Top 7 Travel Destinations That Will Inspire You for 2020
Who’s ready to book some 2020 travel? Or at least get some travel inspiration? I sure am!
I love researching travel destinations and keeping tabs on some of the up and coming locations. As soon as the new year hit I started watching 2020 travel destination videos and reading top lists.
This is my curated travel destination list for 2020, based on locations I want to travel to as well as recommendations from other travelers. Read on and get ready to be inspired!
Destinations are ordered alphabetically by region below, with a second alternative location in each category. (because I can’t pick just one…seriously)
Note: Budget ranges are in USD below, and can vary based on holidays, seasons, and events.
Africa: Cape Town
When most people think of an African trip, they picture a safari or a remote village. While those are great options, there’s so much more diversity in terms of culture and travel. I would LOVE to visit Cape Town and definitely have this one on my bucket list.
Reasons to visit Cape Town:
- Landscape & Outdoor Adventure: Located beneath Table Mountain on one side, and along the ocean on the other side, there is no shortage of stunning views. Cable cars can take you to the top of the mountain for the full experience. Enjoy hiking, a botanical garden, kayaking with dolphins, and a day trip to see African Penguins.
- Thriving Food Scene (and nightlife too): Cape Town has a flavorful food history, starting in the 17th century. The city offers food trucks, food markets, small hole in the wall joints, and high-end cuisine.
- Wineries: With 3 wine regions, Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch and varied production of both red and white varietals, you’re sure to find one you love. Sounds amazing to me!
Best time of year to visit:
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($-$$) From $50 – $150+ a night for one-bedroom or two.
- Hotel Prices: ($$-$$$) Around $100 – $200+ a night.
- Food Costs: ($$-$$$) This one really varies, you could be conservative with street food, markets or more casual restaurants and spend around $30 a day. Or splurge for fine dining and spend over $100+
Transportation: ($-$$) Most places in the city are walkable. Uber is less expensive here than in the US. You may want to rent a car or hire a tour to visit wineries.
Book a Hotel in Cape Town
Africa Alternative: Morocco
Morocco is having a travel moment right now. I’ve seen this destination on many traveler’s lists for 2020. The people are friendly (they are also very welcoming to kids!), the food is delicious and unique, and the cultural experience is rich. If you plan to travel there, wander the medinas in Marrakech, find outdoor adventure in the Atlas Mountains, or spend time on the beach in Asilah.
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Asia: Japan
This is the year that Japan hosts the summer Olympics! Personally, I would try to travel to Japan any other time since prices will most likely skyrocket, but if the Olympics are your thing, this is the year! Tokyo is the city that comes to mind, but consider other locations like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, where prices will be lower. Japan has been on our travel bucket list for years! I love Europe so much I haven’t been able to pull myself away to head to Asia, but I have a feeling this will be the decade!
Reasons to visit Japan:
- An Adventure for Everyone: From bustling big city, to historic small villages, to mountains and skiing, Japan offers every type of experience. Don’t forget Japan also has islands that stretch almost as far as Taiwan, so if you want a beach vacation you could find that too! What doesn’t Japan offer?
- FOOD: I feel like I need to YELL this one because Japan is a foodie’s dream. Sushi, ramen, yakitori, soba, tempura, you name it! Japan does fresh food well.
- Transportation: Efficient and reliable transportation makes getting around Japan easy (it is extremely busy in Tokyo subways though, so do a little preparing beforehand).
Best time of year to visit:
For site-seeing, I would recommend Spring or Fall to avoid the summer high season. If you want to see the cherry blossoms, schedule a trip in early April. Ski season is best in the Hakuba region with fresh powder snow in January and February.
Budget Range (based on Tokyo):
- Airbnb Prices: ($$-$$$) Averaging around $100 a night for a one-bedroom, 2 bedrooms around $120-$150
- Hotel Prices: ($$-$$$) Anywhere from $120 – 300+ in the city center in May, prices vary throughout the year, but Tokyo is not known for being cheap.
- Food Costs: ($$-$$$) An average meal costs around 2000 yen or $9 US dollars. The sky is the limit if you want to experience fine dining.
- Transportation: ($$-$$$) Short distance train rides start at around 800 yen, or $7 USD, and long-distance can cost up to 8000 yen ($72). Taxis from the airport to Tokyo, depending on location start at 4000 yen, or $32 USD.
Book a Hotel in Tokyo
Asia Alternative: Vietnam
With delicious food, staggering landscapes and an affordable price, Vietnam is worthy of an honorable mention. If you are planning a trip there, check out Hanoi for food and a city experience, Ninh Binh for amazing cliff-like landscapes next to rice paddies, and Ha Long Bay for boat tours past towering limestone islands.
Caribbean: Barbados
Barbados is an amazing location. The people are friendly, the flying fish is tasty, and the water is beautiful! We traveled to the island in October of 2014, but would love to go back! We split our time between a smaller boutique hotel in Oistins, the Southend of the island, and the “Platinum Coast” on the West in a resort-type hotel. The Southend was walkable to small convenience stores and restaurants, a bus/car was needed to go anywhere on the West Coast.
