There is not any scarcity of fascinating locations to go to in 2024. I do know this as a result of I am on the street 365 days a 12 months, and in 2023, I traveled to some locations that I can personally suggest.
I do not parachute into these locations for just a few days with my reporter’s pocket book. I spent a number of weeks in virtually each metropolis on my record. I shopped on the markets, explored the town, and made associates with the locals. I additionally generally took my college-age youngsters on adventures.
First, here is the primary half of my record of the 12 finest locations to see in 2024, together with one of the best time to go to them.
January: Antarctica
You will need to sail to Antarctica throughout the southern hemisphere summer time. Temperatures are comparatively delicate and the usually stormy Drake Passage is calmer. I flew to Ushuaia, Argentina, and boarded Hurtigruten Expeditions’ MS Fridtjof Nansen for a 10-day cruise to Antarctica in late December, arriving on the White Continent simply earlier than the New Yr. It was spectacular. Though it might appear a bit dangerous, you should not miss a stroll on the ice to see the penguins. When you’re actually courageous, strive polar immersion in icy waters. Sadly, we missed the chance to dive in Antarctica as a result of the glacier was calving, inflicting giant sheets of ice to crash into the water. Go see it earlier than it is gone.
February: Doha, Qatar
Qatar is likely one of the most underrated locations on this planet. The climate in late winter is nearly good: heat days and funky nights. My children and I hung out wandering across the world-famous Souk Waqif, a busy market the place you should purchase virtually something, however the primary exercise appears to be consuming espresso and smoking vanilla-scented shisha (we tried the espresso, however skipped the shisha) . ). Highlights of our go to included a day on the Nationwide Museum of Qatar, which explains the place this glittering metropolis got here from, and a visit to the desert to see the monoliths by American sculptor Richard Serra.
March: Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch, on the South Island of New Zealand, looks as if a unique planet. March is the start of autumn within the southern hemisphere, however even then, the hills are nonetheless a shiny shade of inexperienced. You will acknowledge this place if you happen to’ve ever seen one of many Lord of the Rings films, however there’s a lot extra to it than simply the wonderful film setting. Christchurch is a pleasant metropolis with nice cafes (my favourite was Espresso Studio by Fushoken) and nice price range eating choices. I spent days strolling round Hagley Park within the metropolis middle and admiring the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Be sure you get out of the town to hike within the mountains. You do not have to like Center Earth to benefit from the South Island of New Zealand.
April: Kyoto, Japan
If you can also make it to Kyoto in April, it is best to. Cherry timber bloom in mid-March and often attain their peak in early April. However even if you happen to fail Sakura season, you actually need to see this place. The traditional Japanese capital is filled with historic temples and shrines. That is additionally the place to go to discover ways to make sushi from the artisans at Kyoto Sushimaking or, if you happen to’re having bother adjusting to the brand new time zone, discover a place that serves genuine ramen. My children and I saved coming again to Kyoto Engine Ramen, tucked away in a slender alley and all the time filled with jet-lagged expats.
Might: Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam was the most important shock throughout my 2023 travels. I spent a protracted weekend in Hoi An, within the central a part of the nation, and I am nonetheless processing the pure great thing about the place, with its steep inexperienced mountains and postcard-perfect seashores. Hoi An is an historic metropolis filled with temples and a wealthy historical past of assorted cultural influences, together with Chinese language and French. You should definitely go right down to the market and out to the Thu Bon River at nightfall, when the boats sail down the river with their colourful lanterns. And take a look at the pho for dinner at Anantara Hoi An Resort.
June: Fukuoka, Japan
If you’re on the lookout for one thing totally different in Japan, outdoors of Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo, it is best to go to Fukuoka. It’s definitely probably the most welcoming of the Japanese cities I visited. When you make this a second cease in Japan, I like to recommend getting there through the Shinkansen (bullet prepare), which is a marvel of engineering. Fukuoka additionally has glorious purchasing. We stocked up on inexperienced tea earlier than returning to the USA. When you can take the hydrofoil to Iki Island, it is value it. Do not miss dinner at Iki Retreat if you happen to go.
Subsequent week: Locations in South America, Asia and the USA so as to add to your 2024 itinerary.
Christopher Elliott is an writer, shopper advocate and journalist. He based Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit group that helps resolve shopper issues. he publishes Elliott Confidentiala journey publication and the Elliott Report, a customer support information web site. When you need assistance with a shopper downside, you’ll be able to attain it right here or ship an electronic mail to chris@elliott.org.