Season 3, Episode 1: Top 25 Destinations for 2024

Before recording this week's episode of Unpacked, Estonia wasn't on my radar. However, after hearing Dinogo's executive editor Billie Cohen share her experiences there, I felt compelled to visit. In this episode, Billie joins fellow editors Tim Chester and Sarika Bansal to discuss how they curated the list, revealing their favorite destinations and those they're eager to explore next.

Transcript

Aislyn Greene, host: I noticed a bit of static; does anyone else hear that…?

Sarika Bansal, editorial director: I'll just move my phone a bit farther away.

Aislyn: That sounds fantastic!

Sarika: Perfect!

Billie Cohen, executive editor: I love that it shows we're truly global—like Sarika joining us from Nairobi, where there’s a power outage. This is a travel magazine, folks.

Aislyn: Exactly, we practice what we preach.

Aislyn: I'm Aislyn Greene, and this is Unpacked, the podcast that dives into a challenging travel topic each week. Happy New Year, everyone, and welcome back!

As we settle into the new year, I hope it’s treating you well. We’ve got a fresh season lined up, packed with tips and tricks to enhance your travel experiences. This season, we’re introducing a new series called “Unpacking” that delves into destinations worldwide, helping you understand and fully enjoy them.

You can catch glimpses of our travel plans this season by following me on social media—I’ll provide links in the show notes. Additionally, we’re launching video podcasts, so if you want to witness my currently subpar backdrop, check out Dinogo Media on YouTube. We’ll link that too, and I promise my setup will improve as the year progresses and the ongoing construction wraps up.

Now that the housekeeping is out of the way, let’s dive into a new year of travel! It’s a blank canvas, and we’re all eager to fill our calendars and book trips—or at least I am! If you’re seeking inspiration, I might be a bit biased, but we have some incredible suggestions for you. Our “Where to Go in 2024 list” features 25 destinations and is part of our annual “Where to Go” issue, just released on newsstands. If you’re a magazine lover like me, grab a copy for the stunning photographs that accompany the list.

We’ll also provide a link to the digital version of that list, which is fantastic. However, there’s something truly satisfying about sitting down with a magazine, putting your phone aside, reading the stories, and indulging in some daydreaming. Today, we’ll unpack that list with three of the Dinogo editors who helped create it.

Aislyn: Hello, everyone! Welcome back to Unpacked.

Sarika: Thank you for having us! We’re thrilled to be here to discuss our travel recommendations.

Aislyn: I know, and you’ve just wrapped up putting this list together.

Billie: It’s etched in our minds. We’re all eagerly anticipating 2024 so we can start embarking on these trips we've been writing and editing about for months now.

Aislyn: I can't wait! Before we dive into the list, let’s have everyone introduce themselves and share where they're located. Sarika, would you like to kick things off?

Sarika: Hi, I’m Sarika Bansal, the editorial director, based in Nairobi, Kenya. Just a heads-up, we’ve been experiencing a nationwide power outage for over 24 hours, so my setup is a bit improvised right now. Thankfully, we have a reliable solar backup, but I’m grateful to be here by the skin of my teeth.

Aislyn: It’s truly impressive that you’re here despite all that, thank you. Billie, what about you?

Billie: Hi, I’m Billie Cohen, the executive editor, and I’m currently in New York.

Aislyn: And you’ve got power, right?

Billie: Yes, we do have power, indeed.

Sarika: It’s not 2003 anymore!

Billie: And it’s not summer, right? That’s when we often see many brownouts in the city. But overall, things seem to be going well. We do have some construction going on, so if you hear noise from my back window, that's what it is.

Aislyn: That brings us to you, Tim.

Tim Chester, deputy editor: Hi, I’m Tim Chester, the deputy editor. I’m currently in sunny, power-abundant Thousand Oaks, California, near L.A. I feel like a traveler, but I always end up at home for our podcast sessions. So, California it is!

Aislyn: We should schedule our next recording when you’re in a really interesting location.

Tim: Something exotic, for sure!

Aislyn: Perhaps somewhere from the list? All right, let’s dive into this fantastic list you’ve created. It’s quite extensive! How did you approach it this year? What was your mindset going in?

Sarika: There are a few key things we focus on when we start receiving pitches. There’s always an abundance of amazing places to explore. While these lists can sometimes seem random, we strive to filter for what’s new or what destinations are currently trending. This might involve a cultural opening, exciting conservation efforts, or significant events happening next year that make a visit particularly timely. That’s something we really keep an eye on.

