10 Places to Visit in 2020
Traveling is often high on most people’s New Year’s resolution list. Too often, the year passes quicker than we had anticipated and only a few - if any - of the destinations on our bucket list gets checked off. Not only is traveling personally rewarding and culturally enriching, it expands your social network and creates a lifetime of memories. With flights becoming cheaper and once-remote places becoming more accessible than ever, there’s no excuse not to make travel a priority in 2020. We compiled a list that is geographically diverse with points of interest for every traveler. You want to hop a flight to spot gorillas in the wild, or dine in the desert in Marrakech, we’ve got you covered!
1. PORTO / DUORO VALLEY, PORTUGAL
Why? If you’re looking for a culinary adventure Porto has great food and wine. Not to mention beautiful sights, perfect weather and reasonable costs. Don’t forget to check out the azulejos (hand painted tile work) which can be seen throughout Porto.
Who should go? Great for couples and food lovers.
2. SLOVENIA
Why? Slovenia remains a low-key hideaway despite its picture-perfect Alpine hills, quaint villages and dramatic coastline. If you love nature, the new 186-mile Julian Alps Hiking Trail which snakes through the pine forests and turquoise lakes of Triglav National Park is a must see. If you’re a foodie, you probably already have Hisa Franko on your list. This pink farmhouse in the quiet Soča Valley serves Alpine dishes that will blow your mind.
Who should go? Good for crowd-averse travelers + nature lovers.
3. TEL AVIV, ISRAEL
Why? In recent years, Tel Aviv has become a culinary center. Don’t miss out on taking a long walk down the beach promenade into Jaffa, an ancient port city undergoing a renaissance.
Who should go? Families and couples. Tel Aviv is also welcoming to members of the LGBT community, according to Ovation.
4. ATACAMA DESERT, CHILE
Why? Located about 8,000 feet above sea level, the Atacama Desert is often compared to Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park in Utah. The adventure enthusiast will love hiking and biking around the canyons and mountains, taking in the wildlife and ancient ruins in this remote northern Chilean city. Check out Chaxa Lagoon, surrounded by salt flats and inhabited by two species of flamingos.
Who should go? Adventure seekers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, History Buffs
5. COPENHAGEN
Why? With its long summer days and cozy winters, amazing food scene and charming street life, its no surprise that Copenhagen is a highly sought after travel destination. If you’re looking for a safe, clean and gastronomic vacation - then Copenhagen is for you. Make sure to book your reservations for Michelin star rated, Nordic molecular-gastronomy restaurant from talented young chef Rasmus Munk at Alchemist in advance. Nearby, Restaurant Lola by chef Kamilla Seidler, offers a culturally inclusive restaurant where an international staff works together to prepare globally inspired cuisine.
Who should go? Designers, Foodies, Cyclists
6. METZ, FRANCE
Why? If you love gothic architecture then visiting Metz in 2020 should be at the top of your list. The city will celebrate the 800th anniversary of the St.-Étienne Cathedral. Built between the late 12th and late 13th centuries, it is one of the great masterpieces of Gothic art and is admired for its scale and unity of design. Just a quick 1.5 hour flight from Paris, Metz is an easy trip if you're already in the region. Don’t forget to try the areas name-sake food - Quiche Lorraine - which has been dubbed one of the ultimate comfort foods. With new hotels on the way, the city is set to be more than just a day trip. In 2020, designer Philippe Starck will open his first hotel with Maison Heler. Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection - the 14-story tower will be topped with an 18th-century-style Alsatian house and rooftop garden.
Who should go? Architecture Buffs, Foodies, Those seeking a European vacation that will avoid crowds
7. MARRAKECH, MOROCCO
Why? Besides its beautiful landscapes and color-soaked streets, Marrackech offers experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind, even for the seasoned traveler. Marrakech has wonderful markets where you can score premium textiles at a modest price. A drive over the through the Atlas mountains, with a couple nights stay at Desert Luxury Camp deep in the Sahara Desert will make you feel like you have stepped into a scene of Paul Coelho’s The Alchemist.
Who should go? Travelers looking to expand their horizons and enjoy different cultural experiences.
8. CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
Why? Chiang Mai offers the perfect mix of city and adventure. You can explore the culture of the region’s hill tribes, visit elephant sanctuaries and pick up tchotchkes at the night market all on a short trip. Chiang Mai is a great place to visit for the budget conscious traveler as the travel costs are low.
Who should go? Honeymooners, couples, families
9. CANADIAN ARCTIC
Why? The Canadia Arctic is the ultimate destination for travelers who crave a level of starkness that only polar regions can provide. But that doesn’t mean the region is devoid of everything but ice - the indigenous experiences offered by small businesses in Yellowknife and Nunavut offer an opportunity for insights into the areas trademark wildlife and aurora-watching.
Who should go? Extreme outdoor enthusiasts with a cold weather love-affair.
10. KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
Why? Montenegro is the hidden treasure of the Adriatic Sea. It was once seen as the poor neighbor of Croatia but is coming into its own with luxurious hotels and a booming hospitality industry. If you’re looking for less glitz and more of a down to earth experience, head to Kotor for impressive landscapes and some of the best kept preserved old towns of the Adriatic coast.
Who should go? Couples looking to relax, Active Travelers