20 amazing places to travel
The year of 2009 marks the beginning of the new decade. Is there a better time to assess and reconsider your travel plans now than right today?
Exploring the world has been more enjoyable but it isn't always easy to figure out which direction to take and where you should go from there.
Simply take a look on Instagram and you'll find yourself flooded with beautiful travel ideas all over the world.
Is it the right the right time to have a break from work? Are you looking for ideas to inspire city breaks, or maybe 2020 could be the year that you'll decide to make that round the globe trip that you've made a promise to yourself?
The most obscure hotspots, well-known backpacker spots, luxury getaways, and healthy volunteering possibilities, our planet is filled with inspiring destinations to share with you when we begin the new decade.
We're here on Worldpackers We've created the following list of unique and interesting locations to see providing you with an overview of the characters as well as places and experiences which are sure to please and enthral your feet this season.
This is why we have put together a guide to 20 places that are inspiring you should visit:
20 places that are inspiring to visit
- Galway, Ireland
- St. Petersburg, Russia
- Bagan, Myanmar
- Tunis, Tunisia
- Chisinau, Moldova
- Washington DC, USA
- Paro Taktsang, Bhutan
- Bologna, Italy
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Isle of Skye, Scotland
- Kailasa Temple, Maharashtra, India
- Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia, Chile
- Tikal, Guatemala
- Angel Falls, Venezuela
- Tokyo, Japan
- Zion National Park, Arizona, USA
- Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
- Milford Sound, New Zealand
- Tel Aviv/Jerusalem, Israel
- Porto, Portugal
20 inspiring places to visit
1. Galway, Ireland
The first on our list is Galway, the windswept Irish town of Galway.
The city was recently declared as the European Capital of Culture of 2020, Galway is making an impression as the party and artistic capital of the renowned Emerald Isle.
Surrounded by traditional Irish pubs, lively students area, this city will be hosting celebrations of music, food literature, and art throughout the year, which makes the perfect destination to connect to their Irish ancestral roots, or to sample the famed Irish the craic.
Explore the city and take in the numerous street performers who play live music to the crowds of people on the famed Shop Street where the likes of Ed Sheeran, The High Kings and Sharon Shannon had previously performed and have been in awe of the city and written music on the City of the Tribes.
To see stunning scenery, go south to enjoy the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher with a length across 14 km with stunning views to the west, towards Aran Islands. Aran Islands and the stormy oceans of the Atlantic Ocean.
It is possible to reach Galway direct via Ireland West or Shannon International Airport as well as get a train ride from Dublin, the Irish capital, Dublin which is home to one of the most connected airports within Europe.
To help you plan your trip, read the Ireland trip guide. In the spirit of Worldpackers, did I mention the fact that there's Worldpackers-related opportunities throughout Ireland?
No matter if you're interested or animal-related or website design as well as language education and even gardening, there's an area there for you at the Emerald Isle!
2. St. Petersburg, Russia
Westward facing towards toward the Baltic Sea, the imperial city of St. Petersburg is frequently known as"the "Paris of Russia" on due to its beautiful baroque structures, geometric designs as well as picturesque canals.
The present St. Petersburg is regarded as the capital of culture in Russia and is home to world class ballet, opera, and classical music events and over 200 museums, including The UNESCO World Heritage listed Hermitage Museum.
If you are looking for a less-known culture destination for 2020, St. Petersburg truly offers everything. The Russian government also has eased visa restrictions recently, and made it more accessible to travel back into the past and discover the vast cultural and artistic tradition from the East.
It is possible to fly into St. Petersburg with direct flights coming from Europe, Asia or the Middle East or alternatively why not make it a combination with an excursion to Moscow, the Russian capital city Moscow for a full-day excursion of Russian the past, culture foods, cuisine, and literature.
3. Bagan, Myanmar
One as one of the more Instragrammable locations around the globe The huge plains in Bagan are ranked with Angkor Wat and Borobudur as the archeological landmarks with the highest importance in South East Asia.
