CNN Travel is the latest to weigh in on what destinations people should be travelling to this year, looking to places that are a little more laid back, and off the beaten track.
Listing the destinations alphabetically, Adelaide (pictured) takes top spot, noted as being a ‘microcosm of everything that makes Australia special’ with its beaches, vineyards, wildlife and food and drink.
For the more intrepid traveller, it recommends Algeria, while Tanzania’s Arusha makes the list ahead of the opening of Dr Jane’s Dream: The Goodall Centre for Hope.
Spain’s Aragon makes the list, cited as being an excellent place to view the total solar eclipse on 12 Aug.
For Kiwis after culture, Belgium’s Brussels is recommended and the Chilean Fjords are cited as the go-to for the adventurous cruiser. Meanwhile literary travellers can plan a trip to Devon, as 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Devon’s famous writer Agatha Christie.
Those seeking nature can look to Dominica, home to the world’s first sperm whale reserve; East Timor is listed as the ‘up and coming’ destination; and Jamaica makes the list for its come-back after Hurricane Melissa in Oct.
Japan’s Kanazawa caters to those wanting to ‘get off the beaten path’, but if that’s not far enough for your client, CNN also high lights Mongolia’s Orkhon Valley. Finland’s Oulu makes the list for its Aurora Borealis and floating saunas and Penang in Malaysia is highlighted for history, as is Peru’s ancient city of Peñico, which was only unveiled by archeologists in 2025. In the US, Philadelphia is cited as one of the premier spots for the year-long national commemoration of America’s 250th birthday, and Santa Monica is noted for its location as the ending point of Route 66, which turns 100 this year.
Rounding out the list is St. Pierre and Miquelon, French islands located just 20kms or so off Canada’s eastern-most province, known for seafood and nature. Check out the full list HERE.
