Can you believe there are only two months left of 2023? Another year flew by as quickly as travellers were flying back to their favourite countries in 2023. Travel was back from COVID-decline with a vengeance, with some countries seeing record breaking tourist numbers. Whilst 2024 is not looking to slow down, there might be a slight shift as people try to move away from the overwhelming crowds experienced in some of the most popular travel destinations like Italy, Greece, Bali and The Bahamas. Next year expect some lesser known destinations to gain more attention and appeal.
With more unique and ‘off-the-beaten-track’ destinations becoming more popular, it’s so important to be prepared and organise your visas (for travel to countries that require them) in advance. Entriva makes this process super smooth and easy, but I’ll share more about them soon. Here are the destinations that are rising in popularity and could be a good place to spend your 2024 vacation.
France
Starting off with a not-so-off-the-beaten-path destination, being the most visited country in the world. Whoops! But hear me out… Paris is hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics so of course France is going to be a very popular country to visit next year. Paris will definitely be buzzing but a summer escape to either Annecy in the French Alps, the beautiful Alsace region, wine region of Bordeaux or the French Riviera will be a lovely escape from the chaos to complete a trip that covers some sports action and summer relaxing.
Bulgaria
Speaking of sport, the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia has been named the sporting capital of the world for 2024. The city has more than 312 sports events planned, so if you’re looking for a unique and budget friendly destination to get your sporting fix then why not try Sofia? You could also check out the historic cities of Plovdiv, Nesebar or Koprivshtitsa or summer spots along the Black Sea like Sozopol, Burgas, Sunny Beach or Balchik. If you want rugged mountains and alpine lakes, Bulgaria has you covered there too at Pirin National Park and budget winter ski destinations like Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo.
South Korea
This year saw record high numbers of visitors to the Korean peninsula with the high tech city of Seoul being the gateway to the country. Seoul offers a lot for visitors with its unique and quirky style, modern art, pop culture, unique food scene and vibrant nightlife whilst also hosting historic temples and palaces. Venture outside of the city, and you can find national parks, beaches, temples & fortresses, tea fields and more. You can also take a day trip to The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to learn some interesting modern history.
Romania
A report by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) showed Romania as having one of the largest increases in revenue from international tourism in 2023 and that is projected to grow again in 2024. Hunt down historic castles and vampires in Transylvania, drive through the mountains and the famous Transfăgărășan Highway, or enjoy gorgeous cities like the capital of Bucharest, Sibiu, or Brasov. There’s even a carnival inside an underground salt mine at Salina Turda.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s tourism numbers increased 30% in 2023 and included a 25% growth in revenue according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. After 20 years of declining tourist numbers, in 2019 the Pakistani Prime Minister introduced the visa on arrival scheme, but just a few months later COVID hit. The mountainous country is a rugged and untouched hidden gem for any adventure seekers, hikers, and nature lovers. You can also find many mosques, forts, and big cities.
South Africa
It’ll be safari time in Africa for millions of tourists in 2024, and South Africa is leading the way. Some tourism sectors in 2023 were already recording revenue above that of pre-pandemic levels. With stunning beaches in Cape Town, ample wildlife spotting opportunities including to spot The Big Five, endless hikes and nature to enjoy, it’s going to be a destination to watch!
Saudi Arabia
With the second fastest growing tourism sector in the world and record breaking visitor numbers in 2023, the Middle Eastern nation isn’t showing signs of slowing down. Since introducing tourism to the country in only 2019, they have announced major plans to pave the way to be a top travel destination in the not so distant future. Saudi’s modern and innovative architecture alongside its culture and unique landscapes will be a focus for many travellers in 2024.
Jamaica
Jamaica also hit record breaking tourist numbers in 2023, having its “best year in the history of tourism for stopover arrivals”. The Caribbean nation is building more hotel rooms, more homes for workers, training more hospitality staff and securing more airline seats from the US to accommodate its hopes for the future of tourism in the home of Bob Marley. Considering the Caribbean islands were some of the most affected nations by the loss in tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s great to see them thriving. Plus, who wouldn’t want to sip coconuts and rum on the white sandy beaches, listening to reggae and eating jerk dishes?
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is being dubbed the ‘new Bali’ with digital nomads and surfers alike flocking to the island nation. With Bali prices soaring and intense overcrowding, people are looking for an affordable and more authentic alternative. Pre-pandemic tourist numbers were flourishing but back to back crises in the country including the 2019 terror attack and 2022 economic crisis brought declining tourism numbers. But in 2024 Sri Lanka plans to attract 2.5 million visitors to match their peak from 2018.
Mauritius
This African tropical paradise also broke tourist number records in 2023 and plans to keep the momentum going into 2024. They are aiming more efforts in encouraging senior tourists and digital nomads with their FREE yearly digital nomad visa launching in 2020 that is tax free for the first six months. Living in paradise? Where do I sign?
Albania
In 2023 this Mediterranean hot spot saw a 54% increase in the number of international tourists when compared to the same period in 2019. The next door neighbor of the ever-popular Greece has been growing in popularity with people seeking more affordable beach holidays. Albania also offers stunning mountains with great hiking options, lakes, rivers, stunning landscapes and historic towns.
Mongolia
Lonely Planet has named Mongolia as the best country to travel to in 2024! Visa restrictions have been eased through to 2025 making it easier to visit for many. An almost untouched country with wide open spaces, the vast Gobi desert and opportunities for unique experiences like eagle hunting, staying with local families in traditional yurts, or doing entire tours on horseback.
For tips on how to plan your next trip check out my Travel Planning 101 Guide.
Which of these are you ticking off your bucket list in 2024?
