1. New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the southern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses: the North Island (Te Ika-a-Mui) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu). There are also over 600 smaller islands. The largest island nation by area, it lies east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, south of the islands of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. The tectonic uplift and volcanic eruptions have played a significant role in the country’s varied topography and sharp mountain peaks, including the Southern Alps. Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, while Auckland is the most populous city.
Auckland
Auckland is a city in New Zealand that is both old and historic, as well as being the largest and most populous, making it one of the country’s most important tourist destinations. Auckland’s combination of natural beauty and cityscapes attracts visitors for leisure and business alike, all year round thanks to its location by two large harbours.
Auckland offers countless activities and attractions for every type of traveler, providing visitors with a wide range of experiences to choose from. It is known around the world for its abundance of volcanoes, islands, and mountains. Green parks, gardens, and lakes add to the city’s beauty.
Auckland is a hub for adventure sports due to New Zealand’s reputation for adrenaline-fuelled activities. Due to the proximity to the water and the massive harbours, the city is known worldwide for its love affair with boats and the ocean, so much so it is called the ‘City of Sails’ and has dominated America’s Cup in recent years.
Christchurch
The South Island’s third largest city is Christchurch, which is the third largest in New Zealand. The ‘Garden City’ is an international accolade for its combination of English culture and heritage in New Zealand and some of the best gardens in the world. Prior to the English’s arrival in New Zealand, Christchurch was commonly known as Otautahi, a Maori word that signified the site of Tautahi. Serious damage was caused to the city’s historic structures by a series of earthquakes during the 21st century.
Christchurch is home to a variety of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants. The city’s natural beauty is enhanced by the magnificent Avon River, which runs through its Botanical Gardens, which are renowned worldwide.
Christchurch is a well-known stopover and gateway to the Southern Alps because of the excellent connectivity between other regions in New Zealand. The Canterbury region is a great place to enjoy adventure and tourism, such as skiing, dolphin spotting, or simply admiring the serene and exotic natural beauty of the area.
Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand’s South Island’s south-west region, is home to a resort town called Otago. The Queenstown-Lakes District’s seat and biggest town can be found here. An adventurer’s paradise is what Queensland, a beautiful town on the southern island, is known for! Queenstown is a memorable visit because of its plethora of thrill-seeking activities and picturesque attractions.
Queenstown may not be the most commercially and economically active city in New Zealand, but the activities it offers attract visitors from all over the world. Apart from that, it is the place for the highest bungy jump in the country, the largest rope swing in the world, and other exhilarating activities such as sky diving, ziplining and numerous trekking trails through the nearby hills.
2. Puerto rico
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean archipelago and island that has its own authority and is governed as an unincorporated territory by the United States under the commonwealth designation. It is situated approximately 1,000 miles (1,600 km) south of Miami, Florida, between the Dominican Republic in the Greater Antilles and the United States. Virgin Islands in the Lesser Antilles, consist of the eponymous main island and numerous smaller islands, including Vieques, Culebra, and Mona.
Old San Juan
Old San Juan, with its 500 years of history, is without a doubt one of the most iconic and treasured places in Puerto Rico. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets to appreciate the unique architecture and vibrant buildings. Throughout the old city, you’ll find a variety of fun local shops, lively restaurants, and bars.
You can also take guided tours to learn more about the history of the many 500-year-old buildings, local cuisine, and even visit the place where one of the world’s most popular drinks was born, the world-famous piña colada.
Santurce
The Santurce neighborhood, home to the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, among many other galleries and local shops, is located very close to the Condado district and about 20 minutes from Old San Juan. The region is now a hub for arts and culture, with numerous buildings displaying vibrant murals and galleries displaying works by local artists.
Santurce is also passionate about food! At gastronomy parks like Santurce Marketplace, you can find elegant restaurants and small pop-up eateries, all within a vibrant stop that offers tradition, live music, culture, and authentic local food. Farmers sell their fresh produce during the day, consisting of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local dishes, and a block party-style celebration occurs on weekends.
