Has wanderlust returned to transform your mundane routines into memorable experiences? Perhaps not, but Tripadvisor is back and stopping at nothing to provide us enough fodder to mull over for future travel plans. Much like life, there’s nothing certain about which travel destination will rule the roost, and this year is no different. Bali is the most popular destination in the world, according to the 2021 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards by toppling London from the top spot to second place and having jumped three places to be the most sought-after destination this year. It could also be for after a disastrous 2020; the world wants to unwind in a haven of peace and lush tranquility for which Bali is recognized. The following list includes some iconic, some expected, and few can’t-miss destinations that continue to remain at the top of travelers’ wish lists:
11. Hoi An, Vietnam
In its ancient element, one must go to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and experience it on foot to experience Vietnam. The town is full of a well-preserved complex of heritage houses and pagodas. A must-see experience is on the 14th day of each lunar month when the town trades its electric lights for traditional colored lanterns. Hoi An is also home to Southeast Asia’s best beaches that are uncrowded with clean sands, warm, inviting waters, and uninterrupted views.
10. Istanbul, Turkey
There are only a few reasons why one should travel to Istanbul, a few of which are over 2500 years of history, culture, traditions, amazing landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking views. If that’s exactly what you look for in a vacation, then this fast-paced cultural melting pot should be on your travel-to ist.
9. Barcelona, Spain
Speaking out of the experience, the minute you set foot in Las Ramblas, you feel like you belong to the place that’s interestingly both a beach and a mountain. From Europe’s best-preserved Gothic Quarter to Europe’s warmest people, you will enjoy little things, from trendy exhibitions, cold beers, and folkloric festivals.
8. Bangkok, Thailand
Think Bangkok- think food, shopping, frolic, and loads of communicative vendors. Spend your days shopping at the local markets, visit elaborate Buddhist temples, and by night you will be dancing the hours away at some of the best nightclubs in the world.
7. Crete, Greece
There are several beaches in the world but Crete truly offers a magnificent atmosphere of its own. The best Mediterranean food, private tours to Knossos Palace and Heraklion museum, a day in Chania like Zorba the Greek…it’s simply the perfect vacation!
6. Hanoi, Vietnam
To experience Vietnam in its truest element head straight to Hanoi that harbors traditional Vietnamese culture in all the corners of the city. Visitors get a dose of everything from temples, ancient citadels, unique theatre, and remarkable wilderness just outside the city.
5. Paris, France
Everyone goes to France for that one perfect picture against the Eiffel Tower but ends up falling for the city’s grand boulevards, falling in love with the food eaten in tiny cafes, bistros, and mind-blowing brasseries. While you will go to the Louvre museum and the Notre Dame, do not forget to let loose at the Les Puces flea markets too.
4. Rome, Italy
The Eternal City moniker is given to Rome for a reason. It’s always going to be on such lists; it’s the best destination to go to when pressed for time; it’s small enough to walk around and see many things in one day easily. From the Colosseum to the port of Ostia Antica to majestic Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel, Rome brims with ancient history and gives you a taste of La Dolce Vita Rome, the sweet Italian way of life.
3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
This city is a traveler’s dream. From out-of-the-world attractions, amusement parks to breathtaking historic sites, futuristic architecture, and active nightlife, there is so much to do in Dubai. This unique city is a human-made wonder filled with amazing landscapes made up of palm-shaped islands and some of the world’s tallest buildings.
2. London, United Kingdom
London is not a place; it’s a feeling. If you want to feel great, energized, happy, and even overwhelmed, London should be your home for a few days. It encapsulates many worlds in one with Shoreditch’s swaggering style to Camden’s punky vibe and chic Portobello Road. You can do it all here- visit royal or historical sites with the history buff, enjoy a beer or two in a traditional British pub, or savor delights in Michelin-starred restaurants. No two days are the same, and that’s the best part.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Postcard-like beauty, Photoshop-like perfection, the sun certainly shines differently on this Indonesian paradise. The bustling street of Seminyak are just as fun as the relaxation offered in Ubud, the perfect place to see a cultural dance performance, take a batik or silver-smithing workshop. The stunning Nusa Dua will make you never want to go home. When in Bali, do visit Kelingking Beach, Sekumpul Waterfalls, and Mount Batur.
[Via: Tripadvisor]
