using alternative fuels and methods of propulsion (such as via electricity and hydrogen), but even the most optimistic predictions support that this change is at least a decade away for most airlines. For the time being, the emissions from just one long-haul flight can be more than those caused by someone driving a standard petrol car for a whole year. Taking the train within the UK emits about six times less than flying and taking the bus emits about nine times less. In Europe, where many trains (including Eurostar) are electric, the emissions from rail travel can be as much as 10 times less than flying.

And what if I do need to fly? If you do fly, bear in mind that there’s quite a large disparity between the carbon emissions of aircraft and the operating procedures of airlines, so do use online tools such as the ‘Greener Choices’ label on the search results provided by the flight search engine skyscanner.net , which flags up those flights that have less than average emissions.

While flying continues to be such a large polluter, consider adopting a more selective approach to flying: just as with the flexitarian approach to food where you eat a mainly plant-based diet and only occasionally eat lean meat and sustainably sourced fish, a similar attitude to flying could be that you mainly travel overland and only occasionally fly, staying for longer, and making the most of the flight by choosing a positive-impact holiday that benefits nature conservation and/or genuinely benefits the wellbeing of local communities.

Travelling lighter makes it much easier to travel around, especially on foot or by bike.

What does my carbon impact look like once I get to a destination? There are other factors that will affect your carbon emissions when you’re at the destination, including your choice of hotel and the food you eat. The average carbon footprint of a night in a typical hotel in the UK is about 31.1kg CO2, according to the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative, so choosing a hotel that has lower than average carbon emissions can make a significant difference to your holiday’s footprint. Thankfully it’s becoming easier to find green accommodation — keep an eye out for the green filters on specialist accommodation booking sites, such as Airbnb’s ‘off-the-grid’, Sawday’s 'Sustainable stars'   and   i-escape's 'eco rating', there are several online agencies that specialise in green accommodation, such as fairbnb.coop and myecostay.eu , and even the big online agencies, such as Booking.com , TripAdvisor and Google , now flag up eco-certified hotels in their search results. Many of these eco-certified accommodations do much more than reducing their carbon emissions, they’ll also reduce the amount of waste they send to landfill and reduce the use of chemicals and the amount of water they use.

Feasting on local, seasonal food washed down with the local tipple conveys a sense of place better than any travel brochure. It’s also much better for the environment as there are significant emissions of carbon arising from the ‘food miles’ associated with transporting food great distances. Whether it’s freshly baked bread for breakfast, salad from the local market for lunch, or the catch of the day at the nearby restaurant, choosing local isn’t just good for the planet, it’s also healthier and a great way to put money into the local community.

Where to go Some of the most colourful cities in Europe are a great choice for a green break, such as Bristol, Angers, Nantes, Zurich, Ljubljana and Copenhagen. Here, pragmatic local authorities are implementing the circular economy to create sustainable transport, housing and economic development policies that are accelerating their transition to net zero, which has the knock-on effect of improving the experience for sustainable travellers. For example, regenerative wetlands and connected green spaces help manage storm water, air quality and improve biodiversity, but also provide wonderful green sanctuaries that are great for appreciating urban nature or for just chilling out in parks and gardens across urban villages.

Choosing to travel by bike is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

And how to get around? Countries that have a modern, high-speed rail infrastructure make it easy to travel with a lower carbon footprint. Switzerland has an extensive public transport network across the country (the Swiss Travel Pass provides free admission to 500 museums as well as unlimited travel on trains, bus, boat and public transport in cities), while France, Spain, Italy and Germany have impressive high-speed rail networks, particularly between major cities.

What about long haul? Further afield, some countries have made concerted efforts to include tourism in their sustainable development goals. Following decades of tree clearing for agriculture and livestock production, in the 1980s the Costa Rican government implemented policies that have halted and reversed this deforestation. Today, over half of Costa Rica’s land is covered by forest, compared to just 26% in 1983, allowing it to make the most of the biodiversity in its rainforests and pioneer the concept of ecotourism, developing small-scale, high-end eco lodges that have contributed to the conservation of its rainforests. Guyana, too, is developing community-based ecotourism to fund the protection of its rainforests. Lodges such as Iwokrama River Lodge , Rewa Eco-Lodge and Surama Eco-Lodge enable visitors to enjoy the country’s incredible biodiversity, while contributing to its conservation and to the livelihoods of remote communities.

Where can I look for more information? Richard Hammond is a sustainable travel expert and founder of Green Traveller and the author of The Green Traveller: Conscious Adventure That Doesn’t Cost the Earth (£18.99, Pavilion).

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Explore > Type of vacation > Family > Most tourist-friendly cities in the U.S.

Most tourist-friendly cities in the U.S.

There’s a reason you want to go where everybody’s always glad you came—it just feels nice. We love to travel, but sometimes navigating new places and dealing with less than accommodating locals can take the fun right out of it. So we’ve found 13 cities that go above and beyond to welcome travelers with open arms (and stellar amenities) to ensure the smooth sailing vacation of your dreams.

If you know all too well the impersonal service or intimidating nature of larger destinations, let your wanderlust lead you to one of these inviting cities. For tourists, these are the friendliest cities in America, and we’ve given them ratings from 1 to 5 for features that most make or break any travel experience. This is our second-annual list, so for even more options, make sure to check last year’s choices .

Rating criteria: Helpful tourism board Things to do Quantity/quality of hotel options Access to an airport or major transit center City/discovery tours Amenities ratings* *From AreaVibes.com

Anchorage, Alaska

aurora borealis over tent in Alaskan forest

Austin, Texas

aerial view of kayaks along Barton Creek

Bar Harbor, Maine

People walking on rocks by the sea at Arcadia National Park

Deadwood, South Dakota

green trolley on the street in downtown Deadwood

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

quaint colonial inn in Gettysburg

Emerald Coast, Florida (Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island)

stretch of white sands beach dotted with blue umbrellas

Napa Valley, California

three colorful hot air balloons above Napa Valley

Provincetown, Massachusetts

colorful sailboat on the coast of Provincetown

Sedona, Arizona

A female hiker facing away from the camera in Cathedral Rock located in Sedona Arizona

Natchez, Mississippi

tree-lined road near Natchez, Mississippi

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

woman taking a photo of the beach and coastline of St John

Williamsburg, Virginia

horse-drawn carriage driven by man in colonial costume in Williamsburg

Mackinac Island, Michigan

road leading to quaint town overlooking the sea

  Ready to check out these tourist-friendly cities for yourself? Use the Expedia mobile app to book your next trip!

What are the best cities for tourists in America? Let us know in the comments!

[toggle title=”Click here to see last year’s picks for tourist-friendly cities” state=”closed”] Some places beckon to travelers with their popularity and wealth of things to do, but sometimes those things can come with a cost. In some of the most popular tourist cities, not everyone is happy to see you. From disgruntled locals to overworked hospitality professionals, less than welcoming aspects can color a trip in a negative light.

Thankfully, there are plenty of cities that welcome travelers with open arms, and we’ve rounded up the 16 places where you’ll find the warmest welcome. Based on the following criteria and rated from 1 to 5 ⭐ in each category, these choices represent helpful, hospitable, comfortable, and easy-to-navigate places that never met a stranger they didn’t help out.

Feel free to pull out your camera, ask for directions and recommendations, or simply look around in wonder—in these friendly cities, no one will judge you for it.

Rating Criteria: Helpful tourism board Things to do Quantity/quality of hotel options Access to an airport or major transit center City/discovery tours Amenities and weather ratings* *Gathered from AreaVibes.com

Bozeman, Montana

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐

San Luis Obispo, California

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Chicago, Illinois

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐

Columbus, Ohio

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

North Adams, Massachusetts

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Petoskey, Michigan

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Memphis, Tennessee

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kent, Washington

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Merriam, Kansas

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Raleigh, North Carolina

be tourist friendly

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐

Winona, Minnesota

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐

New Orleans, Louisiana

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Manassas, Virginia

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Buffalo/Niagara, New York

be tourist friendly

Helpful tourism board: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Things to do: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Quantity/quality of hotel options: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Access to an airport or major transit center: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ City/discovery tours: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weather: ⭐⭐⭐

Where have you experienced the warmest welcome? [/toggle]

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Wander-Lush

How to Be a Tourist in Your Own City: 12 Easy & Creative Tips

With many of us forced to stay local for the foreseeable future, you may be looking for responsible and safe ways to keep your travel spirits high. If you can still move around, now may be the perfect time to get out and explore your own backyard.

There are lots of benefits to travelling local – including helping small businesses stay afloat. Supporting local tourism at a time when international visitors are down is critical to helping the industry survive.

Staying curious can lift your spirits during difficult times. Wandering your town or city on foot is a terrific way to get some exercise in and boost your immune system.

You may feel like you know your city inside and out – but trust me, there’s always something new to learn. Take a leaf out of Ferris Bueller’s book – tick off those bucket-list items you’ve never got around to; seek out your own ‘I-think-I-can-see-my-dad’ moment .

Here are 12 easy and budget-friendly tips for being a tourist in your own city.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

12 ways to be a tourist in your own city

1. take your camera for a walk.

One of my favourite ways to get a fresh perspective on a familiar place is by looking at it through the lens. I used to pack my camera away as soon as I arrived home after a trip, thinking I’d seen it all and that my city was ‘boring’ in comparison.

In reality, there are probably just as many photo opportunities close to home as abroad.

Try using a macro lens to pick up the small details you’d otherwise miss. You don’t have to visit tourist spots necessarily – it can be just as rewarding to photograph architecture, nature or street scenes, depending on your interests.

Photographing a place where you feel comfortable and confident can be a great opportunity to push the boundaries and hone your skills. I’ve even taken photography tours in my home city – they’re always a lot of fun!

2. Get up for sunrise

Another way to get a new look at your town is by going out at a different time of day. Rising early might already be part of your routine – but how often do you go out sightseeing at daybreak?

Go for an early morning stroll before the city wakes up (a great way to get some exercise while practicing social distancing), or head somewhere for a golden hour view. If your town has a popular sunrise or sunset spot for tourists that you’ve never been to, give it a go and see what it’s like.

Welcoming the day by watching the sun come up always helps me feel humble and connected. It can be a great way to brighten your mood during dark times.

3. Visit a viewpoint

One of the first things I do when I arrive at a new destination is go somewhere for a view. I find that getting a bird’s eye perspective helps me orientate myself while getting a feel for the scale and layout of a place.

I can’t remember the last time I drove or walked to a lookout point in my own city… Shame on me! This is a classic example of an activity that I always put on the back burner, thinking I’ll get around to it the next time a friend visits.

Does your town or city have a lookout point that’s popular among tourists? Check it out for yourself – maybe it will give you a new appreciation for the beauty of your city.

If you're in between trips, you might find the travel inspiration you need in your own backyard. Here are 12 ways to be a tourist in your own city.

4. Walk a route you normally drive

It’s easy to let the world flicker by when you’re in the car or riding on public transport. Even if you’re looking out the window, you’re always bound to miss things.

There are probably routes you take to work or school that you think you know inside out. Try walking part of the way instead and see what new things you can spot from street level.

When life returns to normal, you’ll have a renewed sense of appreciation for those paths well-trodden.

5. Borrow a guidebook

Even if you’re an avid guidebook reader, chances are you’ve never picked up a guide to your own town or city. That’s a huge untapped resource!

Head to your local library to borrow a book or download a PDF. See how many sights you’ve never seen or activities you’ve never experienced, then start a local bucket list. If you think you’re an expert on your hometown now, just wait until you’ve hit up all the tourist spots.

6. Be a tourist in your own city by joining a guided tour

This one might seem obvious, but if you want a history lesson or an alternative hands-on experience, a surefire way to experience your city from a tourists’ perspective is by joining a guided excursion. Free walking tours are perfect because they usually combine history and local tips.

A self-guided walking tour can also be fun. When you’re wandering around, be sure to read any information panels – I’ll be you’ve never stopped to read those plaques before.

If you're in between trips, you might find the travel inspiration you need in your own backyard. Here are 12 ways to be a tourist in your own city.