Río Camuy Cave Park
Ro Camuy Cave Park is a unique location where you can admire the beauty of the Northern Karstic region. The third-largest cavern system on the world’s third largest network of caves and underwater reservoirs. Over 10 miles of caves and underground terrain can be explored in Camuy municipality. Cueva Clara is a chamber that is a part of the cave system. Its height of 200 feet and length of 700 feet makes it both dramatic and breathtaking. The caves form a vast network of natural limestone caves and underground waterways that were excavated by the Camuy River, which is the third-largest underground river in the world.
3. Italy
Italy is a country located in Southern and Western Europe. Comprising a peninsula that extends into the Mediterranean Sea, with the Alps as its northern land border, and almost 800 islands, including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy is bordered by France on the west, Switzerland and Austria on the north, Slovenia on the east, and the enclaves of Vatican City and San Marino on the other side. The area covered by it is 301,340 km2 (116,350 sq mi), and it is the tenth-largest country in Europe by area, with nearly 59 million inhabitants. Rome is the capital and largest city in Italy, while other significant cities are Milan, Naples, Turin, Palermo, Bologna, Florence, Genoa, and Venice.
Rome
The capital and largest city of Italy is Rome. With a history that goes back over 2,500 years, it features captivating landmarks, ancient ruins, awe-inspiring art, and a vibrant modern culture. The city’s central location makes it a great place to start exploring the rest of Italy. Rome is known for its rich history as the center of the Roman Empire, iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Renaissance art treasures, and delicious Italian cuisine.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway have made Rome a popular destination with its romantic ambiance, which features picturesque streets, charming piazzas, and beautiful fountains. Rome is an ideal destination for art lovers, boasting numerous museums, galleries, and churches that are home to masterpieces by famous artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Siena
Sienna is situated in the center of Tuscany and is surrounded by hills and valleys. The city exhibits a majestic medieval charm and is filled with relics from throughout history. Siena is currently flourishing as a center of medieval and Renaissance art and culture.
Commercial and banking activities have been a significant part of the city’s history, as it was a major banking center during the 13th and 14th centuries. The Monte dei Paschi is the oldest bank in the world, having operated continuously since 1472 (553 years ago) and is located in Siena.
Milan
Milan is a city situated in northern Italy, and serves as the regional capital of Lombardy. It is also the second-most-populated city proper in Italy after Rome. Being the capital of the Lombardy region, it is conveniently connected to other major Italian cities, making it a convenient travel hub. Milan is a renowned fashion capital worldwide and hosts prestigious fashion events like Milan Fashion Week. This place is a haven for fashion and offers a chance to witness the latest trends and styles.
Milan is home to many historical landmarks that captivate travelers. The artistic treasures of the city are a key element of its cultural heritage. Numerous high-end fashion boutiques and designer stores can be found in Milan, which is known as the fashion capital. The Quadrilatero della Moda is a popular fashion district with luxurious brands and internationally renowned designers. It is a compelling destination for travelers from all walks of life due to its cultural richness, fashion-forward reputation, and convenient location.
4. Japan
Japan is situated on an island in East Asia. It is situated in the Pacific Ocean off the northeast coast of the Asian mainland. It is surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the west and stretches from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea in the south. Tokyo is the capital and largest city of the country.
Tokyo
Tokyo, the country’s capital, is a mixture of various elements. This city’s reputation is based on its technological prowess, its eccentric pop culture, and its fusion of tradition and modernity. The variety and adventure that every area offers makes it the perfect destination for tourists seeking variety and adventure.
Tokyo, located in South-East Japan, boasts not only impressive skyscrapers, impeccable roads, and architecture, but also forests, traditional shrines, and cherry blossoms in spring. Tokyo is an ideal destination for both poets and technologists due to its combination of poetic wonder and technological marvel.
Tokyo is best perceived as a collection of cities with distinct characters and vibes, not as a single city. The main tourist attractions in Tokyo are the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, the shopping districts of Harajuku and Shibuya (one of the busiest intersections in the world), the traditional Meiji and Sensoji Shrines, and of course, the cherry blossom flowers in April.
