Bali, Japan, the UK, and the US. These are some of the travel spots most popular among Australians, often travelled to by the same individuals again and again. If that’s you, and you’re keen on some ideas for somewhere new to go, we’ve got some picks for up-and-coming travel spots ahead.
From a little-known US island territory in Micronesia, to a country considered the intersection of Europe and Asia, yet still relatively untouched by tourism and home to less than 4 million people, here are seven travel destinations to consider visiting in 2024.
Bhutan
Emerging as one of the hottest new destinations in Asia, Bhutan is Earth’s only carbon-negative country and the creator of the Gross National Happiness Index. The country’s focus on happiness makes Bhutan a peaceful, spiritually rich country that every visitor can’t help but be inspired by. It’s surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas.
Where to stay: Six Senses Bhutan comprises five luxury lodges, designed to fully immerse travellers in the Kingdom of Bhutan’s natural beauty and culture, while still allowing for all the modern conveniences. Guests can hike or bike untouched mountain ranges, be mesmerised by Bhutanese cultural and religious festivals, or relax with yoga and meditation in the resort’s environment it works hard to preserve.
Guam
A little-known US island territory in Micronesia, Guam is the first place where the sun rises on US soil. As a hub of rich history and warm island culture, Guam is an ideal getaway with non-stop flights from many major cities in the Asia Pacific. It’s also a great travel hack for travellers to the US, as flights from Guam into the United States are considered a domestic trip.
Where to stay: Opened in November 2022, the renovated Crowne Plaza Resort Guam is set on the white sandy beaches of Tumon Bay with crystal-clear ocean and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling just beyond. Guests can learn more about Micronesia at the resort’s cultural BBQ dinner show, which features local music and dance, or take a short walk to Guam’s central shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
Georgia
Often mistaken for the American state, Georgia is a country at the intersection of Europe and Asia, home to less than 4 million people. It boasts Europe’s highest mountain range, an 8,000-year-old wine-making heritage, a handful of beaches along the Black Sea, and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In short, there’s a lot to see and do here.
Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express Tbilisi Avlabari is in the heart of the historic Old Town of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. The city is a multi-cultural hub at the crossroads of East and West, known for its vibrant culture. Many of Tbilisi’s main sites and monuments are within walking distance from the hotel, making it the perfect place to base yourself.
Mauritius
Mauritius is an ecological paradise, located off the south-eastern coast of Africa. The island has a diverse population and cultural heritage, a tropical climate, and a stunning natural environment. In fact, it’s worth considering as an alternative to Maldives, Bali, and Fiji.
Where to stay: InterContinental Resort Mauritius is a beachfront property, nestled between the mountains and the Indian Ocean on the island’s northern coast. Mauritian hospitality is a big focus here, and is featured at the hotel’s four restaurants, three bars, spa, and kids’ club. The hotel also has two heated pools.
Saipan
Saipan is a Micronesian island in the western Pacific, known for its brightly-coloured corals and diverse marine life. It’s also home to countless white sand beaches and world-class golf courses, as well as jungles, lagoons, caves, and mountains. If you love to dive, snorkel or hike, or simply relax in an island setting, add Saipan to your travel list.
Where to stay: Opened in late 2022, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan is a beachfront resort aiming to get guests to disconnect from their daily lives and reconnect with nature. Here, you can dive in crystal-clear waters, wander landscaped gardens, take in a cultural show, sip a cocktail at Mari Bar at sunset, or take a dip in one of several outdoor pools.
Montenegro
Montenegro is a small Balkan country neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and the Adriatic Sea. An alternative to its more popular neighbour Croatia, Montenegro is filled with beaches, mountains, charming coastal towns, and several UNESCO world heritage sites.
Where to stay: Coastal charm meets upscale elegance at Regent Porto Montenegro, stretched along the shores of Boka Bay. The Regent pays homage to Montenegro’s Venetian ties, with a Murano glass chandelier in the lobby and a pool overlooking the marina. Rooms offer views of the ocean or mountains, while five dining venues serve the freshest of local cuisine. After a day of sightseeing, book in a renewing treatment at the hotel’s lavish spa.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
When you think of Vietnam, you likely think of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hoi An, or Ha Long Bay. But the island Phu Quoc in the country is also worth a visit. Located off the south of neighbouring Cambodia, Phu Quoc has a 150km virtually untouched coastline surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand. Incredibly, more than half the island, including mountains, jungle, and beaches. is part of Phu Quoc National Park.
Where to stay: InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, which opened in 2022, is a luxury beach resort that blends modern comfort with island charm. All rooms feature views of the sea, mountains, landscaped gardens, or lagoons. Book in for a treatment at the spa, and you’ll be taken to a suite that appears to float on the lush Lotus Lagoon. This hotel also has a sky bar and kids’ club.
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