According to Travel & Leisure, these destinations are the place to be in the new year.
We’ve compiled the top 10 to let you know why these destinations are hot and happening in 2020. Where are you going to be next year?
1. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Maybe you haven’t heard of this destination, but it’s the capital of Ethiopia. The reason it tops the list, is because of the expansion of the airport, the newly opened Zoma Museum, many galleries and the Addis Foto fest, held in December.
2. Arequipa, Peru
It seems like this Peruvian destination is finally getting some recognition.
3. Asheville, North Carolina
The place that is well renowned for it’s musicians, artists and the vibrant food & wine culture. The region has many festivals, new bars and restaurants and a few quirky hotels to look forward to in the new year.
4. Austria
Obviously, we have heard of Austria, especially during wintertime. But what many forget, is that Austria is amazing during summer time!
5. Baja Sur’s East Cape, Mexico
After years of development, Baja Sur’s East Cape is finally home to 1000 new luxury accommodations, new hotels and docks for expensive yachts. Yes, this one is for the jetsetters amongst us!
6. Barbados
In reality, Barbados became on the radar due to one famous resident, Rihanna. The carnival is the highlight of the year, but the beaches are worth something to travel for! In 2020 Barbados will host a year long festival, starting this January named ‘We Gatherin’.
7. Beijing, China
Last year, the largest airport in the world opened in Beijing, designed by star architect Zaha Hadid. Next to that the “Forbidden City”, a wonderful palace-like complex in central Beijing, will open in 2020.
8. Big Island, Hawaii
On the contrary, Hawaii is totally different from Beijing, and focusses on nature in the year 2020. But also new development plans are well on their way with stunning hotels to keep an eye on.
9. Botswana
Adventure seekers can be accommodated in the most fantastic safari lodges in 2020 when new eco-friendly places are opening in 2019/2020. The time to visit is now.
10. Boston
Notwithstanding New York, Boston is a great contender of being the new hotel capital of the USA in 2020. 5 new hotels (Four Seasons, Langham, Juliet, The Withney and Mirror Infinity Rooms) will open.
Our personal top five destinations for 2020 are:
1. Kazakstan
This underrated country is becoming more and more popular and we think you should visit it before it getting too busy. Most airlines fly to Almaty and from there you can travel to the Kolsai Lake Park where you’ll also find Lake Kaindy and the Sunken Forest.
2. Touradant, Morocco
Sarah just came back from this less known destination in Morocco. Find out why it’s worth a visit and where you can find the true culture of Morocco.
3. Georgia
By far one of our favourite trips from 2019. Georgia has so much to offer, from mountains to green hills, amazing cuisine and even a buzzy nightlife! Read about the 12 must sees in Georgia of you only have a few days to explore!
4. Kirigzstan
Unfortunately, we haven’t been yet, but hopefully this will chance in the future. In our upcoming book Off the Beaten Track, we will talk about this amazing destination that will make you feel like you’re in 4 different countries at the same time.
5. Doha
This luxury capital is located in Qatar and really surprised us in 2019. It is also home to the most amazing museum we’ve ever seen and the restaurants and hotels are amazing. Mind you, Doha isn’t cheap, but it’s a great option for a stopover!
5. Switzerland
We can’t praise Switzerland enough! Comparatively with Austria, it has lush mountains and nature, but Switzerland takes the award for being the most divers. We felt like being in Canada, and yet it’s so close to home. Are you thinking about driving to Switzerland in 2020, take a look at our full Swiss Guide.