Highlights of the cuisine include sashimi (raw seafood with seasoning), ramen (noodles cooked in broth), and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), which can be found on the streets of Tokyo. One can find peace and quiet in the Meiji and Sensoji shrines, and tradition in the shadows of the skyscrapers in the form of traditional festivals like the Shunki Reitasai in the spring, and at the same time get dazzled by the electronic splendour of the Akihabara district. In Ikebukuro and Shibuya, there are Pokmon Centers for gamers and visual culture enthusiasts, as well as regular anime conventions. Tokyo is known for its arcades and recreational gaming cafes, which show its commitment to the virtual world and technology.
Kyoto
While Japan doesn’t hesitate to embrace modernity, Kyoto still retains traces of traditional and ancient Japanese culture. Kyoto is the place to go for a rich and wholesome cultural experience since every street, mountain, and shrine has something to offer.
The cultural roots of Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, are what set it apart from other places in Japan. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, Kyoto is an incredibly tranquil place filled with more than a thousand temples, vestiges of traditional Japanese culture, and gardens that change colours with the seasons.
Kyoto is a city that welcomes bicycles, making it a great place for tourists to explore. The mountainous regions around it are home to many hiking trails and exploration sites that were designed for adventurers. To sum up, Kyoto is the ideal choice for the relaxed traveler who wants to discover traditional culture and adventure.
Osaka
The Kansai region of Honshu, Japan is where you can find Osaka, a designated city. Osaka Prefecture’s capital and most populous city is located in this area, and is followed by Tokyo and Yokohama as the three most populous cities in Japan. With more than 19 million residents, this is the 10th-largest urban area in the world and the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan.
Osaka’s charm may seem omnipresent at first, hidden among large buildings and business centers, but it offers pleasures for all types of individuals, from connoisseurs to children. At first glance, Osaka may appear to be an ordinary metropolis, with large concrete buildings, busy professionals, large signs, and bustling traffic, but it has a lot more to offer. When it was in its prime, Osaka was Japan’s economic center, and it boasts a rich past that has something for everyone. Osaka is home to everything from Universal Studios to pachinko machines and arcades, as well as cultural relics and picturesque riverside areas.
5. Paris
Paris is both the capital and largest city in France. In 2022, Paris is the 30th-densest city in the world and the fourth most populous city in the European Union. Paris has been a major center of finance, diplomacy, commerce, culture, fashion, and gastronomy since the 17th century. The City of Light became known as the City of Light in the 19th century due to Paris’ prominence in the arts and sciences and its early adoption of extensive street lighting.
Eiffel Tower
Paris is a city where the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of France, is perhaps the most well-known. Visitors can visit it on its three levels, which are located on the Champ de Mars space. The evening show has beautiful lights that sparkle for about 5 minutes every hour.
There are three levels of the tower – the first two floors have restaurants and the third floor has an observation deck. Built initially as a temporary structure, the tower is at present amongst the most visited sites in the world and has turned into a celebrated example of a one-off style of architecture.
The French Revolution’s centenary was commemorated by building this 300-foot building as a monument. The ‘Iron Lady’ is still standing tall despite initial opposition, even though Marvel was originally intended to be a temporary installation at the Universal Exposition of 1889. The city officials acknowledged its significance as a radio-telegraph station; now it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the French capital.
Notre Dame
A classic symbol of French Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has a history that spans centuries. Located on the Île de la Cité Island, this cathedral is amongst the most famous ones over the world and boasts of a grand interior with stained rose windows, relics, bells and organs.
The cathedral, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary (“Our Lady”), is recognized as a superb example of French Gothic architecture. Several attributes set it apart from the earlier Romanesque style, including its pioneering use of the rib vault and flying buttress, its enormous and colourful rose windows, and the naturalism and abundance of its sculptural decoration. Notre-Dame is known for its three pipe organs, including one that is historic, and its magnificent church bells.