We also aim for a diverse geographical representation. We don’t want to concentrate solely on Europe; instead, we want to encourage travel to a variety of regions, giving reasons for people to revisit familiar places or explore new ones they may not know about. I believe our list strikes a nice balance between these elements.

Tim: Absolutely! My favorite aspect of creating this list, aside from the moment the issue is published, is at the very beginning when we request pitches. We connect with writers and contributors from around the globe, finding out where they are, what they’re recommending, and what excites them. We gather well over a hundred ideas, categorize them by continent, and review them collectively. It’s fascinating to gauge the travel-writing community's pulse and discover what’s capturing everyone’s attention.

Then comes the challenging part of narrowing it down to a more concise list.

Billie: Absolutely! I appreciate that we collaborate with writers and staff who have actually experienced these places firsthand. Some even live there. We receive a plethora of pitches and ideas, and occasionally we encounter surprising locations we hadn’t considered. Because these contributors are so familiar with their locales, they provide a fresh perspective that we believe will resonate with travelers.

Aislyn: I love that! It’s fantastic to have such deep knowledge and personal experience informing the list. Tim, you mentioned it started as quite an extensive list, and this year we have 25 destinations, which sometimes feels like more than in previous years. How did you land on the number 25?

Tim: Well, it couldn’t be 24, could it?

Aislyn: Really?

Billie: Too cheesy! We steer clear of that kind of numerical wordplay.

Aislyn: Other puns are perfectly acceptable...

Billie: Exactly! Just wait until we bring up Brno.

Tim: I was curious to see who would bring it up first.

Billie: It was obviously going to be me!

Sarika: Of course, it’s Billie without a doubt.

Tim: I had planned to use that as my answer for the second question. You got to it first! No one will understand what we’re referring to. Should we just dive into that joke now? One of the locations on our list is Brno in Czechia.

Aislyn: Go ahead!

Tim: It’s spelled B-R-N-O, which is clearly Bruno without the “u.” Billie, would you like to explain why that is?

Billie: Because of Encanto? As soon as it was pitched, I couldn’t help but make that terrible pun. Every time it came up, I’d say, “Let’s talk about Bruno.” I even roped Tim into repeating the joke whenever he mentioned it, and he graciously went along with it. So here we are, and now our listeners get a glimpse of the fun behind the scenes and my love for puns.

Tim: We initially narrowed the list down to about a dozen, but then we kept discovering places we really wanted to include, which caused it to double in size, didn’t it? Some of these are grouped into thematic categories, which we can discuss further.

Sarika: Absolutely! We started noticing some locations that stood out—like Paris, which will host the Summer Olympics. It seemed like a clear choice to include, but we also didn’t want to give it too much attention in the magazine, as the Olympics might actually discourage some people from visiting Paris next year.

However, we didn’t want to omit it entirely. So we featured a few spots, like Brno, Czechia, among others that we were eager to highlight. There were also other places that had significant happenings, or were designated capitals, like the European Capital of Culture, which warranted a mention but didn’t need extensive coverage in the print magazine.

Aislyn: That makes sense. You mentioned events, which seem to be a recurring theme in the list. We’ll delve into some specifics later, but why did you choose to focus on events, and what excites you the most?

Billie: I'll take this one. One major event in 2024 is the solar eclipse on April 8. The Dinogo team is quite captivated by eclipses, and one of our colleagues, Mae Hamilton, suggested that the Hill Country in Texas would be the perfect spot to witness it. We knew we had to feature this, and it also gave us a chance to discuss the region, which has a vibrant wine scene and charming small towns rich in culture.

This approach allows us to discuss the event while also highlighting the experiences available in that area beyond just that one day. We want to think about events not just as standalone experiences, but as gateways to sharing more about the locations where they occur.

Tim: This really shines through in Texas with the photography we've chosen. When I envisioned that piece, I pictured vast Texan plains under a night sky filled with stars, or something striking related to the eclipse. Instead, we have this beautiful image of two girls swimming underwater in one of the area's natural pools.

And there's also a truck cruising through vibrant wildflower fields. One of my favorite aspects of working for a magazine is seeing how the art team brings our stories to life—it's truly incredible. I just love it.

Aislyn: Yes, it's a surprising perspective on the location. What do you think attracts so many people to travel for solar eclipses?