Incredibly massive and mysterious in its size, Bagan is home to more than 2,000 ancient Buddhist pagodas designed in line with the astrological pattern that are believed by many to be affected by the supernatural.
Recently, Bagan was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, Bagan has been ranked as the most popular tourist destination in Myanmar and is among the most top travel destinations for backpackers..
Tourist visas are now accessible online, visitors can travel to Bagan through the towns of Yangon and Mandalay each of these cities provide flights to Bangkok, Singapore and other famous destinations of South East Asia.
Are you looking to help out to help in Myanmar? Backpackers have the opportunity to serve in cities such as Bagan, Mandalay, Kalaw and many more, without having to spend any money.
4. Tunis, Tunisia
The city is famous for its Roman heritage It is also known for its roman heritage. Tunisian capital city has been returned to the tourist map following a decade of decline because of the Arab Spring and the rise of ISIS.
In a frenzied state of youth Tunis blends ancient monuments with market stalls, performances arts shows, as well as film festivals. This makes it an inspiring destination for people looking for an urban getaway and a change in the year 2020.
Enjoy the vibrancy of the city by taking an excursion around Tunis Medina. Tunis Medina and explore its wide streets with souks and mosques. You can also visit the very photogenic area in Sidi Bou Said whose blue and white structures are a reflection of the city's long-standing Greek influence.
The security conditions are greatly improved, the gastronomic attractions of Tunis can be visited quickly and easily by direct flights from European airports, including London, Paris, Rome, Madrid and Istanbul.
Be sure to look online for up-to the minute travel tips prior to deciding on your travel plans.
5. Chisinau, Moldova
Announcing itself at the global stage by 2020 will be the small Republic of Moldova, whose capital city Chisinau remains a hidden jewel in Eastern Europe.
Mixing Soviet and neoclassical design with lush parks as well as a lively youth culture, Chisinau is famous for having the largest of wine cellars that stretch beneath the surface over 200 km (120 miles) and can hold more than two million bottles of wine.
The city of Chisinau could feel like going into the past. With less than 200,000 foreign tourist visits in the last year, Chisinau is a great destination for people who want to get out of the way and explore destinations that most aren't aware of.
Chisinau is accessible via directly flights departing from many of European destinations, or by an overland journey from neighboring states that comprise Ukraine as well as Romania.
6. Washington DC, USA
The world's attention is focused on Washington DC this November for the presidential race, and so, why not think about an autumn trip in one of the most famous cities.
Go to the White House, Capitol Hill as well as The Lincoln Memorial from where Martin Luther King gave his famous I have A Dream speech.
Washington DC is also home to the world-renowned Smithsonian Museums which are free for those with cash shortages to see the culture of vultures.
What about prolonging your stay by arranging an working exchange program with a work exchange in Washington DC? Make use of Worldpackers to secure your space in a hostel near you as well as, in the process you can learn about the American cultural background or increase your English proficiency.
Worldpackers provides inspiring work exchanges at homestays, hostels, Eco-projects, and non-profit organizations all around all over the globe which includes the USA.
7. Paro Taktsang, Bhutan
People who want to reconnect to their spirituality for 2020 might want to think about the mystical and mysterious Bhutanese kingdom Bhutan to plan their next trip.
One of the most notable highlights of this unexplored and remote nation is the famous "Tiger's Nest monastic complex located in Paro Taktsang which clings to the cliffs at a height of 10,000 feet higher than sea level..
The monastery was constructed in 1692, in the vicinity of a sacred Buddhist site of meditation, the Taktsang monastery is an exhausting two-hour walk from Paro and has since become one of the most iconic holy sites for buddhist pilgrims around the world.
People who wish to follow the tradition of Tibetan saints may travel to Bhutan in 2020 with the Bhutan Tourist Visa. They are granted upon departure, however they need to be approved beforehand with an authorised tour operator, so make sure to research the rules and arrange for the trip prior to departure.
8. Bologna, Italy
Venice, Rome and Florence are known as"the "Big Three" of Italy however, they are less well-known. Bologna has been able to establish itself as the most iconic Italian city tripfor people who are aware.