In April 2019, a fire broke out underneath the roof of this Roman Catholic Church, resulting in the destruction of both the roof and its famous spire. The restoration of Notre Dame is currently causing it to be closed to the public.
Louvre
The French museum of the Louvre, which is elegant and lavish in style, is a landmark monument in Paris that holds the title of being the world’s largest museum. The Louvre Palace on the banks of the Seine is the location for its impressive art collections, which include the Mona Lisa painted by Leonardo da Vinci.
The museum is located in the Louvre Palace, which was originally constructed between the late 12th and 13th century under Philip II. In the museum’s basement, there are remnants of the medieval Louvre fortress that can be seen. The fortress became the primary residence of the French kings in 1546 due to urban expansion, which ultimately lost its defensive function.
The museum is divided into sections for Egyptian antiquities, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman antiquities, Islamic art, sculptures, decorative arts, paintings, prints, and drawings. Besides the artworks here, the glass pyramid which serves as the main entrance to the museum and the Inverted Pyramid built as a part of the Grand Louvre plan are the other star attractions of this place. Other historical sites in this area include the Carrousel and Tuileries Gardens, as well as an open-air sculpture museum that leads to the Louvre.
6. Thailand
Thailand, a Southeast Asian country, is a popular tourist destination in Asia due to its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and backpacker-friendly atmosphere. One of the best countries to explore this region is one that shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Thailand is full of immersive experiences, whether you’re seeking vibrant city life in Bangkok, historical sites in Ayutthaya, trekking through the jungles of Chiang Mai or enjoying the repose of the Phi Phi Islands.
Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and Koh Samui are all located in Thailand, which is a top beach holiday destination in the world. These beaches provide stunning views, making them ideal for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
Bangkok
The capital and most populous city of Thailand is Bangkok, which is also known by its Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, or simply as Krung Thep. Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a city that never shuts down, with a modern-day mix of diverse cultures and faiths. In harmony with temples and monasteries, towering skyscrapers are situated here. The competition between luxury malls and shopping centers and street bazaars and floating markets is fierce.
Flashy nightclubs, rooftops, go-go bars, bright neon light signs, and cheap drinks are the mainstays of Bangkok’s nightlife. On the flip side, it encompasses cabaret shows, Muay Thai and dance exhibitions, and even cultural walking tours. Vendors provide a wide range of products, ranging from clothing and handicrafts to exotic foods. Bangkok’s culture is heavily influenced by food, and tourists can indulge in delectable Thai dishes at street food stalls and restaurants. The city’s culinary scene is well-known.
Bangkok has a large number of hotels, both luxurious and inexpensive, located throughout the city. As time passes, the city has become more accommodating to backpackers, with the emergence of numerous hostels, dormitories, and homestays.
Koh Samui
The east coast of Thailand is where Ko Samui (or Koh Samui), often shortened to Samui, is located. Surat Thani Province is the geographical location of Ko Samui in the Chumphon Archipelago, but it has since been granted municipal status and is now self-governing locally.
Samui Island, which was previously only open to persevering travelers, has now become one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. The beauty of Koh Samui is derived from its stunning beaches, long coastline, dense mountainous forests, and luxurious resorts.
Water sports, family-friendly activities, and romantic sunsets are just some of the activities offered at the island’s beaches, making for a beach experience that is tailored to your preferences. The Friday Night Walking Street Market, boutique shops, beachfront dining, and the famous Fisherman’s Village at Bophut Beach are all reasons why visiting here is a must.
Koh Samui’s tropical escape is made possible by its blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and numerous activities. The island is a year-round destination because it has a tropical climate with three seasons.
Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and has everything it has to offer. In southern Thailand, it can be found on the coast of the Andaman Sea. The characteristics of Phuket include golden beaches, numerous offshore islands, lively markets, a high-energy nightlife, and exhilarating watersports. It is also a beach destination that is easily accessible in Thailand.
Patong Beach accompanies those who enjoy cheap, loud, and crazy, even after the sun sets. Bangla Road, which has many bars and street food vendors, becomes lively at night. For those who shy away from dizzying bright lights and alcohol, they may end up at Cabaret shows or even the ever-popular street markets.