Sarika: It feels like a delightful nerdy trend that remains appealing. Everyone can appreciate the awe-inspiring power of it. I think witnessing an eclipse offers a chance to connect with the vast universe we inhabit and to realize how small we truly are.

I certainly felt that way. When I had the opportunity to observe distant galaxies through a powerful telescope, I was struck by the sensation of our insignificance, just little specks in the grand scheme of things. It's a profound feeling, and it seems to unite people.

Billie: Absolutely. The shared experience of witnessing it together is incredible, right? You may not be able to visit some places yet, but everyone gets to enjoy this extraordinary phenomenon simultaneously, no matter where they are. There's something truly magical about that.

Tim: Astrotourism has become quite popular at hotels these days. Many establishments are setting up telescopes for spontaneous stargazing events. It seems like people are constantly traveling for that experience. So, naturally, the eclipse is the grand, dramatic version of this.

Aislyn: Definitely. What else caught you off guard on this year's list?

Tim: I don’t want to overshadow Brno too much, the city in Czechia, but I wasn't very familiar with it. Everyone knows Prague, of course. Emma John shared some great stories about the arts, culture, and the atmosphere there, highlighting some fascinating spots like Kabinet Múz, a vegan café by day and a concert venue by night. There’s also a museum of fine arts featuring floating chairs and a cocktail bar that invites drinkers to immerse themselves in the experience. Plus, there's a hotel that's only 26 feet wide. Emma really showcased the unique charm of that place and made me eager to visit, which is the goal of these pieces.

Sarika: Two things surprised me about the list in general. First, many selected locations are places you might be familiar with—I mean, we do feature Brno and a few others that might be new to many readers—but there are several destinations that people might have heard of or even visited before, yet we provide fresh reasons to explore them again.

Two notable examples are Rome, Italy, and Los Angeles, California. Both are iconic destinations. In Rome, there are many new, stunning hotels that I believe will attract visitors not just for the usual sights like the Colosseum, but also to stay and savor the city, experiencing aspects that often get overlooked.

Additionally, several archaeological sites are being revitalized, offering those who may have visited Rome previously a compelling reason to return and explore the city with fresh eyes.

Los Angeles is witnessing a significant Black art movement and the opening of a vibrant new space, along with numerous exciting restaurants that I think our readers would love to discover.

Another surprising aspect of our list is that many destinations were chosen for their commitments to sustainability and conservation. For instance, in Fiji, numerous hotels are dedicated to preserving marine life. Norway stands out for its extensive green transport options and eco-friendly ways to navigate the country. There are many others making strides in environmental efforts, which influenced our selection.

Billie: Indeed, many chosen locations feature a cultural sustainability aspect alongside events and festivals. One surprise was St. Kitts, highlighted by a pitch from our contributor Rosalind Cummings-Yeats. She encountered individuals working to revive the rum heritage in St. Kitts. Being in the Caribbean, it’s common knowledge that sugar plantations thrived there during various colonial periods, and St. Kitts, long a British colony, was home to many plantations tended by enslaved Africans.

Recently, there's been a movement among local residents, known as Kittitians, to reclaim their painful and complex history. Two companies are leading this effort to revisit that past, sharing its significance to the locals and their descendants in a new light.

In the Caribbean, where many see it merely as a sun-and-beach destination, discovering cultural connections is both surprising and exciting.

Aislyn: That's fascinating! And can you sample the rum?

Billie: Absolutely! You can visit these places. One of the companies is run by Jack Widdowson, who grew up on a former sugar plantation. As a teenager, he witnessed archaeologists uncover the ruins of an ancient distillery, believed to date back to the 1600s—the oldest in the Caribbean. Inspired, he decided to start a rum company, aiming to rebuild that distillery to produce rum on the island once more. In the meantime, he blends regional rums and invites visitors for tours, tastings, and discussions about this rich history.

He's really trying to bring that heritage back to life, showcasing the island's story while sharing its unique flavors.

You can definitely join the St. Kitts Rum Masters Tour, where you visit Old Road Rum and another distillery called Hibiscus Spirits. There, you'll have the chance to taste and learn how to craft Kittitian cocktails and Caribbean-inspired drinks, all while hearing the rich stories and history from a fresh perspective.

Aislyn: It sounds like all three of you have gained so much knowledge while creating this list. Is there a broader lesson you've learned from the process?

Billie: I've realized just how many incredible places in the world I can’t wait to explore. It feels endless, and I’m grateful for that.

