Travel is about more than seeing new places. For many living abroad, it’s a way to connect with the world, find belonging, and experience cultures that show how diverse life can be.
At Remitly, we understand that the immigrant experience comes with both challenges and opportunities. Traveling, whether to see family, explore roots, or take a well-earned break, can make the world feel more welcoming. Still, choosing where to go isn’t always simple. That’s why we’ve created this guide with 15 destinations across continents and travel styles, each with its own story to help you find inspiration for your next trip.
Natural wonders that take your breath away
Some travel destinations are so striking that they make you stop in your tracks.
Iceland’s Ring Road: glaciers, waterfalls, and endless horizons
Driving along Iceland’s Ring Road feels like moving through a series of natural stages. One moment you’re at the foot of a waterfall, the next on black volcanic sands stretching into the horizon. You’ll even see glaciers glint in the distance, reminders of how much of Iceland is shaped by ice.
Local towns offer fresh seafood and hot spring baths, perfect after a day of exploring. In summer, the midnight sun means almost endless daylight, while in winter the Northern Lights sweep across the sky. It’s best to explore by car, and the weather is famously unpredictable, so don’t forget layers.
Patagonia: hiking at the edge of the world
Patagonia, shared by Chile and Argentina, feels wild and endless. Mountains rise above clear lakes, glaciers slide into valleys, and open spaces stretch further than you can imagine.
Hiking is the main attraction here. Torres del Paine in Chile and Los Glaciares in Argentina are two of the most famous parks, with trails for all levels. You’ll see condors flying overhead, guanacos on the hillsides, and sometimes even pumas.
The best season is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, from November to March.
Maldives: life above and below the water
The Maldives are often known for luxury hotels, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to visit. Many local islands now have family guesthouses, giving travelers more choice and a chance to see everyday life.
Under the water, the coral reefs are full of color. You might swim next to turtles, watch schools of fish, or dive with rays. Above the surface, calm lagoons are perfect for kayaking or just floating in the warm sea.
The dry season, from November to April, is the best time for clear skies. But even in the rainy season, showers often pass quickly, and the islands stay just as beautiful.
Cultural immersion experiences
Vacation is about the moments that stay with you, the smell of street food, the sound of music in the square, or the feeling of stepping into a temple for the first time. These are the places where culture wraps around you.
Kyoto: traditions blooming through the seasons
Kyoto isn’t a city you just see, it’s one you feel. Temples and shrines pop up on quiet streets, and in Gion, you might still hear the soft steps of a geisha heading to work.
The city changes with the seasons. Spring turns it pink with cherry blossoms, while autumn sets the hillsides on fire with reds and golds. If you visit at different times of year, you’ll almost feel like you’re in a new city each time.
Respect really matters in Kyoto. So, remember to take your shoes off at the right moments, bow when greeting, and keep quiet in temples. It shows care, and it makes the whole experience more meaningful.
Morocco: souks, spices, and the silence of the desert
If you like a bit of chaos (the good kind), Morocco is unforgettable. Marrakech’s main square comes alive at night with music, storytellers, and food sizzling on every corner. In Fez, you’ll get lost in the medina, on purpose, and stumble across people working leather and textiles just like their grandparents did.
But Morocco isn’t just busy streets. A hammam will melt away the noise, and a night under the stars in the Sahara is pure magic. Whether you’re in a simple tent or a fancy camp, waking up to desert silence is something you don’t forget.
A quick tip: dress modestly, take your time bargaining, and try not to worry if the souk feels like a maze; that’s part of the fun.
Peru: from Cusco’s cobbles to Machu Picchu’s heights
Cusco is the kind of city where every street feels like history. Cobblestones, colorful markets, and colonial buildings sit on top of Inca foundations. Just being there is a lesson in layers of culture.
Of course, most people come for Machu Picchu, and yes, it’s worth every step. You can hike the famous Inca Trail, take a different trek like Salkantay, or even hop on a train if you’d rather save your energy. Whichever way you choose to get there, seeing the citadel appear out of the mist feels surreal.
One thing to remember: Cusco sits high up in the Andes, so the altitude can hit you. Give yourself a couple of days to adjust, sip coca tea, and enjoy wandering the markets before heading out on big hikes.
Cities that never sit still
Some cities become captivating destinations simply because of the non-stop energy and mix of tradition and modernity in exciting ways.
Singapore: a world of the future with flavors of the past
Singapore is all about contrasts. Sleek skyscrapers rise above neighborhoods where traditions are carefully kept. In a single day, you might wander through the glowing Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, then sit down at a hawker centre for incredible street food that costs just a few dollars.
It’s also surprisingly green. From the UNESCO-listed Botanic Gardens to shady park trails, the city always finds space for nature.
Dubai: where modern ambition meets desert tradition
Dubai is often described in terms of size, the tallest building, huge malls, and bold designs. But it also has a quieter side. Traditional wooden boats still cross Dubai Creek, and spice markets fill the air with saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom.
Seeing both sides makes the trip richer. You might spend the morning on Jumeirah Beach, gazing at the Burj Al Arab, then head to the historic Al Fahidi district in the afternoon. Many travelers also stop here on their way to other destinations, as Dubai is a major hub.