Phuket Town has retained its Chinese and Sino-Portuguese heritage through its cuisine, cooking styles, architecture, and historical museums and buildings. Chalong Wat and Jui Tui Shrine, both Buddhist temples and important Chinese places of worship, embody the coexistence of different religions and cultures.
With many high-end resorts along most beaches, hotels, luxury shopping outlets, and spas, Phuket is a haven for those looking to splurge big on their vacation and look good while doing it. Phuket, one of Thailand’s most popular islands, is relatively small and accessible by tuk-tuk.
7. Indonesia
Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania, located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The region is comprised of over 17,000 islands, which encompass Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and parts of Borneo and New Guinea. The 14th largest country by area and the largest archipelagic state on the planet, Indonesia covers an area of 1,904,569 square kilometers. With a population of over 280 million, Indonesia is the fourth-most populous country in the world and the most populous Muslim-majority country. Java, the island that has the most people in the world, is home to over half of the country’s population.
Bali
Bali, a province of Indonesia, is in the southwest of the Lesser Sunda Islands. The provincial capital, Denpasar, is a city with the highest population in the Lesser Sunda Islands and the second largest in Eastern Indonesia, after Makassar.
Bali, the island known as the jewel of Indonesia, is situated to the west of Java in the Lesser Sunda Islands. Scenic rice terraces, fragrant cuisine, stunning beaches, and a rich culture and tradition are what make it world-renowned. Bali is a perfect place to combine leisure and adventure, with some of the world’s finest coral reefs, waterfalls, and retreats. Bali is a place where people from all over the world come to lose themselves, combining spiritual awakening with hard-partying in a dizzying combination.
The island offers some of the most stunning sunsets and sunrises, enough to captivate and entice you to never leave this place. Home to the coral reefs of Tulamben, the mountain peaks of Kintamani, the beaches and scenic routes of Seminyak and Kuta, with ancient temples and traditional village life of Ubud, Bali’s charm is boundless, as are its opportunities for fun.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is an island situated near Bali in the southeast of Indonesia, and it creates its own district within Klungkung Regency. Bali and the island are separated by the Badung Strait.
Nusa Penida is one of Indonesia’s hidden treasures, and it’s the most unique of the three Nusa Islands and isn’t widely explored. The area is a hidden treasure that boasts rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nusa Penida is a peaceful escape from Bali’s bustling tourist spots, catering to adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Nusa Penida is regarded as one of the most beautiful spots because of its dramatic cliffs, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and crystal-clear waters. Kelingking Beach is a must-go to because of its T-Rex-shaped cliff and turquoise waters. Nusa Penida has better infrastructure for tourism than its two sister islands, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, which are smaller. This island is more picturesque than its sister due to its cliff formation and number of Hindu temples. An adventurer’s paradise awaits in Nusa Penida with its rugged charm and unspoiled landscapes, providing a unique and authentic experience far from the more touristy spots of Bali.
Yogyakarta
The Special Region of Yogyakarta in Indonesia has a capital city named Yogyakarta, which can be found in the south-central area of Java island. As the only Indonesian royal city still ruled by a monarchy, Yogyakarta is regarded as an important centre for classical Javanese fine arts and culture such as ballet, batik textiles, drama, literature, music, poetry, silversmithing, visual arts, and wayang puppetry.
Yogyakarta is situated near the Indian Ocean to the south and the fiery active volcano Mount Merapi to the north, making it the location of Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex, Prambanan. Jogja’s multicultural mecca status is further highlighted by its close proximity to the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur.
The center of revolutionary thought against Dutch colonialism was Yogyakarta, which played a significant role in Indonesia’s independence struggle. The city’s contribution to the independence struggle led to its special status being granted to remain ruled by a monarchy.
Yogyakarta is a great example of Indonesia’s diverse culinary offerings. Small kiosks selling street food cram into every nook and cranny, selling all sorts of mouth-watering sweet and savoury Javanese delights and is sure to delight any foodie that comes to Jogja.