7. Follow a blogger’s itinerary

On a similar note, it can be fun to follow in the footsteps of an outsider who has spent a limited amount of time in your city. Search online for curated itineraries from bloggers or travel writers – even better if they have different interests to you – and see what their top picks are.

Check out some of the spots they endorse then leave them a comment or write them an email to tell them what you thought. As a blogger myself, I always appreciate recommendations from locals on what to visit next time I’m in town.

8. Write your own city guide

On the flipside, you could try taking on the role of author yourself. There’s no one better qualified to write a city guide than a local, after all! What are the must-sees? What should people avoid? If a tourist asked you for a personal recommendation, where would you point them?

Travellers usually approach cities from a completely different angle to locals. Putting yourself in the shoes of an ‘outsider’ can really help to refocus your worldview.

Write your own online itinerary, make a photo guide, record a video or use social media to share your tips – future travellers will love your recommendations. This is a great way to promote your favourite local businesses, too.

9. Retrace an artist’s footsteps

Maybe there’s a movie or TV series that was filmed in your city, or a novel set in your area. If you need some extra inspiration, you could watch/read then visit some of the locations mentioned.

Alternatively, get acquainted with a local painter or sculptor and seek out the locations where they found artistic inspiration. One of my favourite books of all time is set in my hometown – I always get a pang of nostalgia and pride when I walk down streets or past cafes named in the story.

If you're in between trips, you might find the travel inspiration you need in your own backyard. Here are 12 ways to be a tourist in your own city.

10. Seek out the popular Instagram spots

Every city and town has (in)famous Instagram spots these days. Whether it’s a city sign, a viewpoint or some other beautiful backdrop, places where tourists flock for photos may be totally off a local’s radar (I can think of a few examples in my own city that I know are popular but that I’ve never bothered to visit myself).

Be a tourist for the day – go on a selfie treasure hunt and snap photos solo or with a friend . If you’re anything like me, your photo library is probably lacking images from your own city – now’s your chance to fix that once and for all!

11. Eat at your town’s most touristy restaurant

Are there venues in your town or city that tourists love but locals avoid ? If you can’t think of any, here’s where that guidebook or blogger’s itinerary might come in handy!

Play tourist and take yourself out for a meal to see what all the fuss is about. Alternatively, you can order takeaway or delivery. This is the perfect way to champion small restaurant and cafe businesses that are struggling with the downturn in tourism.

12. Book a staycation

One of the best ways to give local businesses a boost is by booking a staycation close to home. It could be a hotel a few kilometres away or a guesthouse or homestay in a rural town nearby.

Ask your host for their recommendations and leaf through the brochures and flyers in the lobby – you might just pick up a few tips.

Eat at a small restaurant, visit a local museum, and do some classic touristy activities while you’re there. You’ll feel totally treated, and you’ll be giving local tourism a much-needed vote of confidence. If you have a positive experience, don’t forget to leave a review.

If you find yourself having to cancel international travel plans and stay home instead (whether it’s because of the current pandemic or something else entirely), that doesn’t mean you can’t fuel your passion for travel.

Take this opportunity to discover your own backyard – you might just find yourself falling in love with your home city or town. And when it’s safe to start travelling again, consider local tourism as a way to help the economy.

I hope this list has give you some inspiration for ways to be a tourist in your own city . Do you have any other tips to add? If so, please share them in the comments below.

More inspiration

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  • How to support small travel businesses , easy & actionable tips
  • Tips for making friends on the road , make your travels more fulfilling
  • 10 ways to find authentic souvenirs when you’re travelling , support artisans
  • Tips for supporting small businesses when you travel , give back to local communities
  • 12 tips for eating like a local when you’re on the road , tips your stomach will thank you for!
  • How to avoid crowds when you’re travelling , get off the beaten path
  • How to be a more mindful traveller , get more out of your journey
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Great tips, thanks I’ve used a lot of time with my camera the recent two years of the pandemic being a tourist in my own city and its surroundings. Usually on my cycle to get some necessary exercise for my health but also just walking. It’s been fun, both to revisit places I’ve not seen for many years and to find new attractions never seen before. And there are a lot of those, it seems…! I’m not a professional photographer, but enjoy every time I return with a good shot or two from my trips around town. Especially because it helps my memory later on.

That’s terrific Jesper, cycling is such a great way to explore! Thanks for your comment!

These tips rock! Thanks for writing this!

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Inside the Travel Lab

15 Sustainable Beach Tips That Will Surprise You (and How Alabama Is Leading the Way)

May 5, 2022

Beach Tips Cover Image - eco friendly beach tips

Responsible travel is changing, as these sustainable beach tips will show. Have an even better trip this year by going beyond the standard eco-friendly advice. But not, perhaps, in the way you imagine… Here’s how to make your trip more eco friendly…

See also: how to be a responsible tourist.

Beach Tips Cover Image - eco friendly beach tips

Table of Contents

How to Plan a Sustainable Beach Trip

If you’re here, reading an article on sustainable beach tips, then half the battle is done: your heart is already in the right place.

One of the first difficulties in the fight for sustainable travel is to get people to care in the first place. One of the second is working out what we should do with our noble intentions!

Our planet is amazing and so much green advice focuses on using less, travelling less and doing less. But I truly believe that the benefits of sustainable travel exceed the downsides. That travel can be a force for good.

So, let’s get one thing out of the way. These sustainable beach tips do not begin and end with you sitting in your back garden or local park, with a scenic screensaver on the laptop and a home-made pina colada on the side, pretending that this is just as good as the real thing.

No, we can be more strategic and more effective than that.

As Robert Stoney, Director of Sustainability and Environmental Development at Gulf State Park, pointed out on the white sands of Alabama: “Sustainable travel is good. It’s also good for business.”

So read on for these sustainable beach travel tips. You may be surprised at what’s changed…

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park beach - mother and daughter power pose

Sustainable Beach Travel Tips: At a Glance

  • Stay in sustainable accommodation
  • Choose an eco friendly beach
  • Don’t leave any rubbish
  • Leave wildlife alone
  • Decline plastic straws
  • Use reusable and refillable cups, like these.
  • Remove litter yourself
  • Flatten out sandcastles
  • Use eco friendly sunscreen
  • Choose plastic-free snacks
  • Take an eco beach tour
  • Spread the word!
  • Buy & support local
  • Support eco friendly organisations
  • Choose sustainable clothing

How to Make Your Trip More Eco-Friendly

Right, let’s get down to business with these eco beach travel tips.

Choose an Eco-Friendly Beach to Begin With

Of all the sustainable travel tips in this article, this one probably has the most impact.

Now, we could be pedantic and state the obvious: that all beaches are wonders of nature and that therefore there is no such thing as an eco friendly beach.

However, in this case, I’m talking about the facilities and culture that have built up around a beach.

In some cases, there’s nothing at all. These beaches are pristine with not even a restroom or dustbin to their name. Then, there’s the opposite. Beaches so built upon that it’s easy to forget that nature lives underneath.

How to Find an Eco-Friendly Beach:

  • Check out places with a commitment to sustainability, like Gulf State Park in Alabama, an extraordinary place and a world leader in eco-tech development.
  • Look out for Blue Flag Beaches , which have been awarded their Blue status by the Foundation for Environmental Education. This global not-for-profit organisation has members in over 60 countries and reviews the awards on an annual basis. At present, you can find over 4000 Blue Flag beaches across the world, with Spain having the highest concentration.
  • Another approach is to check out the ethical travel destination lists for more far flung destinations.
  • And, of course, don’t overlook any beautiful beaches you do have near home. Cut out the flights and reduce your carbon footprint and it’s automatically a more sustainable beach trip.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Hilton The Lodge Beachfront chairs

Choose Sustainably-Minded Accommodation

Right next after finding and visiting an eco-friendly beach, the next biggest impact you can have involves where you sleep.

It doesn’t hurt that many sustainably minded places or eco-retreats are beautiful. Take, for example, the calming Eagle Cottages in Alabama. Overlooking Lake Shelby and set in the heart of the Gulf State Park , the interiors are bright white and beautiful. The exterior has cycling paths and hiking paths, naturalists and bald eagles. And it’s only the shortest of journeys to the fabulous white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast.

They’re eco. They’re beautiful. But here came my big surprise.

On the sustainability tour organised by Eagle Cottages, we stopped off at the beachside Lodge Hotel. With a high rise structure from the playbook of mass tourism, it was revelation to learn that this place was the most eco of all.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Exterior of Hilton The Lodge Hotel - sustainable eco beach hotel

Head to Alabama

Believe it or not, Alabama is leading the world when it comes to sustainable beach travel.

The Lodge conforms to both LEED® Gold and SITES Platinum certification, the only hotel in the world to do both. The glass has etchings to prevent bird strikes. The outdoor areas use special lights to protect turtle nesting at night. The resort filters its own water and creates so much energy from solar power that it not only powers itself but also manages to sell power back to the grid.

I was amazed.

This turned all my ideas of what sustainable travel looks like upside down. It reminded me that, of course, sustainable travel is not an instagram look or a puritanical urge to live with less. But a measurable difference for the planet and for people.

And, as Sustainability Director Robert Stoney says, “sustainability is good for business.”

And what was even more striking? That this all came about as a result of the Deepwater Horizon disaster. The biggest marine oil spill in history was, without doubt, a major catastrophe. But, in one of those strange quirks of fate, it led to a 20 billion compensation package from BP for the residents of the Gulf Coast.

And they asked a question. Build back the same? Or build back better?

They chose to build back better and now Alabama’s beaches are leading the way.

And if they can do it, maybe everyone can. Here’s hoping…

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Eagle Cottages - Abigail King outside the cottage

More About The Eco Project in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Sustainable travel is a complex subject and Gulf State Park is approaching the topic in several different ways:

  • The Interpretetive Center in Gulf Shores’ Gulf State Park aims to create buildings that give more than they take. The Living Building Challenge sets ambitious goals to make people healthier and happier through architecture. In practice, you’ll find information boards that explain and document how the water and solar energy practices work right there on the beach.
  • The Learning Campus offers an environmentally friendly place for lectures, summer camps and other educational activities. Just outside is a vegetable garden for locally grown food and composting.
  • The Nature Center is a living museum of plants and animals from around the Gulf Coast. They organise free beach walks and pier walks and have a range of owls, snakes and turtles for visitors to see.
  • The Lodge is a beachfront Hilton property with award-winning world class eco credentials.
  • Eagle Cottages is one of only 55 properties in the world to make it onto National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World program. This initiative set some rigorous requirements in terms of protecting natural and cultural heritage. While the program has sadly now been discontinued, the achievement remains the same and the inclusion is a real sign that accommodation is taking sustainable tourism seriously.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - 7 pillars for eco approach

Leave No Trace: Zero Waste

You’d think we’d all know this one by now but by the state of any beach or park after an event, it would seem not.

It’s pretty simply. Take all your rubbish home with you or put it in a bin at the place. Bins overflowing? Bring your own bin liner with you. In fact, you can go one step further an actively remove any rubbish or trash you find.

We started this as a way to stay sane when going for walks with our toddler. For those not in the know, toddlers move slowly and become fascinated in every tiny wonder of the world. This can drive adults round the bend unless they occupy themselves with something else. Litter picking was that thing for us. It’s made bearable with long handled litter pickers like these and a hoop to make collecting rubbish easier. It’s surprisingly meditative once you get going and a great conversation starter and ice breaker. Passers by almost always come up to say hello and thank you.

Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

The former doctor within me will always encourage you to avoid sunburn and sun damage. The best way to do this is through hats, protective beach clothing and avoiding the sun at its fiercest. But, you know, where’s the fun in hiding away? Isn’t the point of heading to the beach to enjoy your time outdoors?

Enter sunscreen.

Sadly, chemicals in many popular sunscreens can damage marine life on and around coral reefs.

  • Look for reef safe sunscreen like these products instead.

