nat geo travel list

Top 30 travel destinations worldwide for 2024 revealed by National Geographic

From “wildlife havens and urban escapes to off-grid locales and cultural gems,” National Geographic Traveller’s Cool List 2023 reveals destinations that are “set to make the news” next year, a company press release said.

National Geographic Traveller (UK) announced a list of thirty locations which span five continents that were chosen by editors as the “top places and spaces around the world where tourism benefits communities and the environment as much as the visitors and locals themselves.”

“The 30 entries reflect an incredible range, featuring everything from exciting immersive journeys to inspirational visits that could take just a few hours,” the statement says. 

“Whether it’s culinary excellence, solar eclipses, night trains, new national parks, rewilding initiatives, ancient wonders revisited or cultural landmarks, we’ve curated some of the best travel destinations for the next 12 months,” Pat Riddell, editor of National Geographic Traveller (UK), was quoted as saying in the statement. “From Canada, the US and Argentina to Sierra Leone, Sikkim, Australia and beyond, the world is represented in all its full glory.”

National Geographic's top 30 travel destinations for 2024 

• Albanian Alps, Albania
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• Europe by train
• Galloway & Southern Ayrshire, Scotland
• Nordland, Norway
• North Yorkshire, England
• Pompeii, Italy

Learn more: Best travel insurance

More: Amtrak unveils new fleet of Airo trains and the 14 routes they will serve

• Saimaa, Finland
• Tartu, Estonia
• The Euros, Germany
• Valletta, Malta
• Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

North America

• Dominican Republic
• Nova Scotia, Canada
• Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

South America

• Atacama Desert, Chile
• Iberá Wetlands, Argentina
• Akagera, Rwanda
• Andrefana Dry Forests, Madagascar
• Sierra Leone

More: UNESCO adds 42 treasures to World Heritage List, including another in a Midwest state

• Sikkim, India
• Tainan, Taiwan
• Xi’an, China

Australasia

• Victoria, Australia

To see the full list online, visit: nationalgeographic.com.

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National Geographic Reveals 25 Amazing Places To Travel

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National Geographic has unveiled its annual list of the 25 inspiring destinations for 2023. Nat Geo’s “Best of the World,” is themed around five categories: Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature, and new this year, Community.

“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. 

“With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support — not damage — the destination’s environment and community. We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

Here is National Geographic’s “ Best of the World ” list for 2023.

These five destinations were chosen because Nat Geo says they allow you to immerse yourself in history and heritage.

• Appian Way, Italy: Rome’s “Gateway to the East” is known as Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” It was selected for its ability to take you on a trip through history. 
• Busan, South Korea: As the nation’s second largest city, it’s known for its beaches, mountains, and temples.
• Charleston, South Carolina : With its cobblestone streets and Low Country Cuisine, this city allows you to explore culture and history.
• Egypt: Home to King Tut’s new home at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes, this country that links northeast Africa to the Middle East dates back to the time of the pharaohs.
• Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China: This is one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art of the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, made up of 2,300 caves, almost 110,000 Buddhist stone statues, and more.

Described by Nat Geo as “wildly underrated,” these five destinations will spark a new appreciation for our planet.

• Scottish Highlands : This mountain region in northwest Scotland has incredible scenery and is praised for its movement to restore the original landscape.
• Botswana : Located in Southern Africa, this landlocked country is home to several notable animal species like giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas and is selected for its programs to rehabilitate the species that are endangered.
• Slovenia : This central European country is known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes and was selected for this category for being a longtime leader in sustainable tourism.
• Big Bend National Park : This park located in southern Texas was chosen because of its surprising landscape.
• Azores : This is an island region in Portugal known for nature and sustainability, which is why it was selected.

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These five destinations are chosen by Nat Geo because they’re for those looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure.

• New Zealand : If you’re looking for a post-pandemic adrenaline rush, you’ll be interested in this country known for adventure; after all, it did invent bungee jumping.
• Choquequirao, Peru : This Incan site in southern Peru may not be well-known, but it will remind you of the architecture of Machu Picchu.
• Utah : This landlocked state out west may be known for skiing, but was chosen for this category for the adrenaline rush you can get from the less visited parts.
• Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico : Known as the “Galápagos of Mexico,” was selected because it holds one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world and is an iconic dive destination.
• Austria : Located in the southern part of Central Europe, it’s known for castles and palaces, but is becoming more popular for cross-country hikes to sample local culture.

Chosen for being forward-thinking, these five destinations were selected by Nat Geo because they offer opportunities for meaningful travel.

• Dodecanese Islands, Greece: This is a group of 15 large and 150 small Greek Islands, chosen for this category because there are women-led ventures and sustainable tourism.
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin : This Great Lakes city is known for its celebration of breweries but was selected because it is becoming known for how it celebrates its culture.
• Alberta, Canada : This is home to Banff National Park and iconic Lake Louise. The traditional countryside and contemporary perspectives come together here.
• Laos : Located in southeast Asia, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries come together here. Chosen for this category because of a new high-speed train that makes lesser-known regions more accessible to tourists and locals.
• Ghana: This country in West Africa is becoming known for its fashion-forward capital, Accra.