Reasons to visit Barbados:
- Beach Variety: Whether you want a full-service secluded resort or a boutique hotel where you can walk to restaurants, Barbados has it. The East coast has big waves, South and West coasts have calm clear waters that are easy to swim in. Beaches are soft and sandy.
- Rum: Some of the oldest rum producers in the world! Mount Gay specifically has been producing rum since 1703, making it the oldest producer. I have never found a rum punch that tasted the same as it did in Barbados!
- Reef: Surrounded by a reef, Barbados is an ideal location for snorkeling and swimming. Splurge and book a catamaran tour for the day. Most include lunch and guided snorkeling. It was the best part of our trip!
Best time of year to visit:
Since Barbados is so close to the Equator, it’s warm year-round. Most would probably recommend avoiding hurricane season (August – November), but you can definitely save money traveling then. We visited in October and had very thin crowds.
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($$-$$$) Averaging $150 for a one-bedroom, and around $200 a night for a 2 bedroom home. You can find cheaper but it will be off the beaten path and a bit more rustic.
- Hotel Prices: ($$-$$$) Starting at $120 on the low end, up to $400+ (at this price point breakfast, beach activities and maybe even drinks and all food will be included). Varies based on the season, location, and amenities. South coast tends to be cheaper than the West coast!
- Food Costs: ($$-$$$) Anywhere from $50 to $120+ a day, unless included with your hotel stay. We grabbed small breakfast items, and local beer from a store to save money on some items.
- Transportation: ($-$$) Taxi prices vary but are comparable to the US in cost, government-run buses are a cheap way to get around, just make sure you know where you need to get off!
Book a Hotel in Barbados
Carribbean Alternative: Bahamas
The Northern islands of the Bahamas were hit by a hurricane last year, so they need tourist support more than ever. Book a trip to the southern islands and give the country some help in the rebuilding process. Look into Eleuthera, Long Island, Andros, as well as the other outlying locations.
Europe: Slovakia
Oh beautiful, under the radar Slovakia. Have you ever heard of the High Tatras Mountains? Pictured above, we want to plan a trip to Slovakia and these mountains are one of the main reasons. You’ll get the flavor of Prague or Vienna, but for cheaper!
Reasons to visit Slovakia:
- Affordable: Slovakia is part of Eastern Europe, and if you follow my posts you know I love that area for budget (but still amazing) European travel. Not as cheap as some Southeast Asian countries, but great in terms of Europe.
- Not Swarming with Tourists: The capital city of Bratislava will have tourists, but it’s not nearly as full as Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. It’s a beautiful city located on the Danube River, just a short boat or train ride from other major European locations (like all those mentioned above). Head out into the countryside and you may be the only tourists you see!
- High Tatras Mountains: Picture hotels next to crystal clear lakes and large mountains looming. Reminiscent of the Rockies in Canada, this destination is one to add to your list.
Best time of year to visit:
Depending on what type of recreation you are looking for, Slovakia could be great at any time of year. For site-seeing and hiking in comfortable temperatures, I would visit in May – September. If you’re looking for Christmas markets or snowy mountains and skiing, November – January might be your scene.
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($-$$) Apartments in the city center of Bratislava range from $40 – $100+ a night. Near the High Tatras, if you want a place with a view, prices are closer to $100+, Anywhere else in the countryside starts at $30 USD.
- Hotel Prices: ($-$$) Hotels start at around $70 – $175 on the higher end.
- Food Costs: ($-$$) On average travelers spend $27 a day on food. Many hotels include breakfast as well, so factor that into your food budget.
Transportation: ($-$$) A 72-hour transportation ticket (buses, trams, trolleybuses) costs about $8 USD. Taxis from the airport to the city center range from $15-$20.
Book a Hotel in Slovakia
Europe Alternative: Portugal
Boy, do I love Portugal. Maybe I should have made it the winner for Europe because it is a beautiful and magical place. Lisbon has great food, culture, and vibes like San Francisco (but with way more history). Porto is the home of Port wine and is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever laid eyes on. Visit the Algarve for beaches and seafood. We visited in 2016, and have been reminiscing ever since. The list goes on, just add it to your must-visit list. For real you won’t regret it.
North America: Quebec City, Canada
Since Canada is a rather large country, I narrowed this one down to a specific city. Quebec City has piqued my interest for a few years now. If you want to feel like you’ve been transported to France, without actually flying there – this is your destination.
Reasons to visit Quebec City:
- Equally Beautiful in Winter or Summer: A pretty winter wonderland with sledding, ice skating, and hot chocolate abound, this is a beautiful and fun place to visit for a winter trip (if you love snow). The summer brings festivals, markets, and a chance to visit wineries and farms across the river.
- Cuisine: Quebec has become well known for its food scene. Make sure to book reservations in advance for popular spots. Also one of the top craft beer locations in Canada, you’ll have plenty of chances to indulge at this location.
- European Charm in America: One of North America’s oldest cities founded in 1608, the French modeled the architecture of this city after their homeland. The Quebec Province of Canada is also predominantly French-speaking. Come prepared with a few basic French words to show your respect.