Sarika: We really focused on arts and culture this year in our stories, like the Los Angeles example I mentioned, and St. Kitts, along with others like Manchester, England, which Billie covered. Each art scene feels distinct and specific to its location, which I absolutely love.

Aislyn: It seems that many writers featured this year either live in these locations or know them intimately. For instance, Sarika, you mentioned Rome, which was written by someone with insider knowledge of the city, right?

Sarika: Yes, Laura Itzkowitz moved to Rome back in 2009 for a couple of years and has been living there permanently since around 2019. It was evident how well-informed she is throughout our collaboration.

One aspect I found fascinating while working on that story was Laura's insights about the archaeological sites uncovered first by Mussolini, which later fell into neglect but are now being revitalized. Reading her story felt like receiving a tour that many tourists miss because they're too busy rushing to the Colosseum, visiting the Forum, and then hurrying off to the Amalfi Coast for Instagram shots.

Even while reading, I thought, "Oh, I understand what she's describing." She answered all my questions with detailed paragraphs and would suggest alternatives if needed, diving into the history of each site back to figures like Julius Caesar. It felt like I was getting a crash course in European history!

Aislyn: You should definitely share that with listeners! I also wanted to touch on sustainability. You mentioned it earlier—do you have anything more to add about how this list caters to climate-conscious travelers?

Sarika: Absolutely! A couple of points come to mind—Billie and Tim, feel free to chime in. We included several domestic destinations, allowing travelers to find magic without flying halfway around the globe. We spotlight vibrant American cities like Philadelphia, Seattle, and Charleston, along with other North American locales such as Toronto and Los Angeles. These places are much more accessible for many of our readers, which is important since traveling inevitably contributes to carbon emissions.

Many of the hotels featured in this article are deeply committed to climate initiatives. For instance, the Six Senses in Rome, which we highlighted, operates entirely on green power. This means guests can enjoy their stay knowing they're supporting a property with strong environmental values.

You can make your trip more sustainable by considering both your travel method and your accommodation—these choices collectively help reduce your carbon footprint compared to traditional travelers.

Tim: Absolutely, you summed it up well. We’re consistently aiming to guide travelers toward lesser-known destinations. Even in a popular city like Rome, there are numerous suggestions for extending your stay and supporting local businesses throughout the piece.

I’ve come to realize I need to explore more of L.A., which is just around the corner for me. Destination Crenshaw, the Black art initiative, is set to launch next year, but there are countless small businesses mentioned in the piece that I’d love to visit and support, along with some fantastic dining options.

Additionally, it's the 100th anniversary of the Hollywood sign! While discovering the new developments in L.A., there's also a rich heritage to appreciate. I even had the chance to hike up to the letters with the chairman of the Hollywood Sign Trust.

It’s quite vertiginous—extremely high. Heights aren’t my thing. While I was gripping a piece of wood that used to support the 'l' in 'Hollywoodland,' he shared an extensive history of the sign.

Aislyn: Oh, that’s incredible!

Tim: Indeed, there’s a rich history there. You can even walk right behind the sign for a fantastic view of both it and the city. What else did we overlook in terms of sustainability?

Billie: There are three notable locations on our list recognized for their sustainability initiatives: Fiji, Norway, and Bhutan. Norway, in particular, has a nationwide commitment to preserving its stunning natural beauty. With its fjords and majestic mountains, they understand the importance of protection.

This includes developing public transportation systems, such as hybrid electric trains and fully electric options. The country is also phasing out combustion engine vehicles, with one in five cars now being electric, making it easy to rent one. This way, travelers can enjoy nature respectfully during their visit, which we wanted to highlight.

Tim, would you like to discuss Fiji? There’s something similar happening there.

Tim: Absolutely. What stood out to me about Fiji is the abundance of upscale resorts that are genuinely committed to ocean conservation, inviting guests to participate. You can get involved in planting coral and mangrove saplings, which are crucial for carbon drawdown and serve as flood barriers and habitats.

I visited a year ago and stayed at Nanuku Resort on the southern coast of Viti Levu. There, I met passionate individuals dedicated to impactful work both in the ocean and on land.

Billie: I found it fascinating that many of their resorts employ marine biologists.

Tim: Yes, exactly.

Sarika: It’s incredible.

Billie: Right? It’s not just about sustainability; it’s also about the fun side of things. I now have the urge to visit Fiji and spend time with a marine biologist.