Sustainable beach tips - share beach toys box on a sandy beach in Alabama

Avoid Plastic with These Sustainable Beach Tips

  • Carry a reusable water bottle like this or get a Big Berkey water filter like this one.
  • Either give up straws altogether or buy a reusable straw like this.
  • Avoid food plastic by buying or bringing snacks like fruit or sandwiches in reusable boxes.
  • Don’t smoke. As if there weren’t enough other good reasons to quit, the cigarette butts have plastic in them which won’t break down.
  • Swap beach toys where possible, like the project above at Gulf Shores, Alabama.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - child looking for bald eagles

Take an Eco Beach Tour Wherever Possible

Nothing beats education when it comes to sustainable travel and, if you ask me, enjoying life and finding it more meaningful!

But education doesn’t have to involve dull and dry lectures stuffed away in a classroom.

Some of the most interesting ways I’ve learned about the benefits of sustainable travel have taken place on the ocean or walking barefoot on white sand.

Seek out eco tours and environmental programmes wherever you can and you’ll be amazed at the wildlife you can find on just about any beach trip.

For example, we’ve taken eco tours:

  • In Gulf Shores in Alabama – the Amazon of the USA, Alabama’s biodiversity is second to none.
  • Skomer Island – the nesting place for puffins and manx shearwater in Wales.
  • The Seychelles – where I learned about the importance of keeping vegetation on sandy beaches.
  • In Sarasota, Florida –  where the world leading MOTE Aquarium runs educational tours across Sarasota Bay.

Sustainable beach tis - learning about turtle hatching - child looking at baby turtles emerging from the sand

Flatten Out Those Sandcastles

OK, after years and years of trying to follow a sustainable travel ethos, there’s still so much to learn. You know those innocent childlike wonders of sandcastles?

Turns out that baby turtles can get stuck in the moats or struggle to clamber over the peaks.

So, if in doubt, flatten them out at the end of the day when it’s time to head home.

Sustainable beach vacation tips - Dune Restoration Project in Alabama

Follow the Rules

I’m firmly of the belief that we don’t have to stop travel in order to make the world sustainable. Travel is good for us after all!

But plenty of rules exist for a reason. In Florida, speed limits for motor boats have brought the population of manatees back from the brink. Numbers climbed from 400 to over 7000.

On Skomer Island in Wales, the population of Manx shearwater has strengthened since visitors were advised to keep on the path (it’s easy to accidentally walk on a nest and crush the eggs otherwise.)

So, whether it’s a speed limit, a request to stay on the beaten path or off the sand dunes, one of the best sustainable beach tips is to follow the rules.

Leave the Resort and Meet People

Sustainable travel is about more than just the environment. If you’re staying in a beach resort, take a moment to think about the wider community. Would it be a good idea to leave the resort and try out some locally run eateries, tours and shops? How about taking a local cooking class? If the answer is yes, do it!

Some of the main problems that result from overtourism happen simply because everyone crams into the same place. Follow these tips on how to get off the beaten path and find a quieter beach to enjoy.

For example, Brits, you don’t only have to visit Florida for some sand and sunshine in the States. Look at these gorgeous photographs we took from the white sand beaches of Alabama. Find out more interesting facts about Alabama here and read our in-depth guide on how to plan a road trip through Alabama here.

Sustainable beach tip - child on we do not see nature with our eyes but with oru understanding and our heart staircase

Use Your Voice. Yes Yours!

You don’t need to hijack a whaling ship or tie yourself to a tree to make an impact. Just the little every day questions can make a difference when you travel. If you ask for a non-plastic alternative, the mere act of asking the question starts to change the way that things are done.

So, use your voice.

Support Beach-Friendly Organisations

Actively seek out organisations that promote, encourage and support sustainable beach development. Organisations like:

  • The FEE and its Blue Flag Awards
  • The National Trust in the UK

Simply Watch the Wildlife

Don’t shout at, touch, feed, poke or otherwise annoy any creatures on the beach. Goes without saying, right? But just make sure that dogs and young children are supervised enough so that they don’t do it either.

Wear Sustainably Made Clothing

Remember: the most sustainably made swimwear is the swimwear you already have. No need to rush out and buy something new. Just when your current swimwear wears out, look for a sustainable fashion brand where possible.

Here are some recommended sustainable fashion brands.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Eagle Cottages bedroom interior with bird theme

Develop Eco-Friendly Hotel Room Habits

  • Turn off the lights every time you leave
  • Separate rubbish into recyclables and food compost (those options aren’t there? Ask for them to be.)
  • Keep doors and windows closed when you have the air conditioning on
  • Opt not to have your towels and bed linen washed every day

Eco-friendly beach toys from BabyWillowCo

Bring Eco-Friendly Beach Toys

Beach toys typically involve a whole load of plastic. And if you already have them or can buy them pre-loved or second hand then all well and good. But if you’re looking at buying brand new toys, then consider these eco-friendly alternatives instead.

  • Beautiful plastic free beach toys like these from Envirotoy
  • Or this biodegradable beach toy kit which you can buy on Amazon
  • Or the whole range of gorgeous bioplastic toys from Dantoy here

Sustainable beach towel woman on beach

Sustainable Beach Towels

Gah, plastic gets everywhere, doesn’t it? It’s even part of microfibre towels. You can get around this with these beautiful sustainable beach towels from InventSports. But again, it’s generally better to use what you already have rather than to buy something new if you don’t need it.

USA - Alabama - Abigail King outside Eagle Cottages in Gulf State Park

Eagle Cottages at Gulf State Park: In Review

Let me spend a little while telling you about Eagle Cottages at Gulf State Park. Because not only are they just so beautiful but what they stand for is beautiful as well. 

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Eagle Cottages bedroom interior with bird theme

First, a quick word about the name. Yes, we did see eagles on a short walking tour from our cottage.

Second, what is it actually like to stay in Eagle Cottages?

Is eco-gorgeous a term? It should be. Think bright light, great views of nature, white paint and earthy tones, along with interior decor to help you learn more about the local area, flora and fauna.

Plus, whoever looks after these properties clearly cares. The details are immaculate, the quality pristine.

The Cottages

Spacious three bedrooms, which interconnect, along with a gorgeous open plan lounge, dining room and kitchen. This is a kitchen you could cook in, with plenty of space and tools for the job.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Bicycles to hire

Surprise Amenities

  • Fire pit. Perfect for smores in good weather.
  • Bicycles. Great for exploring the surrounding park.
  • Walkway over the lake. Simply beautiful.

Although you do have full self-catering facilities within the cottages, an overnight stay at Eagle Cottages also comes with a complimentary cooked breakfast at the nearby restaurant Woodside. They also gifted us a sweet, personalised Christmas stocking with our family name on when we visited in December. Also, keep an eye out for the gift shop there, full of gorgeous Gulf State Park gifts and memorabilia.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - Eagle Cottages Lake Shelby View

Within Gulf State Park itself and just a short drive or medium cycle ride to the beach. The cottages overlook Lake Shelby and are connected to hiking paths within the park.

USA - Alabama - Gulf State Park - child looking for bald eagles

On Your Own

  • Birdwatching
  • Guided Nature Heritage Tour
  • Guided Sustainability Tour
  • Guided Bicycle Tour
  • Guided Birdwatching
  • Glass blowing
  • Pottery class

Sustainable beach vacation tips - sunset view on the beach

A Note About the Weather

We had an unlucky spell of weather when we visited in December, with mist, rain and fog for much of the time we were actually in the cottages. Hence, the lack of views and raindrops in the photos! But, most of this blew off by lunchtime but by then, we were off tracking down Bald eagles and then sitting in a clinic to get covid results for our flight home – a practice that, thankfully, isn’t needed any more. 

So, even if you do experience an unlucky spell of weather in winter here, you’ll still likely have more beautiful views than we did. Just wanted to say!

Eco beach solar panels - Gulf State Park Alabama

Plan Your Own Trip to Alabama

Check out our Alabama Road Trip Itinerary here or else use a tour company, like America As You Like It to organise your trip.

More on Sustainable Travel

Read more sustainable travel tips and articles below:

  • Start here: how to be a responsible tourist
  • Is dark tourism ethical? What you need to know.
  • Get inspired by this collection of the best sustainable travel blogs.
  • 9 powerful benefits of sustainable tourism (and why you should care)
  • The unmistakable emotional meaning of home
  • Why you need to know about the cork trees in Portugal
  • The importance of doing nothing
  • How to find the most ethical travel destinations

Disclosure: If you book or buy through any of the affiliate links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Also, I travelled to Alabama as a guest of the Alabama tourist board. However, as ever, as always, I kept the right to write what I like. Otherwise, what is the point?!

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Let's Roam Explorer

30 Awesome and Affordable Tourist Activities: See More for Less

At Let’s Roam, we know travel, and we know how to do it affordably! Check out these awesome tourist activities that can be done on a shoestring budget.

be tourist friendly

The perfect vacation can put a strain on the wallet. The flight and accommodations alone can cost a fortune, and that’s before you even do anything! Popular tourist attractions usually have high price tags too. With inflation rising and prices on everything going up, it might take a bit of ingenuity to keep this year’s summer vacation within the budget. In some of our recent travel guides, we have given you tons of budget tips on inexpensive destinations and booking the cheapest vacation rental. In this guide, we have lined up all the best budget-friendly tourist attractions. We have focused on activities that you can book almost anywhere in the world, and usually at a reasonable price. Let’s Roam!

30 Budget-Friendly Tourist Activities

1. let’s roam scavenger hunts.

We might be a bit biased, but we know a thing or two about scavenger hunts ! We have developed interactive walking tours for almost every major city in the United States and several international ones too! Our hunts are expertly designed to be informative and exciting. The process is simple too. You download our adventure app or search our website for your city of choice. Pick your scavenger hunt. Buy a ticket for each member of your group, and set out on a friendly competition. Our hunts are filled with tough trivia and hilarious photo challenges that are sure to create a memorable experience for you and your crew.

Right now, single hunts start at just $12 per person, or, for a better deal, you can buy a monthly pass for up to five friends for $19.99. The great part about our hunts is that you can participate any time! Buy your tickets today. If it rains, no problem! Do the hunt tomorrow instead. Our hunts are super flexible, budget-friendly, and tons of fun! Whether you are taking an international trip or having a staycation in your own city this year, download our app today and see your favorite places in a whole new way.

Also, check out the new “Local Guide” portion of our app where we list and rate the best sights to see in each city! Find the best restaurants, tourist activities, and historic sights with explanations for why you should visit.

2. City Passes

All the great tourist cities of the world have a city pass of some sort, or maybe multiple ones. These combination passes include admission to all the major tourist sites. They also usually have a skip-the-line feature and may include coupons for restaurants or free public transit as well. For instance, if you are visiting a city like Rome, you are going to want to see all the historic sights. The Roma Pass will get you into everything, get you public transit, and allow you to skip the lines for one reasonable price. It not only will save you money, but these passes also save you time and stress. Paris has a pass. Turkey has a museum pass that covers the whole country. If you are planning to travel to a major tourist site this year, then do a quick Google search and compare the pass options.

Pro Tip: Make a list of the sights that are must-see for you. Then add a couple of “maybes.” Add up the price and compare it to the price of the pass. Generally, a pass is worth the cost if you plan to see more than 3 sights, but it depends on the city.

3. Free Museum Days

Most major museums have free days. Sometimes it is the last Thursday of the month. Sometimes it is every Tuesday. Every museum (and city) is different. Museums are a great item to add to your vacation itinerary. They are not only educational and interesting, but they also provide shelter from the rain or immense heat.

Even major sites like the Tower of London have cheats. You can book a free ticket for the nightly Ceremony of the Keys and see parts of the Tower complex for free while enjoying an ancient ceremony. Look on city forums and travel sights. Most of them have a list of free or cheap opportunities.

Pro Tip: Unless you are a major history buff, there are many sites that you just look at for free without entering, and you won’t miss anything! For instance, the Eiffel Tower is just as impressive from the free viewing area near the river as it is to pay to go inside. The same goes for the St. Louis Gateway Arch. If it is on your bucket list, then certainly do it, but some things are just as good from the free zone!

