It never hurts to dream a little. Therefore, I am compiling ten scenic destinations that will revive your life to overcome this phase of the pandemic. Hopefully, this phase is getting over, and we can finally pack our bags and just travel.
With constant reminders about following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks to fight Covid-19, travelling seems like the last thing on our minds right now.
However, no pandemic can rob us of the yearning to reach new regions, explore stunning locales and visit the countryside.
Assam, India
Assam is closer to the Himalayas than the Taj Mahal, which keeps this part of India decidedly off-the-beaten-track.
Ecotourism is the main reason to visit, with wild animals a surprising draw. You can search for an Indian one-horned rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park or explore the evergreen forest at the Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary.
The same fertile ground that makes it a good home for wildlife also makes the region ideal for agriculture. Add a tea plantation to your stay. The estates are beautiful and can be a great way to enjoy some of the smaller villages in northeast India.
Ayutthaya, Thailand
One thing’s for sure: no one in the West learns about Ayutthaya in history class, even though it was the largest city in the world in 1700. Most of today’s visitors go to see earlier history, though. The ruins at Ayutthaya Historical Park date back to 1350.
The Park is expansive and from a different period and culture than renowned Angkor Wat, so don’t write it off before you go.
Trains from Bangkok frequently leave to make the 90-minute trip to Ayutthaya. Most visitors arrive on a day trip but staying the night is even better.
You’ll get to see the temples in the early morning and late afternoon when they’re at their quietest. Sunset, in particular, is beautiful and a great reason not to leave too early.
Bhutan
A lack of travel over the last year has put the spotlight on sustainable tourism as destinations reopen.
One country that’s gotten this right for years is Bhutan, where hiring a guide is mandatory to ensure that travellers treat locals, communities and natural or cultural sights with respect. They strive to keep tourism “high yield, low impact.”
While having a guide is suitable for the Bhutanese, it’s also good for the traveller. Your guide will take care of logistical arrangements, which is especially important in a world where travel restrictions are constantly changing.
They’ll also tell you stories, add context and help you connect with locals along the way for a more meaningful experience.
Canadian High Arctic
Antarctica tends to get all the attention, but you’ll enjoy many of the same facets if you head to the other pole: an exclusive expedition to untouched nature, breath-taking scenery and astounding wildlife.
The High Canadian Arctic also provides a glimpse into Inuit culture and history.
Opting for the Arctic can also be much more accessible. Group packages often meet in Toronto instead of Patagonia, so flying is easy.
Seasickness is less of a factor on cruises, and itineraries start at only a week for travellers pressed for time. Prices are lower, too, despite offering an unforgettable experience.
Ghana
Even for frequent travellers, West Africa can feel intimidating, but Ghana has a stable government and friendly, welcoming locals. Bustling markets, Atlantic beaches and nightlife can keep you busy for days before you head to Ghana’s rainforest or savannah safaris.
No trip to Ghana would be complete without a visit to the Cape Coast and acknowledgement of its position as a significant hub in the slave trade. Learning about this part of history shows how far we’ve come as a world—and reminds us how far we still have to go.
Kenya
Choosing a country for safari can be overwhelming; Milos is best known for the stark white Saraki Niko Beach, but the Catacombs of Milos and Kleftiko Caves are equally worthwhile.
And, like all Greek isles, don’t underestimate how much time you’ll want for swimming, sunbathing, wining, dining and chasing the sunset.
Milos, Greece
The Greek isles will always be beloved by travellers, but do yourself a favour and skip the most-heavily visited islands this year. While not “undiscovered,” Milos is less crowded than other islands, and cruise ships rarely stop here.
Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is a dream place for food lovers. There are Michelin-star restaurants, hole-in-the-wall eateries and street food 24 hours a day, each with delicious delicacies to offer.
Start your day with pineapple cakes and oolong tea and work toward beef noodle soup and black pepper buns, or head into one of the shrimping bars on Zhìshàn Road, where you catch your dinner.
Of course, you have to do something other than eating, and Taipei excels at that, too. Hit up the city museums and temples, make some shopping or day trip to Beitou for hot springs and hiking.
Walt Disney World, Florida
Disney’s 50th-anniversary festivities began October 1, 2021, will last 18 months, giving plenty of time to join the party. Specific celebrations haven’t been announced yet, but you can expect magical entertainment, specially-themed souvenirs and treats and new park decor.
Waiting until 2022 for the initial crowds to lessen may be in your favour, especially since some favourite festivities like fireworks and parades are on hold.
Alta, Norway
Famous as the “aurora borealis city”, Alta offers conditions just right for northern lights hunting. Activity is high and, unlike other Scandinavian destinations, it provides a disproportionate number of clear nights for viewing.
There are even “arctic dome” hotels (high-end glamping tents with transparent walls) that are friendlier on your Waller than glass igloos in other locales.
When you’re this far north, aurora season is longer than you might expect, stretching from September through March.
Take things in slowly by cycling past beaches, lighthouses and fishing villages—or head inland for wineries, castles and farmers’ markets.
