20 unforgettable holiday destinations experts recommend

From pilots and travel photographers to train lovers and local guides, these seasoned explorers have traveled the globe.

They reveal their top picks and explain why these destinations should be on your travel list for your next holiday.

1. Discover the remote islands of Wayag, Indonesia

Among the many stunning spots in Indonesia, Wayag stands out as a true gem, according to Michael Travers, marketing head at SeaTrek Sailing Adventures.

Wayag is home to hundreds of dense, forest-covered limestone karsts and islands, creating tranquil bays with pristine white beaches and vibrant coral reefs,” Travers explains.

There are no villages or tourist accommodations here; the only way to reach Wayag is by boat, Travers notes.

“I strongly suggest hiking up to the viewpoint on the western side of Wayag Bay. It's a challenging 30-minute climb through the forest and over jagged limestone, but the breathtaking views of this paradise are absolutely worth the effort,” Travers adds.

2. Experience Egypt without the crowds

“Now is the perfect time to visit Egypt,” advises Geoffrey Kent, founder of Abercrombie & Kent.

“I visited at the end of 2015, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore these historic sites without the usual crowds. For example, at Abu Simbel, I was in Ramses’ temple all alone for a few moments,” says Kent.

“While climbing the narrow staircase into the heart of the Cheops Pyramid, I only had to dodge a few people. It’s a whole different experience when the site is not packed with tourists and the heat is more bearable,” Kent recalls.

3. Relax in Tbilisi’s Abanotubani Bath District

Step aside, Istanbul. Tbilisi is a European city blending East and West with its own natural sulfuric baths that rival the famed Cagaloglu Baths, according to freelance photojournalist Sarah Freeman.

“I highly recommend exploring the bath district in Tbilisi, known as Abanotubani,” she says.

Located on the southern bank of Metekhi Bridge, this area features low domes that shelter baths where water naturally bubbles up from the earth at a temperature of around 90°F (32°C).

“During my visit, I relaxed with a cup of Turkish tea and enjoyed a massage from one of the mekise (masseurs),” says Freeman.

4. Experience wildlife in Namibia

“I recommend visiting Skeleton Coast in Namibia,” says Lucy Jackson, co-founder and director of Lightfoot Travel.

This desolate and haunting desert, she adds, “seeps into the soul.”

“I’ll never forget seeing the towering sand dunes of the Namib Desert meet the Atlantic Ocean. While flying over the Hoanib River in a Cessna, we spotted giraffes and elephants below,” Jackson remembers.

“Afterward, I love to enjoy a drink on the beach, with the water gently lapping at my feet and a shipwreck just behind me,” she adds.

Namibia’s Skeleton Coast: Explore the ‘Gates of Hell’

5. Witness the Northern Lights in Canada before they go dormant

In 2017, Canada marks its 150th anniversary since Confederation, and to celebrate, the country is offering free admission to its national parks all year long, says Hannah Tydeman-Klassen, founder and director of Curio Trips.

While most tourists flock to the iconic blue lakes and snow-capped peaks of Banff National Park, she recommends exploring the Northern Territory of Yukon.

Yukon also offers the opportunity to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis, the world’s most mesmerizing natural light show.

With experts predicting that 2017 will be the final year before the Northern Lights enter a dormant phase, “this is truly the year to experience them,” she adds.

6. Spot spider monkeys in Minas Gerais

“I believe it’s time for Minas Gerais in Brazil to get the spotlight it deserves,” says Matthew LaPolice, luxury travel manager at Absolute Travel.

The state is home to Brazil’s mining hub and its financial capital, Belo Horizonte.

But there’s another side to Minas Gerais, offering pristine wilderness, a thriving arts scene, and mouthwatering cuisine, he adds.

“I highly recommend staying at the beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse, Reserva do Ibitipoca,” he suggests.

“From here, you can explore the nearby national park either on foot or horseback. Be on the lookout for the extremely rare woolly spider monkey—the property’s owners are dedicated to preserving the Atlantic Forest, the monkey’s natural habitat,” says LaPolice.

7. Watch laid-back dolphins in Komodo National Park

“I recommend visiting Komodo National Park in Indonesia, where a pod of dolphins takes rest in a secluded cove each night,” says Eddie Widnall, founder of Ultimate Indonesian Yachts.