4. Scooter City Tours

The best way to explore a new city is on foot. If walking isn’t your thing, then a scooter is the next best bet! Most major cities in the world now have scooter and bicycle share programs. You download the app. You scan the code at pickup. Take your scooter or bike. Roam the city and see all the sights. Turn in your scooter at the closest parking spot when you are done. It’s basically a self-lead walking tour but with a bit of spunk!

5. Rent a Real Scooter

You likely have some sort of day trip on your itinerary. Rental cars can be expensive and pain in the butt though! A better budget-friendly option for exploring islands or beach towns is to rent an actual scooter. For just a few dollars a day, you can score an electric or gas scooter and explore the countryside around your holiday base camp. They are perfect for perusing the hill cities of Italy, the wine country of Napa Valley, or the quaint villages of Romania. You can get outside the city, feel the wind in your hair, and visit places that you wouldn’t be able to on foot. Plus, it will only cost you a few bucks!

6. Take a Hike

Hiking is one of our favorite travel pastimes. Not only do you get to explore a new place, but generally, hiking trails are free. Travel can also be pretty stressful, especially when everything doesn’t go as planned. Escaping to a quiet trail in the mountains is the perfect remedy!

7. Adventure Book

Take your family on unforgettable adventures whenever you want with Adventures From Scratch: Family Edition . Our adventure book is loaded with memorable activities that are not only entertaining but also focus on family bonding. There are over 50 scratch-off mystery challenges to attack together. Plus, we include journal spaces, tear-off challenges, and conversation starters. Our experts worked tirelessly to create adventures that are fun for the whole family and creative, yet easy to accomplish!

Our Adventure Books can be utilized in two ways. Use it at the base for your staycation. Simply scratch off one of the ”Explore” activities and go! Alternatively, pack it away in your luggage and pull it out during dull moments on your road trip. Either way, we know you are going to love it!

8. Free City Walking Tours

One of the best ways to see a city is with a local guide. Private guides can be cheap, or they can be really expensive. It depends on the location. However, many of the world’s best cities have free walking tours that are usually led by history students or docents from local museums. They are generally very knowledgeable and fun! You can take themed tours as well. Some focus on food, others on historic sites or a famous person from the city. They are easy to find with a quick Google search.

9. Small Wineries and Breweries Tours

Small winery tasting rooms and breweries all over the world offer free tastings and short tours of their facilities. For instance, Vincent Arroyo Winery in Napa Valley offers free tastings for groups of less than four. Naxos is famous for Kitron, made in one tiny brewery in the center of the island, and they will let you tour the facility and taste the brew for free. In Cozumel, there is a tequila brewery in the Punta Sur Eco Park that offers a wonderful overview of the tequila-making process and provides tons of free samples. Wahoo for free brew!

10. Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours

These fun tours allow you to see the major sights of a city by hopping on and off of routinely running tour buses. The double-deckers usually feature a recorded audio guide or a live commentator. They are a great way to see the city, especially for those who cannot spend hours walking. They give great information on historic landmarks and pertinent history and hit all the major spots.

Pro Tip: To get really cheap, look at the local public bus maps. In many cities, you can buy a single bus ticket that lasts up to 90 mins, and you can hop off and on the bus as many times as you want in that time frame. Some city buses follow the same route as the more expensive tourist buses. For instance, you can see all the top attractions in Paris, France by hopping on and off the number 42 bus.

Extra Tip: This little public transit tip also works for the ferry in NYC. There‘s no need to book expensive tours to see Lady Liberty. Just hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free. The same goes in Venice. Don’t book an expensive gondola ride. Hop on the Vaporettos that zip all around the grand canal instead.

11. Operas or Symphonies

It is quite easy to score a same-day ticket to an opera or symphony anywhere in the world for a few dollars. Most of the old, grand theatres don’t really have a bad seat, so you can book the cheapest ticket, and see an incredible show, for next to nothing. Just make sure that your seat doesn’t say “obstructed view,” as this usually means there is a structural pole between you and the stage. It might sound boring, but doing something out of the norm can be really fun! Give it a shot.

12. Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens and flower fields are stunning and relaxing! They are the perfect place to stroll for an hour or two after a busy morning of sightseeing. Plus, they are usually a budget-friendly endeavor. You can visit dozens of lavender fields in Washington’s Sequim Valley for absolutely free.

13. City Parks

The outdoor gathering spaces of Europe and Central America are where you will find all the locals in the evening, and if it is good enough for them, it’s good enough for us. They often feature playgrounds for kids, fantastic flower gardens, gorgeous fountains, and pedestrian lanes. Some even have full-on sculpture parks. Grab a gelato, and join in the passeggiata in Italy, the paseo in Spain, or the dander in Great Britain. You will meet people, enjoy the outdoors, and maybe even join the old fellas for a game of backgammon in the park.

14. Art Walk

Modern Art museums should be on your vacation itinerary, but they aren’t always budget-friendly. Instead, line up a walking tour of the urban mural in the area. Many cities offer guided tours or check out our urban art walks. We have street art hunts in tons of cities all over the world!

15. Snorkeling

If your vacation includes a beach or large lake, then pack the snorkel gear. Organized snorkel tours are among the most budget-friendly travel activities. You can book a full day with lunch included, or just a few hours out on the water. They usually include all the gear and lifejackets. Plus, you get a nice boat ride along the way.

16. Visit the Great Cathedrals

Due to the nature of their existence and who they were built for, cathedrals of the world are not only some of the most gorgeous architecture on the planet, but they are also usually free to visit. Some cathedrals charge a nominal fee for upkeep, or you can donate at the door. These gorgeous buildings showcase art from the masters that you would spend $30-40 to see in a major art museum. It‘s an added benefit to the cathedral itself. Many also have a crypt or museum with incredible artifacts that are free or charge a small fee. If you are going to New York City, make sure to take the free tour of the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral!

17. Free Shows

When you exit the cathedrals, pay attention to sign boards. Many will have free choir or organ concerts during the week. Always check for free shows in the parks and public buildings. For instance, London has lunch concerts at Saint Martin in the Fields almost daily. Plus, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is free to watch. Even the great Westminster Abbey has free organ recitals most Sundays. Bars across NYC and Chicago have free shows ranging from broadway stars to comedy shows, and they are often included in the bar cover fee.

18. Farmer’s Markets

Farmer’s markets have taken the travel world by storm. They are an excellent place to get fresh, local food and meet local people. However, they are so much more than that. Many now include orchards, fields of wildflowers, vintage games for kids and adults, and even amusement park-styled rides.

19. National Parks

National Parks in North America are some of our greatest tourist attractions. The Sequoias, the Redwoods, The Grand Canyon, Yosemite…our great nation is filled with epic landscapes. Snag the America the Beautiful Pass. It cost $80, but it covers all national parks and federal recreation areas. You only need one pass per vehicle, so most families can travel on one pass, and it lasts for a full year.

20. Cable Cars

Cable cars of funiculars are popular tourist attractions that usually have a small price tag. The famous San Francisco cable cars cost around $8 per ride. The gorgeous Anacapri chair lift on Capri Island, Italy cost around $12, and you can get a guided cable car tour in La Paz, Bolivia for $8.

21. Cafe Hopping

If you are a solo traveler or a couple, consider spending your afternoon at some of Europe’s romantic cafes. Cafe culture is huge, and they are the best place to sip a lovely espresso or Aperol Spritz and watch the world go by. People watching is an attraction all in itself!

22. Visit Your State Parks

State parks are almost always free to visit or have a very nominal fee. Depending on what state you live in, your state park may have fishing, hiking, Native American historical sites, Pacific Ocean beaches, planetariums, or waterfalls. Get out there and explore!

23. Hire a Local Guide

We have found that hiring a local guide can be a really economical way to tour a new place, especially in Central America. Local guides can be found easily by word of mouth or even by Facebook inquiries. Join a few groups for the destination you are traveling to and put out a message for the type of tour you are looking for. You will get great responses and options. Some will be professionals that charge too much, but others will suggest true local people who give tours in their free time. These can not only be a fantastic opportunity for you, but you’re helping a local financially too!

24. Waterfalls

There are incredible free waterfalls all over the world. You can see them from epic hikes or just by pulling over on the side of the road. While waterfall parks in Costa Rica and similar destinations can be outrageous, you can also head to the countryside in your rental car and hit up Los Churros Falls. It’s a set of giant twin waterfalls that only the locals frequent, where you can swim and play freely, and it won’t cost you a penny. You can even cliff jump from the pillar rocks into a deep refreshing pool! Arkansas’s Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls is free. Famous Multnomah Falls in Oregon costs just $2, and the stunning Akaka Falls in Hawaii is just $5 for two epic waterfalls.

25. Picnics

Stopping by the butcher, the baker, and the cheese maker fills your morning with culture and fine foods. Then, you scope out a park near the river and spend the afternoon playing chess, frisbee, or bocce ball with the locals. You get authentic food and experience for the lowest of low costs!

26. Sunset Vistas

Find a place high in the sky to watch the sunrise or sunset. This could be a hike, but it doesn’t have to be. In Athens, view from the top of Mars Hill or Philopappos, right in the middle of the city. Hop on the New York City Highline, or climb to the top of Galata Tower in Istanbul. Wherever you are on earth, ask around the best sunset spot, and make a point to be there!

27. Stargazing

Similar to sunsets, stargazing doesn’t cost a thing! Find an empty field away from city lights, and practice your night photography. Bring a blanket and a bottle of wine, and see how many constellations you can find! It’s relaxing, provides great conversation in a romantic environment, and it’s totally free.

28. Find a Festival

Towns, villages, and cities across the globe throw annual festivals for their citizens, and they are often free of charge. Plovdiv, Bulgaria throws a free music and food festival. All the food trucks come out. There are traditional dancers and rock musicians, and it is all free. The same city has free traditional dancing every Sunday in the city square. This is only one example. There are tons of them. The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in California is free. The French Quarter Festival in New Orleans- free, The Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.- free , and The Spirit of Kentucky Balloon Festival- free! You get the picture.

29. Catch a Local Sporting Event

Book the cheap seats at a local futbol match or rugby game. You will certainly meet the locals, learn a lot about a new game, and engage in some of the finest people-watching on the planet. There is nothing that entertaining than sports fans in their element. Depending on where you are, you might learn a few new chants or taunts, peppy theme songs, or innovative curse words. No matter where you are, you will have a blast. Grab a beer and enjoy the show!

30. Ziplines

If you are looking for an adventure activity, then ziplining is by far your cheapest option. Skydiving, bungee jumping, and paragliding can rack up big bills, but zip lines are generally more reasonable. Plus, they are more family-friendly with appropriate runs for even small children. Sometimes they are a single Superman run. Other destinations have an entire adventure park with multiple runs. You can zipline over the jungles of Belize or zoom through the cloud forests of Costa Rica. The world’s longest line, Jebel Jais Flight , takes you on a 1.76-mile journey over the desert of The United Arab Emirates. Ziplines and ropes courses and extremely popular all over the world, so find one in your vacation destination…if you dare!

Book your tickets!

Holidaymakers often feel they need a stacked itinerary, every slot filled with a life-changing activity, to get the most out of their vacation. That just isn‘t true. Vacation doesn’t have to cost you a fortune! With prior planning and thorough research, you can find good deals on those must-see adventures. There are things that you should see, even if they aren‘t cheap. Some things are famous for a reason! See those things, but then, fill in your itinerary with free or budget-friendly adventures. You may find that a free adventure is one of the most memorable of your trip. It wouldn’t surprise us at all.

What are your favorite budget-friendly vacation activities? Let us know your secrets in the comments!

Need a cheap vaca with your boo? Check out our guide to “The Best Vacation Destinations for Couples on a Budget.”

Let’s not leave out the families though, here are our suggestions for “The 25 Best Budget-Friendly Family Vacation Spots.”

Looking for local attractions? Boost the fun factor of your staycations or vacations with Let’s Roam Local ! Rely on our recommendations to find the top spots in any city!