Tim: Exactly. They’re doing remarkable work with local communities too, encouraging them to see the project and get involved. They’re planting mangroves near villages to provide flood protection instead of resorting to heavy concrete walls.

Another thing that surprised me about Fiji is how few people travel there from the U.S. When I flew from L.A., it was a direct flight, but I had to endure an overnight trip both ways, which isn’t ideal. However, in 2022, only 70,000 people visited from the U.S., compared to 7.7 million who went to Hawai‘i. So if you're searching for a destination with fewer tourists and plenty of room to soak in the natural beauty, I highly recommend it. I truly enjoyed my time there.

Aislyn: We touched on events earlier, but one that really piqued my interest was the kite festival. Can you share more about the Chinese city that hosts it?

Tim: Yes, Weifang. I haven't visited it myself—only been to Beijing—but it's located roughly midway between Beijing and Shanghai, about a four to five-hour drive from either city. Next year, it will be the Culture City of East Asia.

It's one of the places that claims to be the birthplace of kites and is certainly recognized as the kite capital of the world. They host the International Kite Festival every April, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors, featuring a vibrant display of colorful kites. Plus, there’s a World Kite Museum.

Have any of you ever flown kites? For me, it usually involves half an hour of untangling before enjoying just three minutes of fun. So, I can only imagine how incredible it would be to see experts flying beautifully crafted, handmade kites filling the sky.

Billie: That does sound really exciting.

Tim: Indeed! Weifang is also recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. It’s not just about kites—visitors can also explore clay modeling, paper cutting, and woodblock printing. It seems like a fascinating, artistic city, and I've heard it has a fantastic night food market as well.

Aislyn: It seems to have come up naturally earlier, but Tim, you've been to Fiji—have you visited any of these other places recently? Billie, I know you just returned from Estonia and had a great time.

Billie: Yes, I’ll try not to bore you all too much, but I might just do that anyway.

Aislyn: Please share!

Billie: I absolutely loved it! Estonia was a revelation for me. Most U.S. travelers probably only know Tallinn, the capital, which is a common stop on Baltic cruise itineraries. Unfortunately, many don’t venture beyond the city, which is a real shame.

The country is small yet stunning. Tallinn boasts a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Old Town with stunning 14th-century castles and walls. Plus, if you travel just two hours outside the city, you’ll find several breathtaking national parks.

I went hiking in a bog, which felt like trekking on snowshoes across a thick carpet of peat moss that sinks slightly beneath your feet. It’s like walking on water, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. I also hiked through forests where you can forage for mushrooms—everything is so fresh and natural.

Everything is conveniently located just two hours apart, and the infrastructure is impressively modern—smooth roads and highways make travel easy. Everyone speaks English, and there's Wi-Fi everywhere; the country really prioritizes internet access and digital education, making it a breeze for travelers to explore.

In Tartu, the second-largest city with about 100,000 residents, they are one of Europe’s Cultural Capitals for 2024. There will be various events all year long for visitors to experience the city. I was surprised to find that the main town square has a charming vibe reminiscent of southern Europe, with cobblestones, a statue in the center, beautifully colored historic buildings, open-air cafés, and a river running through it. It gives off a very European atmosphere that many might not expect so far north. There’s a delightful blend of classic European charm mixed with remnants of the Soviet era, which was fascinating to see.

I had an amazing time and met so many wonderful people. I can’t recommend Estonia highly enough!

Tim: What initially inspired you to visit Estonia, Billie?

Billie: I came across an article in BBC Travel that featured a man living in the bog hiking region of Estonia. The writer hadn’t even visited, as it was during the pandemic, but there’s this intriguing phenomenon called the fifth season that occurs in March. When the snow melts from the nearby areas, the rivers flood—Estonia lacks mountains but has many rivers—resulting in a situation where cars sometimes get submerged, and people have to navigate by canoe.

I found that to be such a captivating climate and cultural narrative. It inspired me to visit, and I ended up meeting that very man who guides canoeing in the bog and took me hiking.

You never know how our stories resonate; years later, someone might decide to visit based on them. Plus, with Tartu being one of the 2024 European Capitals of Culture, I was curious about how the country would showcase its arts and culture to the world during this significant moment.

Sarika: What I really appreciate about our list is that, even if people can’t travel this year, it plants the idea that there are places they might not have considered. Hopefully, when they can travel, they’ll think, “This could be a destination for me.”