Best time of year to visit:
Summer (June – August) will likely be the most expensive time of year to travel to Quebec City since so much goes on during those months. To save money and enjoy warmer temps, book in late May or early September. Winter is also a fun time to visit, just be prepared with appropriate cold-weather clothing! I recommend November or December right before the Holidays.
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($-$$) Anywhere from $50 – $150 on average.
- Hotel Prices: ($$) On average a hotel stay over the weekend will cost you around $150 a night.
- Food Costs: ($-$$$) This is a foodie spot, so it can vary greatly. On average travelers spend around $30 a day.
Transportation: ($-$$) The city itself is not huge, so you should be able to walk to most places. Keep in mind you may need to traverse some inclines and staircases. If you want to explore the countryside, you will need to rent a car.
Book a Hotel in Quebec City
North America Alternative: Maine, USA
Have you ever heard of the term “leaf-peeping?” I think it’s kind of funny, but I do have a visit to New England on my list to see fall leaves. Maine offers scenic seaside villages, fresh lobster, and down to earth friendly people. If you love a boat tour, they are plentiful in Maine.
South America: Colombia
Colombia is a destination that I’ve heard a lot of fellow travelers mention or visit in the last few months, it is a fast-growing tourist destination. With the current situation of the country much improved after a peace agreement in 2016, it is now a safe country to visit (avoid wandering around big cities late at night or flashing valuables of course). There are vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes to be discovered here. Consider Bogotá, Cartagena, or Guatapé as locations to visit.
Reasons to visit Colombia:
- Coffee & Fresh Food: I think we’ve all heard of Columbian coffee, so why not go to the source to try it? Spend some time in Salento touring coffee farms. Since Colombia has a wide range of altitudes with different climates, they can grow a large variety of crops year-round. Fresh juices are popular, and restaurants focus on fresh homemade food.
- National Parks: Colombia is home to 59 National Parks, all of which work hard to protect wildlife, ecosystems, and culture. These parks also offer many hiking trails if that’s your thing.
- Beaches: You may not think of Columbia first when you think of beaches, but Cartagena is a great beach town to check out! Featuring colonial architecture, and Caribbean-esque beaches, it’s a great spot to consider.
- BONUS: Affordability! (You’ll see below)
Best time of year to visit:
With a location close to the equator, this is somewhere you can visit year-round. Varying altitudes and regions experience different weather, so it’s best to research the area you plan to travel to. December and early January are the holiday season and considered the high season with price increases.
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($-$$) You can find accommodations in Guatapé and Bogotá for $30 USD a night!! Cartagena can be closer to $90 a night.
- Hotel Prices: ($-$$) Averaging around $50 – $130 for interior cities, and $50 – $200 for Cartagena. Be careful here if you want a budget vacation, because it’s easy for costs to escalate with a super nice hotel. 🙂
- Food Costs: ($) The average traveler spends $7 USD, CO$23,700, a DAY on food.
Transportation: ($) The metro or buses are very affordable, costing only about $2 a day if you need them. Uber is also very affordable.
Book a Hotel in Colombia
South America Alternative: Patagonia
Patagonia, located in both Argentina and Chile at the southernmost tip of South America, is one of those bucket list destinations a traveler dreams of. Split by the Andes Mountains, the Chilean side features rainforests and glacial fjords, and the Argentine side features grasslands and deserts.
If you like the experience of a tour, click below! You can search and book tours for any of the locations mentioned in this post.
United Kingdom: Scotland
Scotland, to me, is one of those intriguing fairytale destinations. With tons of history, castles, green landscape and scenic coastline, you can find something for everyone here.
Reasons to visit Scotland:
- Scottish Highlands: Dramatic scenery, small villages and lochs are the highlights of the Highlands. A driving tour is needed to really do this region justice.
- Castles & History: Who doesn’t love a good castle? Especially ones that have been a bit forgotten where you can wander freely.
- Public Museums are Free: Take advantage of this one! Locations in Edinburgh like the National Museum of Scotland, St. Giles Cathedral, and the Royal Botanical Garden all have free entry.
Best time of year to visit:
Budget Range:
- Airbnb Prices: ($$) Not the cheapest destination on our list, an airbnb will run you around $80 – $150 a night.
- Hotel Prices: ($$-$$$) From around $100 – $200+ a night for an average hotel.
- Food Costs: ($$-$$$) Most visitors spent around $30 USD, 22 GBP, a day on food on the conservative side. A three course mid-range meal will run you around $25/person.
Transportation: ($$) The most cost effective mode of transportation is a city bus, day passes are just 4 GPB, $5 USD. Taxis are expensive, so try to avoid using them to get around.
Book a Hotel in Scotland
U.K. Alternative: Rebulic of Ireland
Although I am traveling here for the first time in 2020, this one didn’t make my number one spot because I feel like a lot of people already have it on their list! (Do you?)
I’m looking forward to tasting Guinness and Irish Whiskey, seeing Trinity College and Dublin Castle, and trying Irish food! Ireland also offers a beautiful countryside with villages, cliffs, and castles to discover (we’ll be doing a bit of that too!).
Are you inspired to plan your travel destinations for 2020 now? Let me know in the comments below!
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