Frequently Asked Questions

Adventures don’t have to be expensive! Some popular tourist activities are notoriously budget-friendly. Take a free walking tour of a historic city. Take a snorkeling or zip-lining trip, or visit free museums and cathedrals.

For a cheap way to explore your destination, consider a scavenger hunt tour . Download the Let’s Roam app and go looking for awesome street art, local haunts , or historic spots. If you’re into the nightlife scene, try a pub crawl !

Most popular destinations have free and low-cost activities for travelers. Try a free city walking tour, attend a museum on its free day, or catch a local festival!

Featured Products & Activities

Best Countries For Tourism in the World

Here is the list of 79 best countries for tourism in the world, 1. india - the land of diversity.

India - The Land of Diversity

Situated in South Asia, India is a country with deep cultural roots and a rich heritage. A great country for budget travel, India is popular for its forts and palaces. You can visit India to find yourself through yoga, to lose yourself in the mountains of Himalayas, to be mesmerised by the ancient temples. The crowded bazaars, blaring traffic, filmy music, the colour, the noise and not to forget, the chaos will leave you all amazed and overwhelmed. Best Time : December - March

2. Thailand - The Gateway to Southeast Asia.

Thailand - The Gateway to Southeast Asia.

Thailand, a dreamy beachside paradise, is a country that has managed to retain its cultural integrity in spite of being a major tourist destination. One can find everything here - from pristine beaches to dense forests, ancient monasteries to coral reefs, from Buddhist monks to floating markets and finally the fragrant and rich food to treat your taste buds. Best Time : November - March

3. Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven For Honeymooners

Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven For Honeymooners

Known For : Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Diving in Maldives Snorkelling in Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelagic state situated in the Indian Ocean known for its luxurious water villas. A tropical haven of white sand beaches, the Maldives is located in the south of Sri Lanka and is ideal for an adventure, honeymoon, or leisure holiday. Imagine having a room on a pier jutting out from the shore with a glass floor under which manta rays and reef sharks can be seen swimming, and step out from your overwater bungalow to the view of turquoise water.

Best Time: December to April

103 Maldives Attractions

4. Singapore - The Quintessential Cosmopolitan

Singapore - The Quintessential Cosmopolitan

Known For : Gardens by the Bay Sentosa Island Universal Studios Singapore

Best described as a microcosm of modern Asia, Singapore is a melting pot of culture and history, and an extravaganza of culinary delights. Officially known as the Republic of Singapore, it is both a city and a country located in Southeast Asia. One of Asia's most visited destinations, Singapore is best described as an amalgam of a fast-paced life and an off-the-back-street inheritance.

Best Time: January to November

270 Singapore Attractions

Vietnam

Vietnam in south-eastern Asia is arguably one of the most beautiful countries on the continent. Known for its natural beauty and abundance of natural attractions such as the vast paddy fields, limestone islands in Halong Bay or the massive cave system in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, the country provides quite an unmatched experience. Add to that the ever-delightful authentic Vietnamese cuisine which is fast gaining popularity around the world and you have a wholesome experience like no other. Best Time : Spring (February to April) and Autumn (August to October)

6. Sri Lanka - A Land Like No Other

Sri Lanka - A Land Like No Other

Sri Lanka is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean known for its spectacular beaches, thousand-year-old Buddhist temples, an abundance of wildlife, and rich archaeological history. The plethora of water sports, breathtaking sunsets, sprawling tea gardens and of course, mouth-watering Sri Lankan food, are sure to make you fall in love with this gorgeous place.  Best Time : December - April

7. Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius, or the Republic of Mauritius, is a multi-cultural island nation located about 2,000 kilometres from Africa in the Indian Ocean and southeast of Seychelles. With palm-fringed beaches, aquamarine waters, imposing mountains and lush national parks, Mauritius is popular for a honeymoon as well as family holidays.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

8. Indonesia - Where Culture Meets Nature

Indonesia - Where Culture Meets Nature

Indonesia is a kaleidoscope of taste, sight, sound, and smells bottled up in the world's largest archipelago. Spread out over a mind-boggling 17,000 islands, the country offers a vast melange of experiences begging to be sampled by visitors from across the world. Ranging from the smouldering volcanoes of central Java to the verdant expanses of Bali's rice terraces, from Jakarta's sprawling luxury malls to the untouched marine biosphere of Rajah Ampat and the lush rainforests of Borneo, Indonesia is ripe for adventure for the eager tourist.  Best Time : April - September

9. New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand lies to the southwest of the Pacific Ocean and promises breathtaking landscapes adorned with picturesque coastlines and the mightiest mountains. One of New Zealand's highlights is its opportunities for adventure activities as well as its nice blend of museums, art galleries and heritage sites. Best Time : December - February

10. Bhutan - The Happiest Country in All of Asia

Bhutan - The Happiest Country in All of Asia

The ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ – Bhutan nestles in the mountainous regions of the Eastern Himalayas and is one of the cleanest countries in the South Asian territory. A remote kingdom that still clings to its Buddhist culture but embraces modernisation, Bhutan is a land with monasteries, traditional architecture, beautiful valleys, snow-clad mountain views and lush greenery. Being landlocked, the country enjoys a significant tourist influx from its neighbours, Tibet and India. Best Time : March to May, September to November

11. Australia - Land Down Under

Australia - Land Down Under

Home to the Great Barrier Reef and iconic beaches and surf spots, Australia is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and lovers of beach getaways. Popularly known as the land of Kangaroos, Australia is both the smallest continent and the largest island country in the world. An evergrowing multicultural marvel, the country is famous for its beautiful blend of cosmopolitan cities, wild and enchanting outbacks, thriving wildlife and mesmerising beaches along the eastern coast. Best Time : Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

12. Malaysia - Truly Asia

Malaysia - Truly Asia

A potpourri of all things Asian, Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia. An intriguing blend of diverse wildlife, idyllic islands, magnanimous mountains, rainforests, and rich culinary landscape makes it one of the most visited tourist places in Asia.  Best Time : December - March

13. Nepal - On Top of the World

Nepal - On Top of the World

A hub for the adventure-lovers and home to Mt. Everest, the world's tallest peak, Nepal is a Himalayan country sandwiched between India and China. The mighty snow-capped mountains here such as Annapurna, Mount Everest, Manaslu, and Kanchenjunga are home to some of the best trekking trails in the world. It is also a major religious hub with its many pilgrimage sites for the followers of Buddhism and Hinduism like the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath Stupa. To make things better, the crime rates are very low, making it a very safe travel destination. Best Time : September - Late November

14. Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

Seychelles is an island nation, located in the Indian Ocean close to the east of Africa. Known for its breathtaking beauty, It is an archipelago of 115 islands, 45 of which are granitic islands, while 74 are coralline islands. Its capital and largest city is Victoria. Popular as the island of love, Seychelles’ surreal beauty makes it a popular luxurious honeymoon destination. The most visited islands of Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

15. United Arab Emirates - The Centre of Culture and Modernity

United Arab Emirates - The Centre of Culture and Modernity

Once known for its fishing-based economy, today, UAE is much more than vast deserts and ancient forts. Immersed in its rich Emirati culture, the UAE is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world offering touches of modernity with its ever-expanding infrastructure. From its traditional souks to palm-shaped islands, glittering huge malls, luxurious hotels, grand architecture and theme parks, the country offers you a complete package to relax, rejuvenate and be adventurous, all at the same time. Best Time : October - April (Winters)

16. Turkey - A Land of Culture with Modern Twist

Turkey - A Land of Culture with Modern Twist

Settled on the border of Asia and Europe, Turkey is an archive of Islamic Middle East impact and the influence of Christian European West. Turkey at present represents a modern and westernised culture that exists along with its more exotic and esoteric side hidden from outside world. Explore the dual sides of the country with the natural panoramic landscape, historic places, fertile valleys, huge mountain ranges, rugged coastline and quaint villages.  Best Time : April - June (Spring) and October - November (Autumn)

17. Jordan - The Land of Mesmerizing Beauty

Jordan - The Land of Mesmerizing Beauty

Also known as the 'Lawrence of Arabia', Jordan is a spectacle of a destination. Jordan is packed with grand structures and hints of old civilisations. Petra, a city in Jordan, is said to be over 2000 years old. Apart from the old civilisations, another important aspect is the biblical evolution of the society that is evident in some of its structures. Hospitality is a very important part of the culture and thus, everywhere you go, you will receive a very warm welcome. Best Time : March-May and Mid-September to Mid-November

18. Philippines - Gateway to hidden beaches and exotic islands

Philippines - Gateway to hidden beaches and exotic islands

The Philippines is a nation studded with a myriad of islands in south-east Asia. It is home to many fantastic beaches, coral reefs and churches. It is also a very popular tourist destination offering plenty of options for tourists regarding nature, wildlife, adventure, entertainment and nightlife. The people are very warm and affable, and they will not hesitate to go an extra mile to see a smile on your face. Best Time : November - April

Qatar

In just forty years, this Gulf state has grown from one of the poorest countries in the Gulf to the richest in the world. Mainly functioning on oil and natural gas revenue, Qatar is developing at breakneck speed, and everything from universities to shopping malls, 5-star hotels to football stadiums (in preparation for the 2022 World Cup) are springing up along the desert floor. Best Time : October-December

20. Cambodia - A Country Rich in Heritage & Natural Beauty

Cambodia - A Country Rich in Heritage & Natural Beauty

Cambodia is a country steeped in history. In spite of years and years of struggle, the country has emerged today as a nation with an infectious spirit seen in its people and a tourism business that is flourishing. Home of the famous Angkor Wat and numerous other temples, this country is intoxicating in its beauty, to say the least. Apart from the historical and the cultural, Cambodia is also urbane, boasting of beautiful Phnom Penh, its capital, and tonnes of restaurants serving delicious cuisine.  Best Time : November - January

21. Greece - All-Time Classic

Greece - All-Time Classic

Surrounded by crystal blue waters all around, Greece has 2000 islands among which only 160 are inhabited. It has everything that a traveller could ask for, starting from history and culture, huge mountains, golden beaches and ancient ruins. Along with the history, the culture in music, food and festivals is strongly held up high here. One can delve into the ancient times with splendours like Acropolis and Parthenon . Best Time : March - April (Spring) and September - October (Autumn)

22. Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Known For : Victoria Harbour A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong, officially known as the Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China is a burst of culture and colour. Housing 18 districts, Hong Kong is one of the most heavily populous regions in the world and the city with the most number of skyscrapers in the world. A major port and shopping hub, Hong Kong is the land of an iconic skyline, delectable cuisine, and protected lush nature reserves. Best Time : October to early December (Autumn)

Best Time: October to December (Autumn)

337 Hong Kong Attractions

23. Oman - Gateway to the Charming Arab World

Oman - Gateway to the Charming Arab World

Oman is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Though there is no diversity in religion here, you will find a variety of tranquil landscapes and sceneries. The beauty of the emerald beaches, the rich Arab history in the ancient forts, the lush green mountains, unique wildlife and endless deserts will give you an Arabian adventure unlike any other country in the Gulf Coast. Best Time : November-February

Kenya

Kenya is located along the eastern coast of the African continent. It is a large country that is a hotbed for tourists. Although it is largely known for its safaris, there is also a lot more to Kenya, such as Nairobi, which is its commercial capital. Wildlife, heritage sites, highlands and valleys -- the country truly has it all. Best Time : Late June to October

25. Saudi Arabia - Hub of Temples and Mosques

Saudi Arabia - Hub of Temples and Mosques

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an Arab country located in Western Asia and constituting most of the Arab Peninsula. Most of the citizens are Muslims, and freedom of religion is restricted by the laws of the country. Only Muslims are respected in the country but, people are very helpful and friendly towards tourists. The rich history, vast stretches of deserts, forts, mosques and temples spread throughout the country will fascinate you. Best Time : November - February