Aislyn: Exactly! It’s like saving this magazine issue or bookmarking the article online for future inspiration. It’s all about planting those seeds for adventures down the line.

Sarika: I've been reflecting on the destinations I've covered, particularly Lamu, Kenya, which I hope will intrigue many travelers. Often, first-time visitors to Africa, a continent with 54 countries, tend to seek out its famous wildlife experiences, which are truly remarkable, and I completely understand that.

However, Africa offers so much more than just its wild landscapes. There are incredible cities as well, and in this case, Lamu stands out for its uniquely preserved Swahili culture—a fascinating blend of Bantu, East African, Arabic, Persian, as well as influences from European, Indian, and Chinese cultures, creating a rich melting pot.

You won't encounter such distinctive architecture or cultural elements preserved elsewhere. Lamu Town, the island's main settlement, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for these reasons. Anyone planning to explore the continent should definitely consider visiting places like this.

Aislyn: Absolutely! How far is it from your location?

Sarika: It's about an hour's flight from Nairobi, which is the most convenient way to reach it, with direct flights available. The island boasts stunning hotels and guesthouses, making you feel like you’re in a picturesque setting all day long. A unique aspect of Lamu is that there are no cars—no street signs either—so you wander through winding alleys and discover your way around. You might get lost at times, but you'll eventually recognize familiar landmarks, like a certain tree or donkey, as donkeys are quite common there.

Aislyn: It's rare to have the chance to get lost these days. I find that so refreshing.

Sarika: And yet, you still feel secure. It's comforting to be in a compact area where you can't stray too far from familiar surroundings.

Aislyn: The donkey will lead you back to safety!

Sarika: Absolutely, the donkey will!

Tim: Those are some unique donkeys!

Sarika: Indeed! There's a donkey rehabilitation center on the island, where you can visit and see three-legged donkeys and other rescued animals. It's quite fascinating.

Another African spot we mentioned is Tangier, Morocco, located at the very northern tip of the country. I discovered a lot about its colonial past, as it used to be part of an international zone governed by several countries, including Italy and Spain. For a long time, it wasn't considered a part of Morocco at all, giving it a unique international flair.

Today, Tangier is reconnecting with its Moroccan roots, led by creative locals who are running vibrant restaurants, cultural programs, and shops selling Moroccan home goods and beauty products. Many of these businesses are spearheaded by young women, showcasing the city's artistic side that has evolved over time. I'm really excited to see how the old and new Tangier blend together.

Aislyn: Absolutely, this year's list features so many amazing cities. Are there any others you think we missed discussing?

Tim: Definitely! I’d like to highlight San Diego, which, along with Tijuana, is part of our list as World Design Capital 2024. The two cities will host numerous design-focused events and boast stunning architecture that goes beyond just beaches and tacos, revealing a vibrant urban experience.

Earlier this year, I took an EV road trip and found it super easy to fly in and rent an electric vehicle, avoiding the need for a gas-powered car. Much of the exciting design work is happening in La Jolla, a charming neighborhood north of the city perched on cliffs. There, you can sea kayak in caves, swim with leopard sharks, and marvel at bright orange Garibaldi fish while snorkeling. It’s a stunning place that I highly recommend visiting.

Billie: I want to give a shout-out to Philadelphia, which we included this year. Everyone knows Philadelphia as a historical landmark where the Constitution was penned, but its food scene is absolutely thriving right now. It received more James Beard Awards in 2023 than any other city, showcasing its diverse and fascinating culinary landscape. It’s a perfect time to rethink a trip there this year.

Plus, Philadelphia has a fantastic art scene, with renowned institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. The gallery scene continues to flourish, especially with events like First Friday, where galleries stay open late. Being so close to New York, I’ve visited often, and I’m really looking forward to this.

Tim: When you mentioned Philadelphia's James Beard Award winners, I instinctively reached for the hand clapping emoji. I think I’ve spent too much time on Microsoft Teams!

Sarika: I’d also like to highlight Toronto, which, to my surprise, ranks as one of the most diverse cities globally—more so than even New York City and London.

Over 180 languages are spoken in Toronto. This year, it made our list partly because it elected its first woman of color as mayor, Olivia Chow, who has been vocal about the city's diversity. The article explores various neighborhoods, like Little Tibet for momos, Koreatown for karaoke, and areas with vibrant Somali communities.

Similar to Philadelphia, Toronto also boasts upscale dining options and hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year. The Caribbean festival in August attracts around a million attendees, and in October, an all-night contemporary arts event draws in locals from all backgrounds.