Barcelona: a city built on imagination and sunlight
Barcelona’s personality shines through its creativity. Antoni Gaudí’s buildings look like they were dreamed into life, from the flowing lines of Casa Batlló to the still-rising towers of the Sagrada Família. But the city’s soul lives in its neighborhoods as much as its landmarks.
In the Gothic Quarter, narrow streets open into sunny squares filled with cafés. Along the beach, locals gather after work to swim, play, or just relax. Food ties everything together: tapas with friends, seafood fresh from the market, and dinners that stretch late into the night.
Journeys off the map
Not every great place is on the classic tourist trail. Some destinations are less crowded but just as rewarding, giving you new perspectives and space to breathe.
Faroe Islands: cliffs, puffins, and quiet Nordic charm
Halfway between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands feel like another world. Small villages with grass-roofed houses sit against cliffs that drop straight into the Atlantic. In summer, puffins nest on the rocks, drawing bird lovers from across the globe.
Getting around isn’t complicated, but you’ll need a car; buses are limited, and places to stay are few, so book ahead. The reward is incredible hikes, wide horizons, and a sense of calm that stays with you. You’ll also notice how Faroese culture remains close to the sea, with fishing, music, and storytelling still part of everyday life.
Bhutan: a kingdom where happiness is the measure of wealth
Bhutan does tourism differently. The country values Gross National Happiness over Gross Domestic Product, and this shows in how it treats visitors. Mass tourism isn’t the goal; sustainable travel is.
Everyone books through guided tours, which cover hotels, meals, and cultural activities. It may feel less spontaneous, but it makes the experience richer while supporting local communities. Highlights include the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery, fortress-like dzongs, and colorful festivals.
Madagascar: wildlife you won’t find anywhere else
Madagascar is unlike anywhere else. Its isolation has created wildlife unique in the whole world—lemurs jumping through forests, giant baobab trees rising like sculptures, and bright chameleons blending into the leaves.
Travel here can be challenging. Roads are rough, and journeys take time, but every stop brings something special: a busy market, a village walk, or a stay in a small eco-lodge. Many tours focus on conservation, so choosing carefully means helping protect fragile habitats while supporting local families.
Tropical paradise escapes
When all you want is warmth, color, and life at a slower pace, these tropical spots give you sunshine with plenty to explore.
Bali: wellness, temples, and hidden valleys
Bali’s charm is more than just beaches; it’s the mix of energy and peace, art and spirituality, nature and people. In Ubud, rice terraces roll into the distance, and temples fill with daily offerings of flowers and incense. Wellness retreats and yoga centres attract those seeking calm, while surfers and sunseekers gather on the southern coast.
For a quieter experience, head to Sidemen or the nearby Nusa Islands, where village life moves gently and traditions feel stronger. Remember to follow temple dress codes and avoid single-use plastics to show respect and help keep these places special.
Cook Islands: island time in its purest form
In the South Pacific, the Cook Islands feel like the definition of slow living. Days move at the community’s pace, and visitors are quickly swept into it.
Rarotonga, the main island, is lively with beaches, markets, and trails into its volcanic centre. Aitutaki, a short flight away, offers one of the world’s most striking lagoons, turquoise water dotted with tiny islands.
Costa Rica: jungles alive with color and sound
Costa Rica shows how much variety can fit into one country. Rainforests echo with monkeys, sea turtles nest on beaches, and volcanoes rise above coffee fields. Wherever you go, nature is close.
Adventure is everywhere. Zip-lining through the canopy, surfing on two coasts, or walking through cloud forests thick with orchids. For wildlife lovers, it’s unforgettable. Spotting a sloth or watching bright scarlet macaws fly overhead is the kind of memory you carry for years.
Planning your dream trip
Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming, but it gets easier when you start with travel destinations on your bucket list that excite you most, like wide landscapes, rich traditions, or lively cities. Think about your budget and timing too: some places shine in certain seasons, while others are cheaper off-peak.
Flight comparison tools and alerts like Skyscanner, Kayak and Google Flights can help you catch deals, and it’s always worth checking visa or vaccination requirements early, especially for destinations that need more preparation.
FAQ
How do I choose which destination to visit first?
Start by matching your interests with the destination. If you love hiking, Patagonia might appeal to you, while food lovers may prefer Morocco or Singapore. Then consider your budget and how much time you can realistically take off.
What’s the best time of year to visit these destinations?
It depends entirely on the place. Iceland shines in summer for road trips, while Kyoto’s cherry blossoms make spring magical. Remember to research seasonality before you book.
How can I travel to these places on a budget?
Try to look beyond luxury hotels. Guesthouses, homestays, and off-season travel all cut costs. Eating where locals eat is both cheaper and more authentic.
Do I need special vaccinations or visas?
Some countries require them, especially in South America, Africa, and Asia. It helps to check travel.state.gov for travel advice well before departure.
What should I pack for such diverse destinations?
Layered clothing works for most climates, and a universal adapter keeps devices charged. Comfortable shoes are essential, and keep your travel insurance documents close at hand.