Chosen to “inspire the whole family in 2023,” these five destinations are family trips that Nat Geo says will help educate and illuminate.

• Trinidad and Tobago: As the southernmost island country in the Caribbean, it’s known for beaches and nature. Because of that, it was chosen for its work saving turtles at one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world.
• San Francisco, California : You’re probably thinking of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and steep streets, but it was chosen for other activities like Presidio Tunnel campfires and hiking the Crosstown Trail.
• Colombia : Disney’s Encanto brought this country to a whole new audience. Enjoy the story while also birdwatching in this “avian paradise” of South America.
• Manchester, England: With a rich industrial heritage, this city mixes history with sports as it’s home to Manchester United.
• Switzerland : Take a train ride through this country famous for the Alps and chocolate. Take in hiking and skiing as you visit its quaint towns.

To read other articles about where to travel, check out: 

• 12 Under-The-Radar Tour Destinations For 2023, According To Experts
• 17 Most Popular Tour Destinations To Visit In 2023, According To Experts
• 4 Places You Should Travel As Soon As You Retire

Allison spent almost 20 years of her career as a TV news anchor. She’s covered everything from political conventions to Super Bowl LV to hurricanes and, most recently, the pandemic. She is a two-time Emmy award-winning journalist. She's been recognized for her work nationally and regionally by organizations including the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES REIMAGINED BEST OF THE WORLD FRANCHISE WITH EXPANDED TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS ACROSS ENHANCED CATEGORIES

NEW SELECTIONS INCLUDE EXPERIENCE-LED TRIPS, HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, CULTURAL SPOTS, WELLNESS RETREATS AND TRAVEL GEAR, PLUS REVAMPED TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR LIST — FEATURING DOLLY PARTON, PATTIE GONIA AND OTHERS

Nat Geo Also Drops New Three-Part YouTube Originals Series Hosted by Today’s Top Travel Content Creators, Giving Audiences an Up-Close Look at Some of the BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 Destinations

**Spokespeople and Visuals Available**

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 30, 2024) – National Geographic today announced their picks for BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 , the brand’s annual guide of the most exciting, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind travel experiences for 2024, timed to National Plan for Vacation Day.

Curated by National Geographic’s team of experts and editors around the globe, this year’s list features not only must-see destinations but expands the franchise to include a complete and authoritative suite of must-do, must-stay and must-consume recommendations for travelers to engage with these destinations more deeply and meaningfully. 

“National Geographic is synonymous with the best in travel, adventure and exploration, and now our editors are sharing the full breadth of their insight across a variety of categories with our fans all over the world,” said Courteney Monroe, president of National Geographic Content. “Whether through the pages of National Geographic magazine, @NatGeo on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, our BEST OF THE WORLD franchise has the power to ignite the explorer in everyone, from the professional traveler to the family looking for their next adventure.”

For the first time ever, Nat Geo’s BEST OF THE WORLD recommendations also include a selection of wellness retreats, hotels, cultural gems and restaurants that National Geographic’s experts agree are “worth building a trip around,” as well as a list of the top 20 travel adventures for the year ahead. Also new for 2024 is a list of the top expert-approved travel products and a newly introduced set of changemakers who inspire National Geographic’s own global community of travel experts on where and how to travel.

From horseback safaris in Kenya to exclusive travel insight from Dolly Parton , BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 has something to inspire everyone.

“At National Geographic, we know that travel has the power to move you. That the experiences you have can make you see the world — and yourself — in a new light. Our expanded BEST OF THE WORLD franchise is the ultimate guide to the exceptional experiences that we and our global community of experts are most excited about right now, whether that’s hiking to the El Valle de Antón volcano in Panama or listening to live music in Kyoto or bear-watching in Alaska,” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s editor-in-chief. “This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever before to jumpstart their travel planning for 2024 and beyond, so we grew our lists to include curated hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats and cultural spots that we believe are worth getting on a plane for, and gear that will make your travels smoother. And because we know that people can also be a great source of inspiration, we’re sharing our picks for Travelers of the Year—those individuals who, through their example, make us all want to get out there and experience something new.”

BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 Categories:

• TOP 20 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES – A selection of must-do adventures right now. From the total eclipse in Niagara Falls in April to glacier treks in Chile, this year’s highlights include a ranking system — another first. The full list of animal-watching, rapid-rafting and road-trip experiences can be found at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .
• WORTH A TRIP: Hotels , Restaurants , Cultural Spots and Wellness Retreats – The definitive guide to the best hotels, restaurants, cultural gems and wellness retreats to plan your trips around in 2024. Each of these places is a gateway to a destination, helping travelers explore the culture, history, landscape or wildlife in a deeper and richer way.
• TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR – Global trendsetters who inspire individuals to explore and experience the best of the world. From PastaGrannies to Liliana Palma Santos to Dolly Parton , these creatives, guides, influencers and adventurers excel at exciting people about the wonders of our world, illuminating diverse cultures and showing them how to travel smarter.
• GEAR OF THE YEAR – 18 expert-approved innovative products every traveler will want to pack, whether the next big trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas. With tips from pro cyclists to adventure photographers on everything from bike racks to binoculars, Gear of the Year highlights the latest equipment travelers will be most excited to take with them in 2024.

