Searching for travel inspiration? Here are eight unique holiday destinations that are guaranteed to give you instant wanderlust.
As a full time travel blogger, I'm continually in a state of travel planning and wondering where I'll be headed next. Sometimes I'll work with a tourism board and on other occasions, I'll travel according to the cheapest flights I can find.
On many occasions, it all comes down to my own personal bucket list of places that I'd like to see in my lifetime. As time goes on, my wish list seems to grow larger and larger.
If you're not quite sure where to go next, I have some suggestions for you. These can be somewhat unusual places to visit. These spots might have your friends asking you, "why are you going there?".
Choosing less visited places around the world is sustainable and might even offer a better experience. With fewer tourists, it's likely that you won't encounter large crowds of people. Plus, you'll spread tourism dollars to other places worldwide that could use them.
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Unique Holiday Destinations: Botswana
What comes to mind when you think of Botswana? Botswana is an amazing holiday destination for safaris, home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet.
Known as the "Jewel of the Kalahari", the natural scenery is almost too stunning to be real. The Kalahari Desert is largest unbroken expanse of sand on earth.
You can visit the baobabs of Nxai Pans, Kubu Island in the north, the salt pans of Makgadikgadi, and the wild creatures of the Okavango Delta.
The government of Botswana is committed to responsible and sustainable tourism, including the preservation of its environmental and cultural heritage.
They take control of visitor numbers, manage anti-poaching operations, protect the country's wild regions that cover 20% of its land mass, and lead conservation efforts in Africa.
Best of all, you'll be amazed by witnessing animals like lions, hippos, elephants, and leopards. Take a luxury safari to Botswana for an exclusive safari experience, staying in lavish lodges as a base to visit remote game reserves.
Botswana is one of the most unique holiday destinations for lovers of nature and animal encounters.
Peten, Guatemala
If you're seeking more unusual holiday destinations, head to Peten, Guatemala for charming villages and incredible historic sites. While many visitors to Guatemala stick to Antigua and Guatemala City, you'll want to book your flight north to Flores.
I volunteered at ARCAS, a wildlife rescue center across from the island of Flores. While it was an incredible experience to help animals (victims of wildlife trafficking), there are many other sights and attractions in the region that remain off the beaten path.
You can visit ARCAS' education center for a short trip if you'd like to learn more about their goals, as well as view animals in their long term care. It's just a water taxi ride away from Flores.
While in Flores, wander around the cobblestone streets of this bohemian island. Marvel at its colorful homes and check out a beautiful church at its center.
The main attraction of Peten is Tikal National Park, a major site of Mayan civilization in the middle of the jungle.
Set aside an entire day to explore Tikal's temples, palaces, and public squares. You can climb several of the historic structures and even book a sunrise trek to the top of one of them.
While many flock to Costa Rica and Belize, I recommend that you visit the lesser trekked regions of Guatemala for one of the most unique holiday destinations.
Sri Lanka
When I traveled to Sri Lanka, many of my former co-workers wondered why I was going there. Sri Lanka is the "Jewel of the Indian Ocean" with beautiful beaches, fascinating natural and historic wonders, and incredible wildlife.
From the ancient ruins at Sigiriya Rock to the elephants at Kaudulla National Park, you certainly won't run out of places to discover in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is one of the most unique holiday destinations that stole my heart. I'd love to return to see more in the future.
Sri Lanka is also an ideal country to explore the wonders of Ayurveda, yoga, and wellness. Set aside some time to better your mind, body, and spirit.
Ayurvedic medicine is thought to be the world's oldest healthcare system. The traditions are over 5000 years old, and people still practice them today. I recommend visiting a wellness retreat where you can practice meditation, yoga, and receive Ayurvedic spa treatments.
Tibet
For a life-changing and incredibly unique holiday destination, visit the far-flung Tibet in southwest China. It's often described as the "Roof of the World". Not only is Tibet a high altitude destination, but it's surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world.
Tibet, China is an amazing place to visit for its dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, and intriguing culture. There are many outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that you won't find anywhere else.
