Travel is about more than just seeing new places. For many, it’s a way to connect with the world, find a sense of belonging, and experience cultures that show how diverse life can be.
At Remitly, we understand that living and working abroad comes with both challenges and opportunities. Traveling, whether to visit family, explore your roots, or take a well-deserved 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 Will Take Your Breath Away
Some travel destinations are so striking they make you stop in your tracks. These places showcase the raw power and beauty of the natural world.
Iceland’s Ring Road: Glaciers, Waterfalls, and Endless Horizons
Driving along Iceland’s Ring Road feels like moving through a series of epic natural stages. One moment you’re at the foot of a massive waterfall, the next you’re on black volcanic sands stretching to the horizon. You’ll see glaciers glinting in the distance, reminders of how much of Iceland is shaped by ice.
Local towns offer fresh seafood and geothermal hot springs, perfect after a day of exploring. In summer, the midnight sun means almost endless daylight for your adventures. In winter, the Northern Lights dance across the sky. It’s best to explore by car, but the weather is famously unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers.
Patagonia: Hiking at the Edge of the World
Patagonia, shared by Chile and Argentina, feels wild and endless. Jagged mountains rise above crystal-clear lakes, glaciers carve through valleys, and open plains stretch farther than you can imagine. It’s a dream destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Hiking is the main event here. Torres del Paine in Chile and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina are two of the most famous parks, with trails for every skill level. You’ll likely see condors flying overhead, guanacos on the hillsides, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a puma. The best season to visit is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, from November to March.
The Maldives: Life Above and Below the Water
The Maldives are often known for luxurious overwater bungalows, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to visit. Many local islands now have family-run guesthouses, giving travelers more choice and a chance to experience everyday life in this island nation.
Under the water, the coral reefs are bursting with color. You might swim alongside sea turtles, watch schools of tropical fish, or dive with manta rays. Above the surface, calm lagoons are perfect for kayaking or just floating in the warm, clear 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.
Experiences for Cultural Immersion
A vacation is about the moments that stay with you: the smell of street food, the sound of music in a historic square, or the feeling of stepping into an ancient temple. These are the places where culture surrounds you.
Kyoto: Where Ancient Traditions Bloom
Kyoto isn’t a city you just see; it’s one you feel. Temples and shrines appear on quiet streets, and in the Gion district, you might still hear the soft steps of a geisha on her way to an appointment. The city is a living museum of Japanese culture.
Kyoto changes with the seasons. Spring turns the city pink with cherry blossoms, while autumn sets the hillsides ablaze with red and gold maple leaves. Visiting at different times of the year can feel like you’re in a completely new city each time. Remember to be respectful: take your shoes off when required, bow when greeting someone, and keep your voice down in temples.
Morocco: Souks, Spices, and the Silence of the Desert
If you enjoy a bit of sensory overload (the good kind), Morocco is unforgettable. The main square in Marrakech, Djemaa el-Fna, comes alive at night with musicians, storytellers, and food sizzling on every corner. In Fez, you can get lost in the winding alleys of the medina, where artisans craft leather and textiles just as their ancestors did.
But Morocco isn’t just busy streets. A visit to a traditional hammam (steam bath) will melt away the noise, and a night under the stars in the Sahara is pure magic. Waking up to the complete silence of the desert is an experience you won’t soon forget. A quick tip: dress modestly, take your time bargaining in the markets, and don’t worry if the souk feels like a maze—that’s part of the fun.
Peru: From Cusco’s Cobblestones to Machu Picchu’s Heights
Cusco feels like walking through history. Cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and Spanish colonial buildings are built on top of ancient Inca foundations. Simply being there is a lesson in the layers of culture that have shaped Peru.
Of course, most people come for Machu Picchu, and it is worth every step. You can hike the famous Inca Trail, take an alternative trek like the Salkantay, or hop on a train if you’d rather save your energy. Whichever way you get there, seeing the lost city appear out of the mist feels surreal. Remember that Cusco sits at a high altitude, so give yourself a few days to acclimate, sip coca tea, and enjoy the city before any big hikes.
Cities That Never Sit Still
Some cities become captivating destinations because of their nonstop energy, mixing tradition and modernity in exciting ways.
Singapore: A Glimpse of the Future with Flavors from the Past
Singapore is a city of contrasts. Sleek skyscrapers rise above neighborhoods where traditions are carefully preserved. In a single day, you can wander through the glowing Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, then sit down at a hawker center for incredible street food that costs just a few dollars.
The city is also surprisingly green. From the UNESCO-listed Botanic Gardens to shady park trails, Singapore always finds space for nature. It’s an easy city to navigate, with an efficient public transit system that makes exploring simple and affordable.