National Geographic is also introducing new travel content to the YouTube Originals space with a three-part series featuring a diverse set of hosts and social content creators, taking viewers on a distinct journey through three locations from 2024’s BEST OF THE WORLD guide. The inaugural series brings to life the travel franchise with episodes that dive deeper into what exactly makes this year’s BEST OF THE WORLD picks so special.

The Nat Geo YouTube original series will raise the bar for travel and culinary experiences, starting with the first episode, which follows food and travel creator Lucas Sin on a scavenger hunt through Tokyo. Sin must visit local shops, use public transportation and order in Japanese, among other tasks. Eventually, he experiences the richest version of Tokyo possible, sharing his insight into what makes the featured restaurant one of the BEST OF THE WORLD . Subsequent episodes will include a luxurious lodge in Bhutan featured in the BEST OF THE WORLD list and Eva Zu Beck taking viewers on a trip to Iceland to explore one of the wellness spas featured in this year’s guide. The series is told through a diverse set of talent and local film crew, who have first-hand knowledge of the cultures of each location through lived experience. 

BEST OF THE WORLD 2024  is available online now at  NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld  and in the March issue of National Geographic magazine.

To follow the conversation on social, use #BestoftheWorld.

Visuals available here .

For more information, follow:

On Facebook: National Geographic / National Geographic Travel / National Geographic Magazine On Instagram: @natgeo / @natgeotravel On Threads: @NatGeo On YouTube: National Geographic On LinkedIn: National Geographic On TikTok: NatGeo

Media Contacts:

Anna Kukelhaus, [email protected] , (202) 258-8020 Caitlin Holbrook, [email protected] , (716) 225-0502 Janean Ruttner, [email protected] , (909) 677-8989

National Geographic Unveils Best of the World 2024 List with New Categories Including Travelers and Gear of the Year

What’s Happening:

• Nat Geo has released their annual guide to the most exciting, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind travel experiences for the year.
• New this year are categories that include hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats, and cultural spots, in addition to general destinations.
• TOP 20 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES – A selection of must-do adventures right now. From the total eclipse in Niagara Falls in April to glacier treks in Chile, this year’s highlights include a ranking system — another first. The full list of animal-watching, rapid-rafting and road-trip experiences can be found at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .
• WORTH A TRIP: Hotels, Restaurants, Cultural Spots and Wellness Retreats – The definitive guide to the best hotels, restaurants, cultural gems and wellness retreats to plan your trips around in 2024. Each of these places is a gateway to a destination, helping travelers explore the culture, history, landscape or wildlife in a deeper and richer way.
• TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR – Global trendsetters who inspire individuals to explore and experience the best of the world. From PastaGrannies to Liliana Palma Santos to Dolly Parton, these creatives, guides, influencers and adventurers excel at exciting people about the wonders of our world, illuminating diverse cultures and showing them how to travel smarter.
• GEAR OF THE YEAR – 18 expert-approved innovative products every traveler will want to pack, whether the next big trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas. With tips from pro cyclists to adventure photographers on everything from bike racks to binoculars, Gear of the Year highlights the latest equipment travelers will be most excited to take with them in 2024.
• Also new this year is a Three-Part YouTube series highlighting some of these experiences, told through a diverse set of talent and utilizing local film crews.
• Food and travel creator Lucas Sin on a scavenger hunt through Tokyo, visiting local shops, using public transportation, and ordering in Japanese.
• Social media influencer Juanpa Zurita experiencing Bhutan through a luxurious lodge featured in the BEST OF THE WORLD guide and a local homestay.
• Eva Zu Beck on a trip to Iceland to explore one of the wellness spas featured in this year’s guide.
• The list is included below, and you can interact with it at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .
• If you need assistance with travel arrangements, Laughing Place recommends Mouse Fan Travel , a division of MEI Travel.

TOP 20 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES FOR 2024

From a horseback safari in Kenya to river rafting in West Virginia, here’s the definitive list of the top 20 travel experiences right now, curated by National Geographic Explorers, Photographers, and Editors:

#1 Ultimate Safari on Horseback in Kenya

#2 Run the Olympic Marathon in Paris, France

#3 Ski Tour UNESCO Sites in Georgia

#4 Bear Watch in Katmai National Park

#5 Hear Live Music in Kyoto

#6 Cruise the Magdalena River in Colombia

#7 Road Trip Route 66 in New Mexico

#8 Explore Ancient Rock Art in Algeria

#9 Dive with Sharks on Australia's Coral Coast

#10 Hike a Volcano in Panama

#11 Catch the Total Solar Eclipse in Niagara Falls

#12 Trek a Glacier in Chile

#13 Step Back in Time at Menorca's Archaeological Sites

#14 Ride Classic Rails Through the Scottish Highlands

#15 Taste Authentic Flavor in Isaan, Thailand

#16 Wander the Tea Trail in Sri Lanka

#17 Gallery Hop in Sao Paulo, Brazil

#18 Raft the Rapids in West Virginia

#19 Go Antiquing in Hudson Valley, NY

#20 Sleep at a Floating Lodge on Tofino Island, British Columbia

WORTH A TRIP: BEST RESTAURANTS, HOTELS, CULTURAL SPOTS, AND WELLNESS EXPERIENCES

These are the hotels, restaurants, cultural spots, and wellness experiences to plan your trips around in 2024. Each of these places is a gateway to a destination, helping travelers explore the culture, history, landscape, or wildlife in a deeper and richer way.  

USA AND CANADA

• Hacienda at Armendaris, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
• HeartSong Lodge, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Under Canvas North Yellowstone-Paradise Valley, Livingston, Montana
• Rosewood Kona Village, Big Island, Hawaii
• Belnem House, Kralendijk, Bonaire
• Pink Palm Hotel, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
• Wild Lotus Glamping, Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

MEXICO, CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA

• Hotelito by MUSA, Zihuatanejo, Mexico
• Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa, Roatán, Honduras
• Our Habitas Atacama, San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
• Albergo Diffuso, Kruja, Krujë, Albania
• Raffles London at the OWO, London, England
• Wilmina, Berlin, Germany

AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST

• Moon Retreat at the Sharjah Collection, United Arab Emirates
• Residence Douz, Douz, Tunisia
• Singita Mara River Tented Camp, Tanzania
• &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, Punakha, Bhutan
• Kurulu Bay, Ahangama, Sri Lanka
• Shinta Mani Mustang, Jomsom, Nepal

AUSTRAILIA, NEW ZEALAND AND SOUTH PACIFIC

• Hara House, Bright, Victoria, Australia
• Pāmu PurePod, Rotorua, New Zealand
• Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia

BEST CULTURAL SPOTS

• Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C.
• National WWII Museum, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Canadian Canoe Museum, Ontario, Canada
• NorEste Trail, Puerto Rico
• Liamuiga Natural Farm, St. Kitts
• Molinére Underwater Sculpture Park, Grenada
• Islas Marias, Mexico
• FotoFestival Manzana 2, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
• Battersea Power Station, London, England
• Istanbul Modern, Istanbul, Turkey
• Museum of Royal Collections, Madrid, Spain
• Tartu, Estonia
• Monde des Arts de la Parure, Marrakech, Morocco
• The Manor, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Chinggis Kahn Museum, Ullanbattar, Mongolia
• Museum of Art and Photography, Bengaluru, India
• Guangzhou Museum of Art, Guangzhou, China
• Ōmataroa Eco-Tours, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
• Sarjeant Gallery, Whanganui, New Zealand
• Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia  

BEST WELLNESS EXPERIENCES

• Kosa Spa, Madison, Wisconsin
• Othership, Toronto, Canada
• QC NY Spa, Governors Island, New York City
• Rockhouse Hotel, Negril, Jamaica
• Amenta Wellness Journeys, Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayo Levantado Resort, Dominican Republic
• Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
• Hotel Nantipa, Santa Theresa, Costa Rica
• The Shack, José Ignacio, Uruguay
• Bad Ischl, Austria
• Forest Lagoon, Akureyri, Iceland
• Göta Canal Trail, Sweden
• Six Senses Rome Spa, Rome, Italy
• Kisawa Sanctuary, Benguerra Island, Mozambique
• Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, Al Ruwais, Qatar
• Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand
• IndiaHikes’ Adventure Therapy, Himalayas, India
• Soulshine, Bali, Indonesia
• Cunnamulla Hot Springs, Queensland, Australia
• The Great Rides Network, Rotorua, New Zealand
• Bora Hiking Explorer, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

BEST RESTAURANTS

• Ōkta, Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Carriqui, San Antonio, Texas
• Market 57, New York City
• Marina Cay Bar & Grill, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• Artisan, Saint Lucia
• Libre, Bogotá, Colombia
• La Vida, Mendoza, Argentina
• Foresta, Quito, Ecuador
• Krone Säumerei am Inn, La Punt Chaumes-ch, Switzerland
• Mercado de la Imprenta, Valencia, Spain
• Tertin Kartano (Tertti Manor), Saimaa region, Finland
• The Three Horseshoes, Somerset, England
• Meza Malonga Musanze, Kigali, Rwanda
• Orfali Bros Bistro, Dubai, UAE
• Cole Street Guesthouse, Freetown, Sierra Leone
• Swallow Tainan, Taiwan
• Udatsu Sushi, Tokyo, Japan
• Lai Ching Heen, Hong Kong
• Dunedin Craft Distillers, Dunedin, New Zealand
• Surfhouse Restaurant and Reeftop Bar, Tahiti, French Polynesia
• Saint Peter, Sydney, Australia

GEAR OF THE YEAR

Whether your next big trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas, here are 18 expert-approved innovative products you’ll want to pack.