It is noted for the red bricks of Bologna's Bolognese architectural style as well as being the location of Europe's oldest college, Bologna is also regarded as the food capital of Italy featuring Tagliatelle, Tortellini, Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano as well as Mortadella among the delicacies available in the Emiglia-Romana capital.
Travel to Bologna during the months of April to November, and you'll get to enjoy delicious tartufo (truffles) that were thought of as a special treat from Roman time and are regarded as one of the most precious and desired foods around the world.
In addition to having an international airport of its own, Bologna is a great rail hub to both Florence as well as Venice. If you are inspired to take on the path of Eat, Pray, Love in 2020, make sure you include this historical Italian city on your list of destinations.
If you're visiting Italy do you want to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle by taking part in work exchange? Worldpackers provides hundreds of exchange options within Italy that are all that allow you to experience life as a native while receiving assistance on site for accommodations.
9. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town might just be the most photographed place of Africa.
The city is located on top of a peninsula, beneath the majestic Table Mountain, South Africa's most well-known coastal city sits in the southernmost point of the continent. It's filled with opportunities and activities to experience that are suitable for all types of travelers.
No matter if you'd rather stroll along sandy beaches, have a enjoy a picnic at the park, or hike out in the open, you'll quickly become awestruck by the energy and spirit in the South African Mother City.
It is a brief ferry ride away Robben Island, a former prison now a museum that tells the fascinating history of Nelson Mandela, the Nobel Prize winner for civil rights who was held in prison for 27 years in Apartheid and then became president of the country.
Cape Town can be reached by direct flights departing from Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London, Paris, Istanbul, Dubai and a myriad of African cities.
Make sure to take a look at the fantastic job exchange possibilities that are available within Cape Town and read our South Africa travel guide before you plan your next vacation!
10. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Let Scotland make you swoon in 2020 when you make a trip to the magnificent Isle of Skye.
The island is famous for its jagged mountain ranges with ancient castles, and sandy beaches This 50-mile island is a stunning blend of Gaelic mythology and myth. Also, it's a great place to experience the time-honored method of making Scotch Whisky. There are a variety of distilleries that are world-renowned within this region of Scotland.
The Isle of Skye from the Scottish mainland. The majority of travelers take a flight to Glasgow and hire a car for a scenic trip north that passes by Loch Lomond national park. Loch Lomond national park and Scotland's tallest mountain: Ben Nevis.
Find out more about: How to get into mountaineering with just seven steps: the entire step-by-step guide
11. Kailasa Temple, Maharashtra, India
The sprawling land of India is famous by its breathtaking beauty. Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal but lesser known is those of the Ellora Caves of Maharashtra which house one of their less well-known wonders.
As the world's largest monolithic building in the world and the UNESCO classified Kailasa Temple has been painstakingly removed from the mountain, and then meticulously carved according to the design of an equestrian chariot dedicated in the name of Hindu goddess Shiva.
Engineers from the present have calculated that even if the temple was constructed using advanced technology, it could need more than 5,000 working hours to dig, fuelling theories about the fact that this temple was built by extraterrestrials.
The Kailasa temple is considered to be the top of the line in a collection of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain structures built in this region from 600 to 1000 AD It is accessible in the present day from the city in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
Worldpackers provides numerous amazing work exchanges and internships in India available The only thing you need to do is look through the site to discover these!
12. Los Glaciares National Park, Chile / Argentina
Inspiring by the pure wildness and unspoiled nature of Patagonia Travel writer Bruce Chatwin famously wrote: "Travel doesn't merely broaden the mind. It makes the mind." It is nowhere else that this thought is as deeply felt than in the Los Glaciares National Park.
featuring stunning scenery huge lakes, awe-inspiring granite peaks and awe-inspiring walks to white glaciers in the Los Glaciares protected area is one of the most stunning and breathtaking locations in the world, for people who enjoy the magnificent outdoor.
Some prefer to travel towards Los Glaciares overland, most tourists will go towards Los Glaciares from El Calafate which is known as the capital of glaciers. The city is accessible via Buenos Aires in a little more than three hours.