Aislyn: That sounds incredible! Our company trip is in March, and I can't wait.

Sarika: I know! Honestly, my entire itinerary feels like a checklist of different restaurants and neighborhoods to explore.

Billie: Exactly! We have so much food to try, but not nearly enough time.

Aislyn: Unless we can extend our trip or arrive earlier.

Billie: Or we could just schedule all our meetings at the restaurant.

Sarika: We could have second lunch, followed by first and second dinner.

Tim: Earlier this year, we had an excellent series of digital stories featuring Toronto.

Aislyn: Oh yes, we should definitely include links to those.

Tim: If you’re considering a trip there, check out the Toronto guide on our website. We feature a segment called My Perfect Day, where a local shares how they spend their ideal day. One by Tiffany Ramsubick, who manages Ode, Toronto’s only Black-owned boutique hotel, highlights a fantastic day there. There’s so much to explore, and we’ll definitely need extra time since we don’t want our entire visit to be filled with meetings.

Aislyn: Absolutely, those meetings should take place in the restaurant. We’ve focused a lot on these urban destinations filled with arts and culture. But what about those who prefer to travel for nature and outdoor experiences?

Sarika: Billie briefly mentioned Bhutan, and I think it’s an incredible country. I haven’t been there myself, but Kathleen Rellihan visited last year and was among the first to hike the newly restored Trans Bhutan Trail, which had fallen into disrepair in the ’60s and just reopened last year.

This year, Bhutan has also reduced its tourist tax, which traditionally covers lodging and guides, to $100 a day to encourage more visitors.

Additionally, many new hotels have opened, along with the Trans Bhutan Trail. This trail winds through the picturesque Bhutanese countryside, allowing hikers to pass stupas, temples, and quaint towns and villages that were previously largely off-limits to foreign visitors.

There are many compelling reasons to explore Bhutan. The country is also highly committed to conservation, with 60 percent of its land mandated to remain forested. Plus, it holds the title of the first carbon-negative country in the world, making it another fascinating reason to visit and learn about their practices.

Aislyn: Absolutely! Yes! We’re all applauding here.

Billie: We’re all reaching for the clapping hands emoji again.

Sarika: In one of our roundups in the [issue], we highlight classic destinations worth revisiting. Machu Picchu, Peru’s most famous site, is definitely one of them. It’s an astonishing achievement of Incan engineering. The surrounding Sacred Valley is also one of the most beautiful places in the world, in my opinion.

Intrepid Tours has recently introduced a new hiking route that allows visitors to experience Machu Picchu while also exploring the less-traveled parts of the Sacred Valley. This Quarry Trail takes hikers to ancient Incan towns, beautiful waterfalls, and other previously less accessible sites.

I really love the concept of revisiting a classic destination but with a unique twist.

Tim: If you enjoy outdoor experiences paired with a glass of wine, then Uruguay should be on your list this year. Julia Buckley wrote a wonderful piece about a coastal area known as Maldonado, located just beyond Montevideo and Canelones.

This region is emerging as the country’s up-and-coming wine hotspot. There’s a sommelier who has created a Mapa del Vino, a map showcasing all the boutique vineyards in Uruguay. You can explore this beautiful area, enjoying alfresco food tastings and fantastic red wines. I definitely added it to my travel list after working on that article.

Aislyn: I’d love to shift the conversation to our travel plans for next year. With 2023 being such a busy travel year, what are your predictions for 2024?

Billie: I believe travel will remain busy, and that trend is unlikely to change soon. However, that shouldn't deter you. One of the key messages of our list is to explore destinations off the beaten path. For instance, in Europe, consider Estonia and Brno; in Africa, look at Lamu and Tangier. Also, re-evaluate familiar locations like Rome or Toronto, as there’s often another layer worth discovering that might help steer you away from the usual tourist trails.

Tim: Indeed, popular destinations are only going to get busier, and climate factors will undoubtedly influence travel—especially with unpredictable weather in some regions. It's wise to aim for the shoulder season whenever possible. The pandemic reminded us that the unexpected can always happen, so travel while you can. That home renovation or new vehicle can wait. Just get out there and explore the world.

Aislyn: Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance! We’ll provide a link to our episode on that topic. To wrap up our discussion, I'd love to hear about your travel plans for this year. What destinations are on your radar? They can be from our list or other trips you’re planning.