• Endlessly customizable backpack – Osprey Archeon
• 100-percent recycled backpacks – Patagonia Black Hole Collection
• Convertible carry-on – PROPS  
• Durable roller bag for tight spaces – Cotopaxi Allpa
• Customizable padded packing cube – Away The Protective Packing Cube (6L)
• Light portable solar panel – BigBlue SolarPowa 30 ETFE Camping Solar Panel Charger
• Fast power charger – Anker Prime Power Bank 250W
• Heavy-duty universal bike rack – Thule Epos
• Ultra-compact binoculars – Swarovski Optik CL Curio
• Feature-loaded, budget-friendly binoculars – NOCS Field Issue
• Waterproof, sustainable hiking boots – Oboz Cottonwood
• Super grippy water sandals – Teva Hydratrek
• Recyclable rain jacket – Patagonia Boulder Fork
• Fast-drying wool base layer – IBEX Woolies Tech Pro Crew
• GPS tracker dog collar – Halo 3
• Travel-ready pet first-aid kits – Wolf Republic first-aid kit  & Adventure Ready Heeler
• Convertible rescue dog harness – Fido Pro Panza rescue harness

TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR

From a family in search of African ancestors to a music icon celebrating her Tennessee roots, our Travelers of the Year inspire us to experience the best of the world and, once we’re out the door, help to make our journeys more meaningful. These are explorers, boundary breakers, and changemakers who know a thing or two about where and how to travel right now and, yes, what to pack.

• Pattie Gonia  – Queer Outdoor and Environmental Job Board
• Dolly Parton  – Dollywood , Imagination Library, and more
• Vicky Bennison – Pasta Grannies
• The Anderson Family – Exploring Legacy
• Susanne Etti – Intrepid Travel
• Leo Ghitis – Nayara Resorts
• Zakia Moulaoui Guery – Invisible Cities
• Liliana Palma Santos – Zapotec Travel
• Vasu Sojitra – Inclusive Outdoors Project

What They’re Saying:

• Courteney Monroe , president of National Geographic Content: “National Geographic is synonymous with the best in travel, adventure and exploration, and now our editors are sharing the full breadth of their insight across a variety of categories with our fans all over the world. Whether through the pages of National Geographic magazine, @NatGeo on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, our BEST OF THE WORLD franchise has the power to ignite the explorer in everyone, from the professional traveler to the family looking for their next adventure.”
• Nathan Lump , National Geographic’s editor-in-chief: “At National Geographic, we know that travel has the power to move you. That the experiences you have can make you see the world — and yourself — in a new light. Our expanded BEST OF THE WORLD franchise is the ultimate guide to the exceptional experiences that we and our global community of experts are most excited about right now, whether that’s hiking to the El Valle de Antón volcano in Panama or listening to live music in Kyoto or bear-watching in Alaska. This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever before to jumpstart their travel planning for 2024 and beyond, so we grew our lists to include curated hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats and cultural spots that we believe are worth getting on a plane for, and gear that will make your travels smoother. And because we know that people can also be a great source of inspiration, we’re sharing our picks for Travelers of the Year—those individuals who, through their example, make us all want to get out there and experience something new.”

NatGeo's top 20 travel locations featured in 'Best of the World 2024'

National Geographic announced their list of top travel destinations in "Best of the World 2024."

National Geographic's team of experts and editors around the globe makes the list each year.

"National Geographic is synonymous with the best in travel, adventure and exploration, and now our editors are sharing the full breadth of their insight across a variety of categories with our fans all over the world," said Courteney Monroe, president of National Geographic Content. "Whether through the pages of National Geographic magazine, @NatGeo on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, our Best of the World franchise has the power to ignite the explorer in everyone, from the professional traveler to the family looking for their next adventure."

It's not just locations that the "Best of the World" offers, it's also including wellness retreats, hotels, cultural gems, and restaurants.

Their goal was to find things to do that were "worth building a trip around."

"This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever before to jumpstart their travel planning for 2024 and beyond, so we grew our lists to include curated hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats and cultural spots that we believe are worth getting on a plane for, and gear that will make your travels smoother. And because we know that people can also be a great source of inspiration, we're sharing our picks for Travelers of the Year-those individuals who, through their example, make us all want to get out there and experience something new," said Nathan Lump, National Geographic's Editor-in-Chief.

BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 Categories:

Top 20 travel experiences.

- A selection of must-do adventures right now. From the total eclipse in Niagara Falls in April to glacier treks in Chile, this year's highlights include a ranking system - another first. The full list of animal-watching, rapid-rafting and road-trip experiences can be found at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld.

WORTH A TRIP:

Hotels, Restaurants, Cultural Spots and Wellness Retreats - The definitive guide to the best hotels, restaurants, cultural gems and wellness retreats to plan your trips around in 2024. Each of these places is a gateway to a destination, helping travelers explore the culture, history, landscape or wildlife in a deeper and richer way.

TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR

- Global trendsetters who inspire individuals to explore and experience the best of the world. From PastaGrannies to Liliana Palma Santos to Dolly Parton, these creatives, guides, influencers and adventurers excel at exciting people about the wonders of our world, illuminating diverse cultures and showing them how to travel smarter.

GEAR OF THE YEAR

- 18 expert-approved innovative products every traveler will want to pack, whether the next big trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas. With tips from pro cyclists to adventure photographers on everything from bike racks to binoculars, Gear of the Year highlights the latest equipment travelers will be most excited to take with them in 2024.

You can also find new content on YouTube with a three-part series on three different locations featured in the "Best of the World" guide.

"Best of the World 2024" is available online now at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

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National Geographic revealed the top travel destinations of 2024—here’s what to pack for your trip

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Updated April 10, 2024

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National geographic’s top 2024 travel experiences.

• Horseback safari in Kenya.
• Olympic Marathon in Paris.
• Ski tour through UNESCO sites in Georgia.
• Bear-watching at Katmai National Park, Alaska.
• Live music in Kyoto, Japan.
• Magdalena River Cruise in Colombia.
• Road trip on Route 66 in New Mexico.
• Explore ancient rock art in Algeria.
• Dive with sharks on Australia's Coral Coast.
• Volcano hiking in Panama.
• Observe the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls, New York.
• Trek a glacier in Chile.
• Step back in time at Menorca's archaeological sites.
• Ride classic rails through the Scottish Highlands.
• Indulge your taste buds in Isan, Thailand.
• Wander the tea trail in Sri Lanka.
• Gallery hop in Sao Paulo.
• Raft the rapids in West Virginia.
• Go antiquing in Hudson Valley, New York.
• Sleep at a floating lodge on Tofino Island, British Columbia.

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National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel: Share the World With Your Kids on 50 Adventures of a Lifetime Hardcover – February 6, 2024

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• South Africa, where you can walk on a beach with penguins
• Utah, where ice castles bring a world of magic to a vacation full of natural wonders
• Berlin, where holidays come to life at beloved Christmas markets
• The Galapagos, where your kids will squeal with joy as they encounter penguins and larger-than-life tortoises
• Alaska, where you’ll feel you’ve gone truly wild in the last frontier
• And so much more!
• Print length 416 pages
• Language English
• Publisher National Geographic
• Publication date February 6, 2024
• Dimensions 8.27 x 1.19 x 10.31 inches
• ISBN-10 1426222238
• ISBN-13 978-1426222238
• See all details

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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ National Geographic (February 6, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 416 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1426222238
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1426222238
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 3.41 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.27 x 1.19 x 10.31 inches
• #3 in Family Travel Guides
• #4 in Family Activity
• #8 in Adventure Travel (Books)

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Customer Review: Travel Guide Gem: A Must-Have for Adventurous Families

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Customer Review: Immediate family favorite!!

Customer Review: Very informative and beautiful!

About the author

Jessica gee.

If you would've told me 10 years ago that I'd be a National Geographic published author, I never would've believed you. I'd also think you were lying if you told me that I'd be a world traveler and would be soon be ticking off my 100th country visited WITH MY CHILDREN..? No way José!

But here I am.

In 2015 my husband, myself and our two little kids made a decision to do "a little bit of traveling" at a time in our life when we were unsure of what was next. "A little bit of traveling" turned into 3 years of full-time travel, countless flights, hundreds of hotel rooms and 90+ countries.

Over the last 8 years we've documented our family travels on social media as The Bucket List Family. My husband, Garrett is the creative mind who is always shooting for the stars. I'm the one who makes sure we all land safely back in the atmosphere. I was honored when Nat Geo asked me to write a book on family travel. I've spent the last three years putting together everything I know into a really beautiful book that I'm so proud of.

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• Travel Inspiration

The Top Travel Destinations of 2024, According to Nat Geo

Depending on what you are looking for on a trip, there's a destination for almost anything..

Updated on 1/31/2024 at 3:21 PM

2024 is slated to be be the biggest year for travel since the pandemic began. With the full return to travel, there are a flood of options for how you can take your big trip this year. An abundance of options is great, but it also means that making that precious choice can feel way more more difficult. To help you make a decision and inspire your wanderlust, National Geographic has released its 2024 list of top travel destinations . The list this year includes a focus on hotels, restaurants, cultural destinations, and wellness hotspots. 

Below are the top destinations and experiences, which include a mix of adventures for every tier of interest. Some suggestions are as adventurous cruising an epic river in Colombia and exploring ancient art in Algeria, to riding classic trains in Scotland and antiquing in the Hudson Valley. Below are the 20 best adventures you can have for 2024, according to Nat Geo:

1. Go horseback riding in Kenya 2. Run an Olympic marathon in Paris 3. Ski-tour UNESCO sites in Georgia 4. Bear watch in Katmai National Park 5. Hear legendary live music in Kyoto 6. Cruise an epic river in Colombia 7. Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico 8. Explore ancient art in Algeria 9. Dive with sharks in Western Australia 10. Hike a volcano in Panama 11. Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls 12. Trek a glacier in Chile 13. Step back in time on Menorca 14. Ride classic rails in Scotland 15. Find authentic flavor in Thailand 16. Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka 17. Gallery hop in São Paolo 18. Raft the rapids in West Virginia 19. Go antiquing in Hudson Valley 20. Sleep on the water in British Colombia

Check out more detailed information about National Geographic 's Best of the World list for 2024 at Nat Geo 's website , because you need a bit more information before you can swim with the sharks of Western Australia. And then, check out Thrillist's ongoing updates about flight deals , to make sure you can get the best price for your 2024 adventures.