“There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars on a boat, with the sound of dolphins swimming below,” says Widnall.

Next up is Tomolol in Misool, where you can swim through cave systems adorned with stalactites, leading to a serene blue lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs,” he adds.

“Some caves feature ancient paintings, while others are draped in orchids and home to carnivorous pitcher plants,” he explains.

8. Explore untouched beaches in Vilanculos, Mozambique

“I knew very little about Mozambique before I visited,” says Kristin Addis, CEO of Be My Travel Muse.

There was very little information available online about this coastal country in southern Africa, she notes.

“When I visited, I was amazed by the stunning white sand beaches, which were mostly deserted by tourists,” she says.

“Every day in Vilanculos, sandbars emerge as the tide recedes. It was a joy watching fishermen collect their catch and locals playing soccer in the sand,” she recalls.

Mozambique’s capital to travelers: Come and explore!

9. Discover the glaciers and hiking trails of Greenland

When most people think of Greenland, they picture snow and ice, says Matthew Karsten, adventure travel blogger and photographer at ExpertVagabond.

However, summers along the coast are surprisingly mild, with rolling hills, lush tundra, and abundant wildlife, he explains.

“I recommend spending a day hiking the ice cap near Kangerlussuaq, going on a wildlife safari, or embarking on a 10-day trek along Greenland’s Arctic Circle Trail,” Karsten suggests.

10. Learn to surf in Nosara, Costa Rica

The Guanacaste province on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a surfer’s paradise, says Matthew Karsten of ExpertVagabond.

Many surf towns can get quite packed. “What makes Nosara so special is that this small town doesn’t attract as many tourists,” he explains.

The nearby Playa Guiones beach offers plenty of waves that will keep both beginners and seasoned surfers satisfied.

For those not into surfing, yoga classes and horseback riding are popular activities as well.

11. Take the scenic train ride from Belgrade to Montenegro

Mark Smith, train expert at Seat61, describes the 296-mile journey from Serbia’s capital to Montenegro’s Adriatic coast as one of Europe’s most stunning rail experiences.

“It’s truly epic. The route peaks at over 3,000 feet above sea level, winding through the awe-inspiring Montenegrin mountains,” he says.

“The journey is also a feat of engineering, with 254 tunnels and 435 bridges, including the world’s highest railway viaduct,” Smith adds.

12. Explore the wild beauty of Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest national park, Wilpattu, offers travelers the chance to track rare creatures like leopards and sloth bears, says Skandha Ponniah, marketing manager at SriLankaInStyle.

Even better, the park remains largely untouched and relatively unknown, ensuring a peaceful experience.

“The park’s roads require four-wheel drives and a skilled driver, so I recommend exploring with a tented safari camp like Kulu Safaris or Leopard Trail,” suggests Ponniah.

“Be sure to stop at the banks of a villu (a shallow natural lake filled with rainwater and surrounded by open grassy plains). Then, just wait for wildlife to come and drink,” he advises.

13. Cycle around and enjoy clam chowder in San Francisco

Will Swinburn, senior first officer at British Airways, suggests renting a bike from one of the many welcoming cycle shops in San Francisco.

“Cycling past the Ferry Building and along the piers gives you a real sense of the city’s maritime history,” he says.

It’s always a good idea to stop at Pier 39 for a clam chowder bread bowl and a drink, then continue towards the Golden Gate, advises Swinburn.

“There are several great vantage points along the route where you can soak in views of the vibrant bay.”

“Ride down the final stretch of the bridge, then turn right at the bottom and head down the steep hill to Sausalito. This charming town offers the perfect view of fog city itself.”

14. Live out your James Bond fantasy in Jamaica

“Jamaica is an incredible destination. It has breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and an unmatched musical legacy,” says Matt Vlemmiks, head of product and commercial at Elegant Resorts.

You can spend days hiking through the mountains with a Rastafarian guide who’ll lead you to hidden waterfalls or take you on a journey to explore beautiful coffee plantations,” he adds.

Vlemmiks suggests staying at Strawberry Hill, where guests can enjoy the sight of the city’s shimmering lights from the mountains while subtle reggae rhythms drift in the air.