If you're looking to reconnecting to the natural world in a more profound way and are looking to broaden your journeys within the area, Worldpackers offers a great range of volunteering opportunities that are located in Chile as well as Argentina.
13. Tikal, Guatemala
"In the heart of the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation, lies one of the major sites of a lost civilization. An abandoned city shrouded in mystique and left untouched for centuries."
The words are akin to those about Machu Picchu, Timbuktu or Angkor Wat but lesser known is the equally spectacular Tikal, Guatemala whose temples were the watermarks of high elevation in Mayan Civilization. Mayan Civilization and the tallest building on the west coast of the world.
A recent designation as an UNESCO World Heritage site, Tikal, the city that has been lost to time Tikal is most enjoyable to explore during the dawn hours, when indigenous bird calls ring out through the bushes, unveiling the massive outline of the temple along with their sound, which reflect the essence of the Mayan inhabitants and the city which was the capital of their empire..
Tikal is accessible from the city that is close by, Flores. Visit Guatemala in 2020, with flight connections from Mexico, the USA, Mexico or the neighbouring nations in Central America.
Every volunteer opportunity that allows you to live nothing and get to know the indigenous culture of the people is an experience worth taking advantage of. It's true that there's a lot of these adventures to be had in Guatemala! Take a look while you read more about the most memorable and unique activities to enjoy within Guatemala.
14. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Even though Niagara Falls is the biggest by volume, Victoria Falls is the largest in terms of size. Iguazu Falls is the most impressive, there's a less known waterfall that's equally spectacular as the legendary gigantic waterfalls in the world The Angel Falls of Venezuela.
located within Canaima National Park, Angel Falls is known as the most uninterrupted waterfall. Three times as high as the Eiffel tower, Angel Falls is hidden deep in the mountains and forest and is a stunning view and a most visited tourist attraction.
The journey to Angel Falls can be tricky because you'll be required to board a flight to the town of Canaima and then take a day-long cruise. Any person planning to travel to Venezuela is advised to check out for the most current travel information since the situation in Venezuela is often unstable, particularly in major cities.
15. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is scheduled to host Tokyo's Olympic Games in 2020 creating an ideal opportunity for visitors to Tokyo, Japanese capital city and be immersed into the history, culture of food, tradition, cuisine as well as the energy and vibrant party scene of this amazing global city.
From the local ramen bar to upscale sushi establishments, Tokyo is a patchwork of peculiarities. If you're shopping in Ginza or scouting for cool in trendy Harajuku or enjoying the electric atmosphere in Akihabara, Tokyo is the historical, cultural, and commercial capital of Japan and an essential place for people all over the globe.
Two international airports are served getting into and out of the city is effortless by Tokyo Metro. Tokyo Metro while a ride with the fast bullet train system makes the city's historic capital Kyoto in reach of people who want to visit Kyoto's Palaces, Geishas, Buddhist temples, and the bamboo forests from the tradition of Japanese Japan's culture.
If you want to add an additional bonus to your budget, you could consider an Worldpackers trip to Tokyo rather than having to pay for a hostel or hotel!
16. Zion National Park, Arizona, USA
It is considered to be to be one of the most beautiful national parks within the USA The tiny slot canyons , White and red sandstone formations and the towering vertical walls that make up Zion have captivated and inspired tourists for centuries.
It's not just Zion the perfect spot for rock climbing, but it's also the home of the most thrilling hiking trail in America known as Angels Landing that includes a strenuous 5 miles loop with high drops and small, narrow sections of climbing that lead to an elevated platform that offers panoramic views of to the Virgin the river's canyon .
Zion National Park can be located in under three hours by car in Las Vegas, Arizona heading north on Interstate 15 The closest major airports are Salt Lake City International and Las Vegas McCarran International.
Be part of the group of volunteers in the Cowboy Bunkhouse Hostel in southern Utah with easy accessibility to Zion and the other famous US National Parks like Bryce and Canyonlands. It was named among the top Worldpackers hosts in the year The hostel is able to let visitors to hike, explore or camp, and fish, as well as live life to the fullest in this part of the United States' beautiful playground.