Looking for more travel inspo?

If you're ready for an adventure but not sure where you'd like to go or what to do, we're on it. The best new hotels opening up around the world. The most exciting places to travel without a passport . The world's best beaches , as ranked by travel influencers. It's all here along with all the travel news you need to stay informed and inspired.

Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram , Twitter , Pinterest , YouTube , TikTok , and Snapchat .

5 cool neighbourhoods to explore in Washington, DC

The US capital’s classic sights will always appeal, but take the time to stray a little further and you’ll find colourful, cosmopolitan neighbourhoods breathing new life into the city.

Many first-time visitors to Washington, DC understandably make a beeline for the striking monuments and museums of the National Mall — the vast expanse of parkland that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the US Capitol. Look further afield, however, and the city’s eclectic charm unfurls. Over 131 neighbourhoods, each with their own flavour and flare, can be found throughout the city, from the historic enclaves of Georgetown to the global cafes and jazzy bohemian quarters of Adams Morgan.  

1. Capitol Riverfront and Southwest  

The former site of one of the nation’s oldest naval facilities, Capitol Riverfront has been transformed into a haven for sports fans, nature-lovers and foodies. Set along the banks of the Anacostia River, just south of the US Capitol, this fast-growing, urban area has seen its dining scene blossom in recent years. Now, visitors can enjoy house-brewed beer at Bluejacket , locally-sourced seafood at The Salt Line and spectacular waterfront views at District Winery , to name a few. The area also draws in legions of passionate baseball and soccer fans. Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals have their home stadium here, which features outstanding views of the US Capitol dome from many of its 40,000-plus seats, while Audi Field, home to Major League Soccer’s DC United, offers state-of-the-art facilities that also host a variety of cultural events, community activities and concerts.  

Just around the corner, Southwest and The Wharf is another riverside neighbourhood peppered with idyllic parks and green spaces. This makes it the perfect spot for a variety of watersports, free festivals and unique events, such as the District’s Holiday Boat Parade and the Running of the Chihuahuas on Cinco de Mayo.

2. Georgetown

Widely regarded as DC’s most historic neighbourhood, Georgetown was originally established in the 1700s as a tobacco-port town and housed a lumber yard, cement works and the Washington Flour Mill. Today, visitors can amble its cobblestone streets to scout out its federal architecture, historic brick-and-frame row houses and iconic landmarks, such as the Old Stone House, the famous steps from The Exorcist and the one-time homes of JFK and TV chef Julia Child. The area is also home to the iconic Blues Alley Club , which is the oldest, continuously-operated jazz supper club in the US and has played host to many international artists.  

For food, head to Georgetown’s waterfront, where an array of restaurants, such as Sequoia , Tony and Joe's Seafood Place , Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers and Fiola Mare , offer patio seating and scenic views. Those looking for a slightly more upscale experience should visit the 1789 Restaurant & Bar , which serves seasonal, contemporary American cuisine in a historic federal townhouse.

Steeped in African American history, Shaw is one neighbourhood that’s seen major revitalisation in recent years. It’s located in the popular northwest quadrant of Washington, DC and takes its name from Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, who commanded an all-Black regiment during the Civil War. Visitors can learn about the area’s rich history at the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum , which recalls the events of the war through to the Civil Rights movement with related photos, letters, artefacts and soldier’s uniforms.

Shaw also had a thriving alley culture in the 19th and 20th centuries. Located behind DC’s blocks of rowhouses, these intersecting, brick-paved zones, once filled with stables, workshops and working-class dwellings, have now become a mecca for trendy restaurants, hip bars and boutiques. Head to Causa , located in Blagden Alley, for Michelin-starred Peruvian seafood, Andean cuisine and one of the nation’s largest pisco sour libraries. Alternatively, Supra , located just down the street, is the place to sample traditional Georgian fare, including khachapuri (cheese bread and eggs) and khinkali   (soup dumplings).  

4. U Street  

Few of DC’s neighbourhoods feature the variety and notoriety of U Street and its trendy 14th Street corridor. An epicentre of art and African American heritage, this bustling stretch of hospitality-packed real estate includes everything from dive bars to avant-garde dining rooms. It’s also the place to experience the city’s exciting music scene. Bordering the Shaw neighbourhood to the east, the iconic Howard Theatre is one of the best venues to catch a live jazz performance and has seen the likes of Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald grace its hallowed stage. Meanwhile, for rock and alternative groups, make a beeline for the revered 9:30 Club . This legendary venue features an electrifying lineup, with sold out shows from upcoming bands and artists.  