26. Switzerland

Switzerland

Switzerland is a land of stereotypes – expansive greenery, picturesque landscapes, chocolate, cheese, and watches. Switzerland’s lush green vistas are so perfect that they seem to be plucked out of a postcard. It truly is one of the most beautiful places on Earth – soaring Alpine mountains, medieval churches, a bucketful of fresh air, disarming landscapes, and green fields you would endlessly want to run through. It is one of those few places where everything runs on time, the chocolate is fantastic, the countryside is breath-taking and everything is as perfect as a dream! Best Time : Mid-December - Mid October

France

France is an irresistible assortment of picture perfect landscapes, cultural foible, remarkable fashion sense, historical bequest and of course gastronomic adventures. Basking in the glory of Mother Nature, France offers distinct geographical features from rolling countryside and majestic mountains to stunning white sand beaches and sun-drenched vineyards. With its dash of contemporary finesse and lavish lifestyle, this country will leave you in absolute awe. Best Time : March-May and September - November

28. England - Amalgamation of Royalty and Culture

England - Amalgamation of Royalty and Culture

One of the most popular countries in the world, England is located in Europe. It is also the dream destination for a lot of people for its beauty and grandeur. With a great history behind it, it has a rich heritage and culture. The English countryside is one of the most peaceful places in the country. The most famous historical sites include the old castles on the countryside, Roman sites and the royal palaces. Each city in the country has its own charm. Best Time : July - August

29. Germany - The Land of Festivals

Germany - The Land of Festivals

A country of superior intellect and rich culture, Germany offers its travellers a well-rounded experience of beautiful architecture, beautiful countryside, fun-filled festivals and the most brilliant, lip-smacking cuisine. Every time is a good time to visit - be it in Summer/ Spring when the country is blooming and shrouded in colour or Fall/Winter when everything is serene, calm and covered in snow. The air is infectious and always full of anticipation and festivities. Best Time : March to August

30. Scotland - An amalgamation of Culture, Nature and Music

Scotland - An amalgamation of Culture, Nature and Music

Scotland, a part of the UK, is located in northwestern Europe and is one of the most important countries in the continent. When one thinks of Scotland, the chequered kilts and bagpipes come to mind. However, there is a lot more to the country. From the lush green highlands to the coastal blue waters, from fine Scotch whiskies and brilliant food, you can experience all. Scotland also has a long history, and its magnificent castles can vouch for that. Best Time : May - September

Italy

Italy is a country situated in Europe with 20 regions, each having its own glorious history, culture and traditions. It is the place where the Renaissance started and the place which gave the world Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus. The icing on the cake is the delicious food that you get to eat here. Best Time : December - March

32. Croatia

Croatia

Located in Eastern Europe, Croatia is a coastal country that is not only beautiful to look at but also offers a variety of things to do for tourists. There is history interspersed with architecture, great opportunities for swimming, Balkan wine, some of the best seafood and more. The most regularly visited cities here are Dubrovnik and Zagreb, its capital. It also encompasses several islands that are breathtakingly beautiful. In a nutshell, this country offers pretty much everything under the sun for a great vacation. Best Time : April-May; September

Egypt

Egypt is a country that brings to mind the exotic. Beautiful pyramids, mysterious mummies and lots of gold. That is what everybody perceives Egypt as. But it is so much more. There is Cairo, its most famous city, the river Nile, desert adventures, its temples and mosques and the general aura of history rooted in the culture that pervades the entire country. Best Time : September-April

34. United States of America - The Hub of Diversity and Opportunities

United States of America - The Hub of Diversity and Opportunities

Occupying a huge chunk of North America, the United States of America or USA is a Pandora Box full of surprises for all kind of travellers. From crowded mega-cities to serene small towns, breathtaking natural beauty, man-made wonders, and fast-paced, exciting and ever-changing environs, the country will leave anyone awe-inspired with its vividness. Best Time : March-May; September - November

35. Morocco - The Exotic Land of Spices & Stories

Morocco - The Exotic Land of Spices & Stories

Morocco is a country in North Africa. It is blessed with abundant natural beauty and is one of the top destinations for tourism. Majestic mountains standing tall in the distance, cities that are ancient, sprawling deserts and more characterise this country. Famous attractions here include the medina in Marrakesh, the Fort Kasbah of the Udayas, the dozens of souks and the Jemaa el-Fnaa. It is a truly beautiful country, with lots to offer to every kind of tourist. Best Time : March-May

36. Malta - The Island of Legends

Malta - The Island of Legends

Known For : Upper Barrakka Gardens HMS Maori Lascaris War Rooms

The island state of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea and falls south of the Italian island of Sicily. Temples, fortresses, sandy beaches, cliffs, and jutted coves is what makes this small island nation worth visiting, coupled with thrilling activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and a long and fascinating history going back to the days before Christ.

Best Time: April to June

21 Malta Attractions

37. Austria - The Land of Music and Arts

Austria - The Land of Music and Arts

Basking in the glory of natural beauty, Austria is one of the most prominent attractions of central Europe. Rooted in its deep imperial culture, the country offers much more beyond the scenic beauty including neo-classical architecture, the craze for music, popular cafes, and the thrill of sports like skiing. From the rustic backdrops to colourful mismatched houses, Austria is a place to relax, savour and appreciate the culture of the country of many years of making. Best Time : June-August, September and October

38. Netherlands - The Land of Tulips

Netherlands - The Land of Tulips

Amongst one of the most developed and progressive nations of the world, the Netherlands offers an immersive and enriching travelling experience. With the most exquisite flowers blooming in the summer, refreshing showers in the fall, snowfall and nostalgia in the winter and the most colourful landscapes in the spring, the Netherlands has something to offer to everyone. From markets to gardens to the most absurd museums and shops, this country gives a 360-degree experience to its tourists, of a culture and lifestyle so diverse that it always stays with the traveller. Best Time : Spring and Autumn

39. Laos - The Land of Serenity and Bountiful Nature

Laos - The Land of Serenity and Bountiful Nature

Sitting cosily in Southeast Asia, the Republic of Laos is a landlocked country with a sparse population. Known for its spectacular landscape, the country comprises lofty mountains, lush jungles, glistening rice fields and tea leaves covering the mountain surface. The remote tribal villages, ancient Buddhist caves, rich cultural heritage, cafe culture in cosmopolitans, elegant colonial architecture and peaceful stupas add to the charm of this land of lotus-eaters. Best Time : November - February

40. Japan - Home To Great Architecture & Great Food

Japan - Home To Great Architecture & Great Food

Japan, located in Eastern Asia, is a sovereign nation. It is well known for its bustling cities, imperial palaces, national parks and lots of beautifully constructed temples. Tokyo, the capital of the country, is a much-visited tourist destination, home to tonnes of skyscrapers. There is a lot to do in Japan, from adventure sports to relaxing at the beach and discovering the real beauty of Japanese architecture. Best Time : March-May

41. South Africa - Where Natural Beauty Abounds

South Africa - Where Natural Beauty Abounds

South Africa is a country that is as well known for its wildlife and safaris as it is for its beaches and Winelands. It has been given the name of 'Rainbow Country', as it is very culturally diverse. South Africa has a lot of big, popular cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, which in turn have a lot to offer to tourists. It shares its northern borders with countries like Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The country has also been listed as one of the most megadiverse nations in the world, regarding its biodiversity. Best Time : May - September

42. Czech Republic - The Land of Art, Music and Beer

Czech Republic - The Land of Art, Music and Beer

The Czech Republic is a small country with a big package, offering something for its every visitor. Evolved as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, this country exhibits its enriched culture through its magnificent castles, museums, cathedrals, medieval towns and lying at its heart, the culture-crammed capital city, Prague. Often tagged as 'city of a thousand spires', Prague is adorned with incredible architecture, rustic cobblestone streets, noteworthy churches and medieval bridges. The city is also a haunt for night birds, offering fine dining, old breweries, zesty jazz clubs and buzzing markets. Best Time : May - October

43. Bahrain - Concoction of liberalism, diversity and prosperity

Bahrain - Concoction of liberalism, diversity and prosperity

Known For : Arad Fort Reef Island Al-Khamis Mosque

The Kingdom of Bahrain is a Middle-Eastern island nation, an archipelago of thirty-three islands bordering Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This desert island is a diverse society that brings immigrants from all the other six continents to live together harmoniously, boasting of a high standard of living and development, with sky-kissing million dollar buildings as well as two artificial islands. It is known for its petroleum reserves, offshore banking and tourism. Bahrain's biggest yearly event - Bahrain Grand Prix F1 race is held in the month of April each year. Best Time : February to April and October to December

Best Time: December to March

25 Bahrain Attractions

44. Brazil - Living the Carnival life

Brazil - Living the Carnival life

Brazil, the largest country in Latin America and the fifth largest country in the world is a land of great diversity, be it in culture, geography or ecosystems. From the wilderness of the great Amazon rainforests and sun-kissed tropical beaches to the Grand Carnival celebration in Rio, the country has it all. Visit the colonial-era towns in the state of Minas Gerais, blend in the culture of Bahia or visit the futuristic capital city of Brasilia. The plethora of options available in the country actually encapsulates the visitors in their charm. Best Time : November-March; June-September

45. Israel - Where the History Comes Alive

Israel - Where the History Comes Alive

Israel is considered a Holy nation bordered by Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. It is also home to Jerusalem ( the birthplace of Lord Jesus). It has a vibrant history and culture. It has ties to diversified religions, and this makes it an interesting place to visit for travellers. It is also a highly modernised country, and the regions are divided into cities which are further sub-divided into towns.  Best Time : December - April

46. Belgium - French and German Cultures Amalgamated

Belgium - French and German Cultures Amalgamated

Chocolates, beer, laces and porcelain are what you think of when you hear Belgium. All of this holds true, but there is a lot more to explore in this small country. Rich in art and culture, Belgium has a fine heritage with many monuments in various cities of the country. Being the centre of EU and NATO, the country holds a lot of prominence among other countries. From long beaches in the north to the highlands in the south, the country offers you everything. Best Time : Mid-April to Mid-October

47. Bahamas - An Ocean of Gorgeous Landscapes

Bahamas - An Ocean of Gorgeous Landscapes

Known For : Grand Bahamas Paradise Island Bimini Island

The Bahamas offers over 700 islands waiting for visitors to explore. It is considered to be one of the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. This Paradise of beaches is located 50 miles off the east coast of Florida and is heaven for beach lovers. The Bahamas provides the quintessential island experience, gorgeous beaches and numerous tours and activities. The breathtaking scenery and pleasant weather are one of the few reasons to plan a vacation to the Bahamas.  Best Time : December-February

Best Time: Anytime except the month of September

11 Bahamas Attractions

48. Kuwait - A Wonderful Mix of The Ancient & The Modern

Kuwait - A Wonderful Mix of The Ancient & The Modern

Located at the top of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is a country that has often been well-known for being rich in oil. Its neighbouring countries include Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq. Kuwait City is the capital of the country and is famous for its modern architecture. Kuwait includes modern-day skyscrapers as well as ancient, beautifully built mosques, so it truly is a mix of modernity and ancient times. Best Time : November - April

49. Spain - An explorer's paradise

Spain - An explorer's paradise

With amazing beaches and super fun nightlife, Spain is considered to be one of the most exotic countries in Europe. It is not just known for its beaches, but also its snowy mountains and deserts. The country is historically rich with the third rank in the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. It is also famous for the numerous festivals taking place. Spain is also architecturally marvellous with Islamic, Catholic and Renaissance architectural designs. Best Time : Spring and Fall are the Best Seasons to Visit Spain

50. Canada - The Epitome of Ethnic Diversity

Canada - The Epitome of Ethnic Diversity

Canada is the second largest country in the world, and it continues to attract tourists with its diversity, hospitality and magnetic. beauty. Whether you are a daredevil or a nature lover, Canada has something for everyone. It is considered to be one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. Blessed with all of its natural attractions, it is the ideal place for fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, etc. making it every adventurer's paradise.  Best Time : March-May and September - November

51. Lebanon

Lebanon

Lebanon lies in the Middle East and is a sovereign. It is often called the Lebanese Republic. It shares its borders with countries like Syria, Israel and Cyprus. Lebanon is actually supposed to be the smallest country in the entire continent of Asia. It has a wonderful coastline that you can never get tired of and even boasts of a popular city - fashionable Beirut. Lebanon is home to a cuisine that we have all sampled at some point, in several different versions - Lebanese cuisine.  Best Time : June - September