Dubai: Where Modern Ambition Meets Desert Tradition
Dubai is often described by its superlatives: the tallest building, enormous malls, and bold architectural designs. But it also has a quieter side. Traditional wooden boats, known as abras, still ferry people across Dubai Creek, and spice markets fill the air with the aroma of saffron and cardamom.
Seeing both sides makes the trip richer. You might spend the morning on Jumeirah Beach looking at the Burj Al Arab, then head to the historic Al Fahidi district in the afternoon. Dubai is also a major international travel hub, making it a convenient and popular stopover for Americans traveling to Asia or Africa.
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 existence, from the flowing lines of Casa Batlló to the still-unfinished towers of the Sagrada Família. But the city’s soul lives in its neighborhoods as much as its famous landmarks.
In the Gothic Quarter, narrow medieval streets open into sunny plazas filled with cafes. Along the beach, locals gather after work to swim, play, or just relax. Food ties it all together: sharing tapas with friends, enjoying fresh seafood from the market, and having dinners that stretch late into the warm night.
Journeys Off the Beaten Path
Not every great place is on the main tourist trail. Some destinations are less crowded but just as rewarding, offering 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 are set against dramatic cliffs that drop straight into the Atlantic. In the summer, puffins nest on the rocky shores, drawing bird watchers from across the globe.
Getting around requires a car, as public transit is limited. Places to stay are few, so it’s wise to book ahead. The reward is incredible hikes, wide-open horizons, and a sense of calm that stays with you.
Bhutan: A Kingdom Where Happiness Is the Measure of Wealth
Bhutan approaches tourism differently. The country famously prioritizes Gross National Happiness over Gross Domestic Product, and this philosophy shows in how it welcomes visitors. Mass tourism isn’t the goal; sustainable, mindful travel is.
All visitors book through guided tours, which cover hotels, meals, and cultural activities. This may feel less spontaneous, but it makes for a richer experience while supporting local communities. Highlights include the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery and colorful festivals known as tsechus.
Madagascar: Wildlife You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Madagascar’s long isolation has resulted in wildlife that is unique in the entire world. Lemurs leap through forests, giant baobab trees rise like sculptures, and brightly colored chameleons blend into the leaves.
Travel here can be challenging. Roads are rough, and journeys take time, but every stop brings something special. Many tours focus on conservation, so choosing carefully means you can help 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 offer sunshine with plenty to explore.
Bali: Wellness, Temples, and Hidden Valleys
Bali’s charm is more than just its beaches; it’s a unique mix of energy and peace, art and spirituality. In Ubud, terraced rice paddies roll into the distance, and temples fill with daily offerings of flowers and incense. Wellness retreats and yoga centers 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 at a gentle pace. Remember to follow temple dress codes and help keep the island beautiful by being mindful of your environmental impact.
Cook Islands: Island Time in Its Purest Form
Located 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 the relaxed rhythm. Rarotonga, the main island, has lively markets and trails into its volcanic center. Aitutaki, a short flight away, offers one of the world’s most stunning lagoons—a vast expanse of turquoise water dotted with tiny islands.
Costa Rica: Jungles Alive with Color and Sound
Costa Rica shows how much natural diversity can fit into one small country. Rainforests echo with howler monkeys, sea turtles nest on protected beaches, and volcanoes rise above coffee fields. Adventure is everywhere: zip-lining through the jungle canopy, surfing on two different coasts, or walking through misty cloud forests. For wildlife lovers, it’s unforgettable.
Planning Your Dream Trip
Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming, but it gets easier when you start with what excites you most, whether it’s vast landscapes, rich traditions, or lively cities. Consider your budget and timing as well; some places shine in certain seasons, while others are more affordable during the off-peak months.
Flight comparison tools like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights can help you find deals. It’s also important to check visa and 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 to a destination. If you love hiking, Patagonia might be for you. Food lovers may prefer Morocco or Singapore. Then, consider your budget and how much time you can take off from work.
What’s the best time of year to visit these destinations?
It depends entirely on the place. Iceland shines in the summer for road trips, while Kyoto’s cherry blossoms make spring magical. Always research the best season for your chosen destination before you book.
How can I travel to these places on a budget?
Look beyond luxury hotels. Guesthouses, homestays, and traveling during the off-season can 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’s helpful to check the U.S. Department of State’s travel website for advice well before your departure.
What should I pack for such diverse destinations?
Layered clothing works for most climates, and a universal adapter will keep your devices charged. Comfortable shoes are essential for any trip. Also, be sure to have a copy of your travel insurance documents handy.