U Street is also a unique destination for shopping, with various vintage and artisanal stores, quirky boutiques and bookshops. Stop by Salt & Sundry , located on 14th Street corridor, to peruse its eclectic emporium of home wares, jewellery and gifts. These products are created by a mix of independent makers and designers, both local and international.

5. Adams Morgan

Known for its historic houses, colourful murals and cosmopolitan culinary scene, the Adams Morgan neighbourhood captures the essence of the city’s diversity. Here, restaurants range from Ethiopian and Ghanaian to Dutch, Cajun, Palestinian, Peruvian, Pakistani and Lebanese. Whatever visitors are looking for, they’ll find it along the area’s main thoroughfare — vibrant 18th Street. The pace picks up at night when the District’s iconic bars, such as Roofers Union and Madam’s Organ , host live music, DJ sets and karaoke, while a more lowkey spot, Perry’s Rooftop , serves Japanese fare with an extensive drinks menu, including whiskey and sake cocktails.  

Adams Morgan is also the ideal place to while away a long afternoon. Scout out the region’s kaleidoscope of street art, including vibrant murals, colourful building faces, painted jersey barriers and more, before taking a long stroll through Meridian Hill Park to admire the cascading fountain, which is one of the largest in North America. The best time of year to visit, however, is in September for the annual Adams Morgan Day Festival , which sees the streets come alive with international music, art and food.

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Travel | US News and World Report’s top 10 bucket list…

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Travel | first 7 jurors are chosen for trump’s hush money criminal trial; 11 more still needed, subscriber only, travel | us news and world report’s top 10 bucket list destinations in alaska.

It’s not all college rankings. U.S. News and World Report’s editors frequently rate travel destinations too, and circle round to Alaska’s splendid scenery each year. The most recent of those Alaskan must-see lists includes 17 national parks, historic towns and spectacular sights.

The Last Frontier’s “rugged beauty, fascinating wildlife and charming seaside towns… magnificent glaciers, rich Native American culture and breathtaking views of the aurora borealis” make Alaska a must-see for any adventurer, writes travel editor Alissa Grisler.

Her list includes Kenai Fjords National Park (No. 4), an icy wonderland fed by nearly 40 glaciers from the Harding Icefield. The gateway to the park, the port city of Seward, stands at No. 9. And the nation’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias  (No. 8) belongs on any bucket list. Its 13.2 million acres run from sea level to 18,000-foot mountains. It’s an expanse so enormous, say park rangers, it’s larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite and Switzerland combined.

Find all 17 sights and details on each at https://travel.usnews.com. Meanwhile, here’s just a peek.

Top 10 places to visit in Alaska

1 Fairbanks

2 Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

3 Ketchikan

4 Kenai Fjords National Park

5 Denali National Park and Preserve

10 Talkeetna

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Watch: Hordes of baby penguins jump off 50ft ice cliff

T he mystery of why hordes of baby penguins congregate at the top of vertiginously sheer cliffs in Antarctica has finally been solved – they are there to jump off.

Filmmakers from National Geographic were astonished to see hundreds of fledgling emperor penguins leaping from 50ft ice sheets into the freezing water below.

It is known that at six months old, the chicks leave their colonies and march to the ocean to take their first swim, but they usually only dive from heights of 1-2ft.

Since 2009, satellite imagery has shown that some colonies are breeding and raising their chicks high up on ice shelves, and many have been spotted making their way to the edge of steep cliffs.

Now for the first time filmmakers have shown that chicks are leaping from the summit of the Ekström Ice Shelf at Atka Bay, often belly-flopping into the water beneath, before bobbing to the surface, completely unscathed.

It is the first time this moment has been captured on camera.

The footage was captured in January by Bertie Gregory for National Geographic’s documentary series Secrets of the Penguins which is due to air next year.

In the film, around 700 baby penguins were seen making their way to the cliff and loitering trying to pluck up the courage to make the jump. 

Once the first one took the plunge, the others soon followed suit.

Mr Gregory said: “I’ve only ever seen emperors jump in off the sea ice and that is a couple of feet maximum.

‘Pretty unbelievable to see’

“We know these chicks have grown up together and they stick together. 

“Those first brave jumpers seem to give the rest the confidence to follow. 

“Some of them are even trying to flap their wings.

“I had no idea that the chicks would be able to make such a giant leap and not just survive but happily swim off together into the Southern Ocean. 

“That is a pretty unbelievable thing to see.”

Mr Gergory and the production team lived and worked from a tented camp on the Ekström Ice Shelf near the main Atka Bay penguin colony for almost nine weeks.

The team worked for two months in minus 5C using drone technology to capture overhead views.

Emperor penguin chicks start to lose their fluffy baby down when they are five months old, replacing it with feathers which they waterproof using oil from their preen gland.

In January each year, the new generation leaves their colony en masse in a rite of passage that will take them to the sea for the first time.

The footage is reminiscent of BBC footage of barnacle goslings diving more than 400ft from their nests to reach their parents below.

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