ZionNP is among our 20 most fav spots within the US Learn about more!
17. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni in southwest Bolivia is the largest salt flat in the world. It covers an area that is about as large as France It's the remnants of a prehistoric lake which dried up, leaving the desert-like terrain of white salt deposits and rocky patterns.
From the settlement of the trading post called Uyuni and the sensation of walking into the dry vastness and wildness of the salt can be described as a bucket list item as only few images can testify to the emptiness and serenity that is found in this area.
Furthermore, with only 60,000 international tourists per annually, Salar de Uyuni remains one of the less traveled locations in Latin America. This makes it the perfect place for photographers to take unique photos and to enjoy a few moments to relax in the midst of a busy contemporary world.
Worldpackers provides exchange opportunities all across Bolivia. You can choose from opportunities with us in hostel administration, permaculture projects, eco lodges as well as other.
18. Milford Sound, New Zealand
Around the globe from the salt plains in Bolivia is another amazing natural wonder that'll have you making plans to travel in 2020.
Milford Sound is the most coveted jewel of the New Zealand South Island. It is located deep in the Fiordlands National Park, which is located in Australia through into the Tasman Sea, the landscape is famous for its forests along with waterfalls and wildlife.
In the middle of everything is the imposing Mitre Peak that is located in the middle of the fiord and has been the subject of numerous photographs because of its snowy peaks in the midst of the rainforest. Additionally, it is worth the trek through Milford Sound which passes through an area of protected nature reserves and historical tunnels cut into the cliff's faces.
Milford Sound can be reached by way of close by Queenstown known as Queenstown, the Adrenaline Capital of the World and from there you can fly directly to various destinations in Australia as well as New Zealand.
There's a wealth of interesting exchange possibilities to exchange your currency in New Zealand. Make sure you plan your trip to this nation on your bucket list with conviction that you'll get the most memorable trip of your life!
19. Tel Aviv/Jerusalem, Israel
Beautiful beaches, Crusader castles with cosmopolitan cuisine, and Biblical culture, a visit to Israel is an unforgettable adventureand none of the cities can are more impressive than the contemporary city that is Tel Aviv and the ancient city of Jerusalem.
In December 2019, both cities have been connected by high-speed railways, which allows visitors to take in the rays of the Mediterranean coastline before heading to Jerusalem to discover the ancient city, and learn about its significant role to Christians, Jews and Muslims alike.
You may dream of trying freshly made hummus, falafel or tahini, Tel Aviv or exploring walking through the steps of pilgrims to the holy shrine and crusader knights, there's something for all visitors to Israel.
If you want to make your day with an extra twist, go on an early rise hike up towards the historical fortress of Masada and then cool down by a swim into the Dead Sea which is famous for its curative salt mineral and also as the most arid place on Earth.
Both Jerusalem as well as Tel Aviv can be reached by Ben Gurion International Airport where flights are available throughout Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Worldpackers provides a wide range of exchange programs with a focus on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Spend a couple of hours each day, and then spend the remainder of your time exploring everything of the incredible things these cities are offering!
20. Porto, Portugal
The city was once overlooked for its proximity to Lisbon, Porto has enjoyed an upswing in the past few years which has made it among the top tourist destinations that is growing rapidly across Europe.
Porto is a city that has become the center to port wine. Port Wine industry and for iconic bridges that span the Douro River. Douro Porto is a city in Portugal. Porto lies at the entry point towards the Douro Valley and is home to an array of arts food, culture, and activities that make Porto the ideal European city getaway.
In the Medieval Ribeira district, cobbled streets lead past merchants homes and cafes, as historic Port distilleries sit across the river, attracting aficionados as well as Douro Valley river cruisers to sunny terraces that line the riverfront.
The flight connections are done at Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport which is located just a few minutes from the city's center and is accessible via London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid and a host of other European airports.
Worldpackers provides distinctive exchange programs that are located in Portugal. With more than thirty of the top hosts available why are you wasting time to do?