52. Ireland - The Mythical Island of Europe

Ireland   - The Mythical Island of Europe

Located in northwestern Europe, the island of Ireland is famous for its ancient rocks and great legends. Apart from the natural beauty of the beaches, lakes, mountains and limestone deserts, the country is also known for its numerous festivals. It is also known as the Emerald Isle as it is rich in poetry, prose, painting as well as tourist literature. With proper warmth and hospitality, Ireland is very popular among tourists. Best Time : Summer (June-September)

53. Hungary - A fusion of traditional and modern Europe

Hungary - A fusion of traditional and modern Europe

Currently among the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, Hungary offers a unique amalgamation of traditional European culture and modern-day practices. Here, you can take a trip through quaint, rural villages and enjoy a thriving nightlife in Budapest, both within a distance of a few miles. With a capital city regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, Hungary is home to several World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves and the second largest thermal lake in the world.  Best Time : April - September

54. Tanzania - The Canvas of Natural Beauty

Tanzania - The Canvas of Natural Beauty

Tanzania is one of the most ethnically, linguistically, and religiously diverse country in Africa. The people of Tanzania with their smiling faces and infectious spirits would give you a warm welcome. Tanzania continues to attract people with its beautiful ebony carvings and marvellous textiles. This country is the proud owner of Africa's tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro. Tanzania proudly flaunts its natural beauty whether it's the animals, the landscapes, the beaches or its coral reefs. Best Time : July-October, December-March

55. Portugal

Portugal

With a rich culture, eccentric cities and an exquisite countryside, Portugal is among the best value destinations in Europe. The landscape is exceedingly diverse as one can see it changing as they travel from green mountains in the North to rocky cliffs and waterfalls in the Centre to the desert-like landscape in Alentejo and laidback beaches in Algarve. Surfing is another activity Portugal is sought after for. Portugal is the place to be if you desire the best of European landscapes and culture in one spot. Best Time : Summer (July-August)

56. Jamaica, Jamaica - The Land Rich in History and Natural Beauty

Jamaica, Jamaica - The Land Rich in History and Natural Beauty

Known For : Waterfalls Seven Mile Beach Ras Natango Gallery and Garden

Jamaica, the fourth largest island country in the Caribbean Sea is a tropical wonderland. Its warm weather is one of its many qualities making it an ideal destination especially for those who want to escape the cold. Its sun-kissed beaches with their crystal clear waters and white sands attract many visitors. Adventure lovers swoon at the country's water sports. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and surfing are some of the actvities visitors ot for.  Best Time : Mid-December through April

Best Time: November to December

8 Jamaica Attractions

57. Poland - The Country With a Quiet Charm

Poland - The Country With a Quiet Charm

Poland is a country in Eastern Europe, filled with big castles and ancient museums. It is a country that is rich in history and proud of it. Apart from the bustling cities like Warsaw and Krakow, Poland also offers unspoilt natural beauty in the forms of lakes, wooded areas, rivers and hills. It is as we mentioned, a historic destination on account of Poland being central to World War II. Memorials and synagogues abound in this country for a walk back in time.  Best Time : March to May and September to November

58. Mexico - Cradle of civilizations

Mexico - Cradle of civilizations

Mexico is a land of great cultural, ethnic and geographical diversity. Be it hiking in the rugged desert landscaped in the North or basking in the lush green tropical settings, the country has it all. From the historic ruins of the Mayans and Aztec in Chichn Itz and Teotihuacn to the beautifully preserved colonial cities of Puebla and Campeche, the country never ceases to amaze its visitors which flock from all over the world. Best Time : November to March

59. Denmark - The Scandinavian gem

Denmark - The Scandinavian gem

Danish pastry is synonymous with the country of Denmark. Other major attractions are fairy tales, football matches and the statue of the bronze mermaid sitting on a rock that looks over the city. With a long and interesting historical background, Denmark is rich in culture and heritage. Now, it is one of the most modern and developed nations in Europe and holds in store for you the best itineraries for travel lovers. Best Time : Mid-June to Mid-August

60. Brunei - A Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures

Brunei - A Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures

Known For : Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque Kampong Ayer

The Nation of Brunei, also known as Brunei Darussalam or the ‘Abode of Peace,’ is a small country located in Southeast Asia. Wedged in the island of Borneo next to the Malaysian state of Sarawak, this oil-rich country is also bordered by the South China Sea. With an interesting culture, spectacular architecture, and matchless biodiversity, Brunei is a bucket-list destination that can be visited on an impulse! Best Time:  January to May

Best Time: January to May

18 Brunei Attractions

61. Sweden - For the experimental traveller

Sweden - For the experimental traveller

Known for its breath-taking landscapes, exotic dishes and notoriously eccentric culture, Sweden is indeed amongst the most diverse countries on the planet. Offering a 360-degree experience that includes both thriving city life and an exotic ride through the countryside, the country is a delight for both mountain lovers and beach junkies. With a rich history, astounding architecture and the most incredible sights, Sweden is a traveller's paradise. Best Time :  June - Mid August

Peru

Peru is a counry in South America. More than anything else, it's known for its lush Amazon rainforests as well as the ancient city of Machu Pichu. The country offers a lot of trekking opportunities for adrenaline junkies or those who wish to revel in the beauty of nature. Peru is also known for its variety of festivals that are celebrated with a lot of pomp and joy and which can last for days. The population is culturally diverse, just like the landscapes. Best Time : June - September

63. Iceland

Iceland

Amongst the most coveted travel destinations, Iceland is one of the most surreal and magnificent countries in the world. Located close to the Arctic Circle, it offers amazingly dramatic and breath-taking landscapes and exotic natural phenomena. Summer is the best time to visit, owing to the mild temperatures and a plethora of available activities from hiking fjords to playing golf at midnight. However, no time is a bad time to visit this spectacular snow-covered country. Best Time: September to March and June to August

64. Uruguay - An Oasis of Peace

Uruguay - An Oasis of Peace

Uruguay is a country located in South America surrounded by Argentina nad Brazil on sides. The country is rich in flora and fauna and you will get to see the most amazing beaches here. Over half of the country's population lives in the capital city Montevideo making it the most populated city in the country. The celebrations and festivals are considered to be the main attractions of Uruguay. From legalising the production and use of marijuana to being one of the most literate countries in the world, Uruguay offers you experiences of all kinds. Best Time : Spring( October-November)

65. Chile - The Land of the Poets

Chile - The Land of the Poets

Chile is home to poets like Pablo Neruda and Isabella Allende. There are plenty of places to visit in Chile from the urban boulevards of Santiago, the Andean foothills and the Atacama Desert, the Pacific coastline and the National Parks, the guanaco and the glaciers. It is known to be the distinction of being the longest country in the world as also the narrowest - it is 4300 km long and just 175 km wide. Chile happens to have the world's largest swimming pool. Its Atacama desert is the driest place on earth. Chileans are friendly and hospitable. It is an ethnically diverse country which gives it vibrant culture and a multitude of flavours. Best Time : October-March

66. Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste

Known For : Dili Atauro islands Baucau

Timor Leste, also known as East Timor is a small country located northwest of Australia and east of Indonesia. A world in its own self, Timor Leste gives you the uninhibited version of things otherwise subverted in other locations. There is something so utterly challenging in its mountains and untouched reefs that pushes the visitor to explore more. AsiaÕs newest country offers some of the worldÕs last great off-the-beaten-track adventures. Best Time: April to July

Best Time: May to November

6 Timor Leste Attractions

67. South Korea - The land where Technology and Nature Goes Together.

South Korea - The land where Technology and Nature Goes Together.

Situated in South East Asia, South Korea is warm and welcoming with a rich heritage and culture. The capital city offers many other cultural and artistic attractions, such as the Museum of Art, the Seoul Fortress, and other old tombs. South Korea is not only rich in lakes, mountains, forests, and sanctuaries but also is the largest market for innovative cosmetics. Korea is also known for its excellence in cosmetic surgery. For shoppers, South Korea offers Korean antiques, artwork, traditional arts and crafts, clothing and accessories. Best Time : Spring (April - June)

68. British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

Known For : The Baths Rhone Marine Park (Salt Island) Fallen Jerusalem National Park

An overseas territory of Britain, British Virgin Islands is nothing but beautiful and an enchanting place to be. With still a major chunk of the islands untouched, this archipelago features all the gorgeous things from rolling green hills, verdant mountainous landscape, reef-lined sparkling beaches and popular shipwrecks. Best Time:  September to November

13 British Virgin Islan Attractions

Haiti

Known For : La Citadelle Labadee Jacmel

Haiti is an exceptionally beautiful country located on the Hispaniola island in the Caribbean between the North Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean sea. A multitude of monuments, rugged mountain peaks, waterfalls, turquoise beaches and lush green vegetation dot the country's diverse landscape. Head to this fascinating country to discover its rich cultural heritage and be overwhelmed by the remarkable positive energy that runs within its residents. Best Time: November to March

Best Time: November to March

11 Haiti Attractions

70. Colombia - The Land Of Many Lives

Colombia - The Land Of Many Lives

Known as the Gateway to South America, Colombia is one of the most culturally and geographically diverse countries in the world. Blessed with a rich cultural heritage and a variegated mixture of flora and fauna, Colombia caters to all kinds of visitors. Visit the historical Bogota or treat yourself to the eternal spring of Medellin, immerse yourself in the exuberance of Cali or simply head for a trek in the Andes and the Amazon. Best Time : December - March

71. Argentina - Eclectic Argentia

Argentina - Eclectic Argentia

Argentina, the second largest country in Latin America is blessed with vast and varied landscapes that range from rugged peaks of the Andes to the glaciers in Patagonia and grasslands of the Pampas, making it a scenic retreat for all kinds of travellers. Be it exploring the mesmerising beauty of its natural wonders, breathing in the air of Buenos Aires and dancing to the tunes of Tango or tasting some of the finest wines in Mendoza, Argentina is a country worth your admiration. Best Time : March-May for Buenos Aires, December - March for Patagonia

72. Taiwan - The Charming Land of History & Architecture

Taiwan - The Charming Land of History & Architecture

Taiwan is a little island that lies towards the east of China. To its northeast lies Japan and the Philippines are towards the south. Taiwan is very well-known for urban cities such as Taipei, its capital as well as hot springs resorts and beautiful Chinese temples. The nation also boasts of some beautiful landscapes. Cycling along the highway with the Pacific ocean on one side of you is just one of the ways in which you can bask in Taiwan's beauty. Best Time : April - May; October - December

73. Dominica- Land of Natural Treasures

Dominica- Land of Natural Treasures

Known For : Cabrits National Park Kalinago Barana Aute Trafalgar Falls

The raw and rugged beauty of nature will sway away your breath; such is the very essence of the Caribbean Island of Dominica. Brimming with all sorts of natural assets from thick forests and thick forests and looming volcanic peaks to snaking mountain streams and pristine lakes, this country is a dream for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Best Time: February to April

Best Time: February to May

9 Dominica Attractions

74. Zimbabwe - Your Dose of Adrenaline

Zimbabwe - Your Dose of Adrenaline

Zimbabwe is the country of wonders. Known to be every adrenaline junkie's dreamland, this country has a lot to offer.Despite the struggles it has faced, Zimbabwe is still one of the most popular tourist locations in Africa. Zimbabwe proudly displays its rare blend of music, art, and dance. One cannot help being mesmerized by its beautiful landscapes, captivating art, and exotic wildlife. This majestic wonderland doesn't fail to give its visitors a thrill of a lifetime while making sure that the experience is worth every penny. Best Time : May-August

75. China - China: A Land of Mysteries and Beyond

China - China: A Land of Mysteries and Beyond

China or officially known as the People’s Republic of China is a country nestled in Eastern Asia housing world’s largest and about one-fifth of the population. The country is one of the world’s four great ancient civilisations dazzling world with its deep-rooted culture, classic cuisine, kung fu, fine silk, pagodas, paintings, porcelains, Ming vases and tea. China never failed to amuse the people around the world with their key attractions including the Great Wall of China, Terracotta Warriors and the Forbidden City.  Best Time : March - April (Spring), September - October (Autumn)

76. Azerbaijan - The Land of Fire

Azerbaijan - The Land of Fire

Georgia is the most visited  country in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Georgia is a destination that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. The city's architecture reflects its complex past, with a mix of medieval, neoclassical, and Soviet-era structures. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kazbegi; longer for exploring the wine region and mountains Best Time : May to September (Warmer months) Accommodation Cost (per night in USD) : Dorm bed: $10-20 Budget: $30-60 Mid-range: $80-120 Luxury: $150 and above Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD) : Budget: $10-20 Mid-range: $30-50 Visa Policy for Indians : eVisa available Visa Policy for Other Nationals : eVisa or Visa on Arrival for many countries Getting In : Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) Getting Around : Marshrutkas (minibusses), trains, taxis, rental cars

77. Georgia - Caucasus Charms, Stories of History

Georgia - Caucasus Charms, Stories of History

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78. Armenia - A Journey into the Heart of the South Caucasus

Armenia - A Journey into the Heart of the South Caucasus

Slovenia, a European gem nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, enchants with its natural splendor and picturesque towns. Ljubljana, the capital, exudes old-world charm alongside a vibrant arts scene.