Start your adventure to Tibet in Lhasa (fun fact: I had an adorable Lhasa Apso dog when I was growing up and their roots are traced to Lhasa!) . Learn about the history of Tibetan culture and religion through visiting Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Street pilgrimage circuit.
Continue beyond Lhasa to experience the brilliant turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake and venture across Himalayan passes. It's even possible to continue onwards to Mount Everest Base Camp. Tibet travel is a truly remarkable vacation you'll always remember.
Guyana
Guyana might be flying under the radar, but it's one of the most unusual places to visit with plenty to offer. If you love nature and wildlife, you'll want to pack your bags and head straight to Guyana.
There are over 800 bird species that live in Guyana in a rainbow of colors. In fact, Georgetown has the largest number of bird species among and capital city in the world.
As far as unusual city breaks go, Georgetown might not immediately come to mind, but you'll want to visit on your trip to Guyana.
For the adrenaline junkie, learn abseiling at Mount Roraima for an exciting adventure that takes courage and strength. Hop in a small plane to view the magnificent Kaieteur Falls from above. You can even take a night safari with trained naturalists from various eco-lodges.
Westfjords, Iceland
For those who think that Iceland is completely overrun with tourists, think again. While we do have to pay attention to overtourism in many places like Iceland, I didn't find it to be a problem in many spots we traveled to in the country.
For more unique holiday destinations in Iceland (that are arguably more memorable anyway), head north to the Westfjords.
We rarely saw any cars or other people while driving the narrow, windy roads of this northern Icelandic region. If you're seeking isolation and dramatic beauty in Iceland, you'll want to add some extra time to see the Westfjords.
One main draw are the Latrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point of the country and the largest bird nesting site in Europe.
There are millions of birds that live there, including puffins, nestled into the massive, craggy rocks. In mid-June, we had no problems seeing tons of adorable little puffins.
It's one of the more unusual holiday destinations in Iceland, considering that most people flock to the Golden Circle and the South Coast. However, the Westfjords are one of the more magical and remote regions of the country that you don't want to miss.
West Coast of New Zealand's South Island
New Zealand is definitely a popular place to visit. It's not one of the most unique holiday destinations in the world.
However, many vacations and tours hit up the bigger cities and towns, like Auckland, Queenstown, Christchurch, and Wellington.
While I'm not advocating that you skip any of the popular spots, I suggest renting a car in New Zealand and exploring on your own terms.
While in New Zealand's South Island, drive from Wanaka through the Haast Pass and towards the West Coast. You'll find brilliant coastal views, stunning beaches, and impressive rock formations.
Book a helicopter ride at Franz Josef Glacier. Visit the fascinating limestone landscape at Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks). When we stayed at Port Elizabeth (near Greymouth), we had an entire rocky beach to ourselves to marvel at the waves crashing along the shore.
Traveling by car or camper van allows you to drive wherever you'd like, which also means making the journey to unique holiday destinations that the larger tour buses don't frequent.
Fogo Island, Canada
And lastly, I couldn't help but include part of my own home country, Canada. Newfoundland has the perfect mix of beautiful natural scenery and charming towns with a vibrant culture.
While Newfoundland is growing in popularity among Canadians and international travelers, few make it as far north as Fogo Island. There's something that's just so magical and mystical about a vacation to Fogo Island that leaves a lasting impression.
An island off an island, Fogo Island is a remote community nestled off the northeast shores of Newfoundland. It's Canada's own "Emerald Isle" where it's thought to have an even more historic Irish population than Ireland itself.
From the sweeping landscapes, a connection to the local community, and one of the most beautiful hotels in the world (Fogo Island Inn), this enchanting land makes you feel like you're standing at the edge of the earth.
Want more travel tips and inspiration? Follow me on Instagram! I share daily adventures, whether I'm at home in Ontario, Canada, or halfway across the world!
Don't forget travel insurance!
Heading out of the country? Don't forget to get travel insurance. It's best to be covered in case of an emergency, cancellation or accident.
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