Sarika: Inspired partly by a feature in our previous issue, the epic trips edition, I’m heading to Oman with my family over the holidays, and I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve learned a bit about Oman, but I’m excited to discover how diverse the activities are, from snorkeling and scuba diving to mountain climbing, desert visits, and, of course, enjoying delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

I can’t wait to experience all of this, and our feature story, which is absolutely stunning, further fueled my excitement. The photos are breathtaking, particularly those of the wadis—large gorges that are a sandy hue, accented by bright turquoise waters flowing through them. They look almost cinematic, as if they were crafted for a film set; they seem unreal.

Aislyn: We’ll also link to that story because it’s truly exceptional.

Billie: It's definitely one of my top picks.

Sarika: Absolutely, the writing is fantastic, and the photographs enhance it beautifully. It truly feels like you're stepping into another world.

Aislyn: I have to run. Billie, what destinations are on your agenda this year?

Billie: I’m off to Kenya in February, where I’ll visit Sarika. I also want to check out Lamu from our list. I tend to travel for music or unique events, so Brno is on my radar for their free music festival in August.

Plus, Manchester is buzzing with activities. They’ve opened several new venues, including the largest purpose-built concert hall in the U.K.—it’s all about music there now.

There are several concerts I’m excited about, including one called City of Floating Sounds. It’s an interactive symphony experience that will take place throughout Manchester, guiding listeners back to a new venue, Aviva Studios at Factory International, which just opened this year. This event is happening in June, and I definitely want to be there for it.

Aislyn: Oh my gosh.Yeah. That sounds incredible! I want to go too.

Billie: Let’s make it a company outing!

Aislyn: I wish that could happen.

Tim: I really enjoyed your piece on Manchester, Billie. The city is famous for its music scene, but there’s so much more going on that many might not realize.

Billie: Absolutely! That was one of the main reasons I visited; the music history is fascinating. But I was genuinely surprised by how much more the city has to offer, including incredible libraries. That’s a topic for another episode.

Aislyn: Tim, where will you be podcasting from next time?

Tim: I’ll be back in my home office. My travel schedule is looking quite sparse right now, especially since I’ve been focused on this feature. I’m heading to Palm Springs in January and we have the Toronto trip planned, but beyond that, my calendar is emptying out. I need to pencil in more travel; I’m really interested in going to Peru, especially with the Quarry Trail being an option, so we’ll see how that goes.

Aislyn: Do you think you’d take your kids along, or are they still a bit too young for that?

Tim: No.

Sarika: That was incredibly quick.

Billie: It really was fast.

Aislyn: Not a second of hesitation there.

Tim: We’re definitely not trekking to Machu Picchu with an eight-year-old and a four-year-old in tow.

Aislyn: Does that not sound enjoyable to you?

Tim: We were initially planning to return to England this summer, but we've pushed it back to next Christmas. Honestly, I’m not thrilled about the flight.

Aislyn: I’m excited to see how your travel plans unfold. Thank you so much! The list is fantastic, and your work is truly impressive. I feel inspired to visit all 25 destinations in 2024. That seems possible, right?

Billie: Absolutely! Aislyn, where do you want to go? What’s on your list?

Aislyn: I want to visit all of them! Manchester sounds amazing for its music scene, and Toronto is a given since we’re going as a company. If I had to choose one destination to visit right now, I’d probably pick Kenya.

Sarika: Karibu, Kenya! That means "welcome to Kenya." You should definitely come visit!

Aislyn: That's right! We've begun our Swahili lessons.

Sarika: Yes, I'll ensure there’s power available when you visit.

Aislyn: No worries, I appreciate that! I’ll just bring my solar charger instead.

Aislyn: And that wraps up our very first episode of the year. We'll include links to all our social media accounts in the show notes, along with the resources we discussed. Next week, we’ll revisit cruising in 2024 with our expert, Fran Golden. Don’t miss it!

Ready for more insights? Visit Dinogo.com and follow us on Instagram and X at @Dinogomedia. If you enjoyed today’s adventure, I hope you’ll join us for more exciting stories. Subscribing makes it easy! Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platforms to help other travelers find us. If you have questions or topic suggestions, reach out at Dinogo.com/feedback or email unpacked@Dinogo.com.

You've been listening to Unpacked, a Dinogo Media production. This podcast is brought to life by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with music composed by Chris Colin. And remember: The world is complex, and we’re here to help you make sense of it.