79. Slovenia - Green Wonders, Alpine Delights

Slovenia - Green Wonders, Alpine Delights

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50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

family running and splashing into sea together with body boards

It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

a slide with a shell that says"mexico and the caribbean"

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

nickelodeon hotels resorts riviera maya, mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

view of atlantis hotel in the bahamas, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

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Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

the sunset at club med michès playa esmeralda, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

a sparsely attended white sand beach at beaches negril, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

an aerial view of the beach at fairmont mayakoba, a good housekeeping pick for best family resort

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

the infinity pool at the rock house resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

embassy suites by hilton aruba resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

a slide that says new england cozy with a whale tail

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

two friends frolic in a lake at the quisisana resort, a good housekeeping pick for family vacation destinations

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

campfire at hidden pond in maine, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

a family goes biking through green hills at smuggler's notch, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

the boardwalk to the beach bar at the ocean's edge resort  golf club, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

the kids' club at the sebasco harbor resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

bluebird cady hill lodge

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

a slide that says california dreamin' with a picture of a palm tree

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

morning scenery of griffith observatory and downtown la los angeles is good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

an overhead shot of the loews coronado bay over the water in san diego, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

guests wearing face coverings and enjoying the kelp forest exhibit at the monterey bay aquarium monterey is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

the ferris wheel at disneyland california adventure disneyland is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

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Climate-conscious travelers are jumpstarting Europe’s sleeper trains

This image released by ÖBB shows a Nightjet sleeper train at a station in Vienna, Austria. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Marek Knopp/ÖBB via AP)

This image released by ÖBB shows a Nightjet sleeper train at a station in Vienna, Austria. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Marek Knopp/ÖBB via AP)

Sarah Marks, of London, looks out at the Italian countryside on TrenItalia’s Intercity Notte sleeper train from Palermo to Rome, on June 10, 2023. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Sarah Marks via AP)

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After being gently rocked awake in her sleeper cabin, Sarah Marks spent the morning of her 29th birthday watching the Alps zip past the windows of her overnight train to Zurich.

“The train comes in right next to the lake, with the mountains coming up behind it,” Marks said wistfully. “Very romantic, I have to say.”

By the time of that 2022 journey from Zagreb, Croatia, it had been four years since she had taken a flight— since around the time Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg began to spread the term flygskam, or “flight shame.”

They join an increasing number of climate-conscious Europeans, particularly younger travelers, who are shunning carbon-spewing airplanes in favor of overnight trains. In the process, they’ve spurred something of a night-train revival while discovering what many say is a slower, richer way of traveling , one that had been on the edge of extinction.

“Being able to fall asleep in one city and wake up maybe even in another country, it’s amazing to me,” said Marks, a Londoner who grew up flying several times a year. “When I switched the plane for the train, it was a no-brainer because, also, this is a superior experience.”

REINVESTMENT, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE

This photo provided by Kia shows the 2024 Niro. The Niro starts at $28,315 and gets up to an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in combined city/highway driving. (Courtesy of Kia America via AP)

Though still a niche and relatively pricey market, demand for sleeper trains is increasing. The online platform Trainline said overnight bookings in 2023 rose 147% compared to 2019, the year before the pandemic. And a climate survey by the European Investment Bank found that 62 percent of respondents supported a ban on short flights.

Governments have begun to reinvest in overnight trains as they search for ways to meet targets to reduce carbon emissions by 2030. The European Commission selected three new night routes in a pilot program aimed to support cross-border travel, including some ambitious private startups.

“Government investment is somehow going back to the good old days of when railways were providing a public service,” said Poul Kettler, one of the founders of Back on Track, a pan-European rail advocacy group. “The climate is coming with a price tag, and they’re now willing to pay.”

Sleeper trains never completely disappeared, particularly in Eastern Europe, but advocates say they suffered years of underinvestment while budget airlines sold tickets for a fraction of the cost.

National railways pivoted resources to high-speed daytime rail, and governments promoted more short-haul air travel by expanding airports and mostly exempting jet fuel from taxes. The supposed death knell for sleeper trains arrived when Germany’s Deutsche Bahn shuttered their remaining overnight routes in 2015.

But the turnaround began almost immediately. Austria’s railway, ÖBB, gambled on night trains by buying all of Germany’s sleeper carriages. They renovated the cars, rebranded it Nightjet and applied cost-saving lessons from the airline industry. Now, Nightjet runs 22 international sleeper routes, mostly in Central Europe but extending from Vienna to Paris and Hamburg to Rome.

In December, Nightjet began rolling out 33 new seven-car trains complete with room key cards, cellphone-permeable window panes for better photos, and digital thermostats in each compartment.

A NEW KIND OF PASSENGER

Nightjet probably saved the entire night-train industry, said Thibault Constant, a former engineer at France’s state-owned railway company, SNCF, with 250,000 followers on his Simply Railway Youtube channel.

The atmosphere on sleeper trains has changed dramatically, he said.

“Ten years ago, it was only old people and weirdos taking night trains,” Constant, 27, said while riding a train through the Czech Republic. “Now I take the same lines with a bunch of teenagers and all kinds of people.”

The success of Nightjet showed other national railways that sleeper trains were worth upgrading, advocates say. In 2023, for instance, the Czech and Hungarian railways began refurbishing their sleeper cars, and national operators in Italy and Finland signed contracts for new ones.

Private companies also are stepping in to fill gaps in service. European Sleeper launched last year — partially relying on crowdfunding — with service from Brussels to Berlin via Amsterdam, and extended the line to Prague in May. The European Commission selected the company’s plans for an Amsterdam-to-Barcelona route among its pilot projects.

Still, progress is slow-going. A much-hyped French proposal in 2021 to invest $1.5 billion in overnight trains still has not begun, according to Back on Track. (France did revive four overnight lines from Paris to the south in the last two years.) And Spain’s Renfe discontinued the last of its Trenhotel lines in 2020 with no plans announced to bring them back.

ROMANCE OF THE RAILS, WITH HURDLES

Challenges include the lack of a central booking platform for train tickets; the more than 30 European operators each have their own websites. It’s also hard to make night trains profitable, considering that a day-running train car has about 70 seats, compared to the 20 to 40 berths on an average night train.

And there is the issue of price, and competition from budget airlines. For example, a 14-hour overnight train ride in late April form Paris to Berlin on Nightjet was going for 139 euros for a bunk in a 4- to 6-person couchette, whereas a flight on budget carrier Transavia was 50 euros. Private cabins on the train can cost significantly more, while reclining seats are similar to the price of a flight.

Marks noted, however, that a sleeper car saves travelers the price of a hotel night, not to mention the cost of traveling to city centers from far-flung airports. Headline flight prices rarely include fees for bags, seat assignments and other extras.

Sleeper-car buffs say the experience is worth some extra effort and cost.

Says Mark Smith, whose website Man in Seat 61 is a guide to European train travel: “What’s better than snuggling down in crisp, clean sheets with a bottle of wine while you travel, and then you’re there the next morning? It’s quite fun.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: Albert Stumm lives in Barcelona and writes about food, travel and wellness. Find his work at https://www.albertstumm.com

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  15. How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips

    1. Make Smarter Flight Choices. Air travel emissions make up a whopping 20% of a tourist's carbon footprint. If you must fly, be sure to pack light to lessen the plane's load and try to book a ...

  16. How to travel better: a beginner's guide to sustainable travel in 2023

    The single more significant way to reduce the carbon emissions of travelling is to tackle the transport portion, which is often responsible for at least 70% of the carbon emissions of a holiday ...

  17. World's unfriendliest nations for tourists?

    Less welcome here —. Venezuela, Russia, Kuwait and Latvia rounded out the top five unfriendliest countries for tourists. Russia (third most unwelcoming) ranked 63rd overall for tourism ...

  18. Most tourist-friendly cities in the U.S.

    Tourism is the watchword at this infinitely visitable beach town, where the water's fine and the residents are friendly. Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Company is passionate about its work, and is a go-to for quality surf lessons and gear. During summer, visitors are treated to nightly shows on Sea Shell stage, a common central gathering spot.

  19. Be a Tourist in Your Own City: 12 Fun & Budget-Friendly Tips

    This is a great way to promote your favourite local businesses, too. 9. Retrace an artist's footsteps. Maybe there's a movie or TV series that was filmed in your city, or a novel set in your area. If you need some extra inspiration, you could watch/read then visit some of the locations mentioned.

  20. 15 Sustainable Beach Tips: How to Have an Eco-Friendly Beach Trip

    Avoid Plastic with These Sustainable Beach Tips. Carry a reusable water bottle like this or get a Big Berkey water filter like this one. Either give up straws altogether or buy a reusable straw like this. Avoid food plastic by buying or bringing snacks like fruit or sandwiches in reusable boxes. Don't smoke.

  21. 30 Affordable Tourist Activities: See More for Less

    30 Budget-Friendly Tourist Activities 1. Let's Roam Scavenger Hunts. We might be a bit biased, but we know a thing or two about scavenger hunts! We have developed interactive walking tours for almost every major city in the United States and several international ones too! Our hunts are expertly designed to be informative and exciting.

  22. 79 Best Countries For Tourism In The World

    Here is the list of 77 Best Countries For Tourism in the World. 1. India - The Land of Diversity. Situated in South Asia, India is a country with deep cultural roots and a rich heritage. A great country for budget travel, India is popular for its forts and palaces. You can visit India to find yourself through yoga, to lose yourself in the ...

  23. What Is Eco-Friendly Tourism? In 2023: Save The Planet

    Responsible travel starts in 2023. Eco-friendly tourism is all about traveling in a way that is responsible and deliberate—to affect global, positive change for the individual, the broader community, and the planet as a whole. This sort of self-aware tourism is rapidly becoming a big trend in the travel industry and ecotourism is set to ...

  24. These Are the Best Family Vacation Ideas for Your Next Trip

    Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas. Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping ...

  25. 9 travel-friendly items you can get for free (or nearly free ...

    Courant Mag:1 Essentials Magnetic Charger. Saks Fifth Avenue. This is a perfect charger for travelers: It's small, it charges anything that's wireless charging -capable, and it comes with its ...

  26. Climate-conscious travelers are jumpstarting Europe's sleeper trains

    A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Sarah Marks via AP) After being gently rocked awake in her sleeper cabin, Sarah Marks spent the morning of her 29th birthday watching the Alps zip past the windows of her overnight train to Zurich. "The train comes in right next to the lake ...

  27. PDF VISA BULLETIN

    -5- April 2024 *Employment Third Preference Other Workers Category: Section 203(e) of the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) passed by Congress in November 1997, as