Alternatively, head to Goldeneye to live out your James Bond dreams. Ian Fleming once resided at this location and wrote many of the Bond novels there.

15. Experience an eco retreat in Kenya

“It may not be a secret spot to some, but I highly recommend Segera Retreat in Laikipia County, Kenya,” says Michelle Karam, founder of Travel Junkie Diary.

The retreat spans 50,000 acres and is owned and operated by conservationist Jochen Zeitz.

“The retreat is like nothing I’ve experienced. It offers a peaceful sanctuary where guests can connect with nature and find solitude, while also learning about the local community and Kenya's wildlife,” says Karam.

The retreat prioritizes sustainability, with efforts in solar power, recycling, and growing its own food.

“The property also educates local farmers on sustainable grazing practices, helping restore wildlife populations by constructing artificial waterholes and deploying rangers to combat poaching,” Karam explains.

16. Witness baby turtles at Blanchisseuse Beach, Trinidad

Katelyn Smith, founder of The Remote Nomad, recommends visiting Blanchisseuse Beach in Trinidad, a serene spot nestled between rolling hills and verdant palms.

“It's a bit of a trek, and since public transportation isn’t an option, visitors should be sure to rent a car or hire a local driver,” she advises.

“The beach is fantastic for surfing. Right across the road, try some 'bake and shark,' a beloved local dish, paired with a Carib beer,” she recommends.

Depending on the season, travelers might even witness baby sea turtles hatching, she adds.

One helpful tip: Slang is everywhere, even on public signs. If you spot a “no liming” sign, it means no “hanging out” or loitering in that area.

17. Experience the sunrise over a whispering volcano

For an unforgettable experience, it’s hard to top visiting the 9th-century Borobudur, a Buddhist monument, says Sophie Marchant, travel editor at LuxuryExplorer.com. Located overlooking the Kedu Plain in central Java, “this place fills me with wonder,” she adds.

“I stayed at Amanjiwo, part of the Aman group, and highly recommend it. I woke up at 4 a.m., hiked to the summit, and witnessed an awe-inspiring sunrise over Mount Merapi, a silent volcano,” Marchant recalls.

“I’d also suggest packing a picnic and heading to a nearby waterfall. My guide from the hotel took me there, and it was a perfect spot to relax,” she says.

18. Embark on a mountain trek in India

Maxine Headley, a Smith24 travel expert, is keen to challenge common misconceptions about India: that it’s hard to travel and visitors are bound to get sick.

“I’m not sure where all this negativity comes from,” says Headley.

For a fresh perspective on India, Headley recommends a Shakti experience in the Himalayas. It's a journey less about luxury hotels and more about nomadic adventures, where you spend your days trekking through the mountains and your nights camping under the stars in remote base camps.

“I adored trekking through lush orchards, hiking across deep canyons, and pausing to admire the Buddhist temples and massive golden statues scattered across the landscape,” she adds.

19. Sleep beneath the stars in Kenya

Nicky Brandon, director of sales and marketing at Ker & Downey and Africa travel expert, suggests heading to Kenya’s Northern Frontier for a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure.

She recommends staying at Sasaab, where you can enjoy not only game drives but also quad biking, camel rides, and safari walks.

“In my opinion, the village visit here offers the most authentic and immersive experience. Venture out and sleep under the stars at a private fly camp for an unforgettable night,” says Brandon.

“Be sure to keep an eye out for the Samburu Special Five: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and beisa oryx. These unique species are only found in this part of Kenya,” she adds.

20. Enjoy a tranquil stroll at Victoria Peak, Hong Kong

While Hong Kong may not immediately come to mind as a walking destination, it offers some great trails, says Charlie Stewart-Cox, Cathay Pacific’s general manager for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The city boasts fantastic hiking routes and mountain paths, both within the urban landscape and in surrounding nature, Stewart-Cox notes.

“One of my favorite walks is along Lugard Road at Victoria Peak. The path runs along the cliffside, providing breathtaking views of the Hong Kong skyline,” he says.

The entrance to Lugard Road is located right next to the Peak Tower, making it easy to start your scenic walk.