Finding new places to explore in the world is one of our favorite things, especially now that many of us can travel again after a long halt to international movement due to the pandemic (Omicron, please be nice...).
From TikTok to Instagram, the internet is full of inspiration when it comes to making a bucket list on where to visit next, from the best countries for solo travel to alternative city breaks. However, nothing is quite like National Geographic Traveller's annual list of the 35 must-see destinations for the next year.
Every year, 'The Best of the World List’ provides the ultimate guide on the best places and communities to visit on your next travel adventure and this year, it's even more special as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, with 14 World Heritage-designated sites featured on the list.
The list is divided into five categories: Culture, Sustainability, Nature, Adventure and Family. This makes it easier for aspiring globe-trotters to explore the suggested destinations depending on what they value the most when traveling. Plus, there's plenty to choose from with each category including seven entries.
“Whether it’s closer to home, exploring the UK and Europe, or focusing on journeys further afield to destinations that highlight sustainable, environmental and community initiatives, this year’s list gives us an opportunity to celebrate the world as we begin to emerge from the pandemic," says Pat Riddell, editor of National Geographic Traveller UK. "Travel might be slow and cautious to begin with, and while there’s undoubtedly pent-up demand it’s also a chance to consider how and why we travel. These 35 destinations are a good starting place to plan your trips for 2022 and beyond.”
See the full 'Best of the World List’ below, and start planning your next trip. We've already begun!
The Best of the World List 2022
The Giza Pyramids in Greater Cairo, Egypt: one of the top destinations for culture in 2022
CULTURE
Jingmai Mountain, Yunnan, China
Tin Pan Alley, London, England
Hokkaido, Japan
Procida, Italy
Atlanta, Georgia, US
Oslo, Norway
Rome, Italy
Cairo, Egypt
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia: one of the top destinations for nature
SUSTAINABILITY
Ruhr Valley, Germany
Parque Nacional Yasuni, Ecuador
Łódź, Poland
National Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, Oregon/Washington, US
Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique
Adelaide, Australia
Grenoble, France
NATURE
Caprivi Strip, Namibia
Northern Minnesota, United States
Lake Baikal, Russia
Belize Maya Forest Reserve
Victoria, Australia
Kent, England
The Monteverde area in Costa Rica, one of the top destinations for adventure
ADVENTURE
Seine River Bike Trail, Franc
Costa Rica
Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail, New Brunswick, Canada
Palau
Arapahoe Basin, Colorado, US
Taghazout, Morocco
Chankillo, Peru
FAMILY
Danube River Cruise
Lycia, Turkey
Granada, Spain
Bonaire
Eastern Shore, Maryland, US
Nottinghamshire, England
Hadrian’s Wall, UK
