The world has so much to offer and staying in one place all your life is limiting yourself from learning and exploring every wonder it has to offer. Each country is different from the other like no two people are the same. Every place will teach you something else that will make you know more about yourself as you discover other cultures and histories. Traveling heals the soul and energizes the body so make sure you do it as often as possible and it is always better when you do it with someone special. But, don’t be afraid to go alone, for it is a different kind of adventure where you open yourself for more possibilities. And if you still have no idea where to go next year, make sure to read our list of the best countries to visit in 2020.
1. Singapore
One of the best countries to visit in Asia, Singapore is known for being the technological hub of the continent. Among its unique features - aside from its being an island - are its multicultural population, tropical climate, and its effort to lessen its carbon footprints. One of the top attractions here is its City Hall that features 18 Corinthian columns. Another is Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown which has a red-and-gold color palette and is known to house one of the teeth of Buddha. Other must-visits in the area include Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, Clarke Quay, and more.
2. India
One of the countries visited by Elizabeth Gilbert in her book “Eat, Pray, Love,” India is the seventh largest county in terms of area and the second most populated, next to China, in the whole world. This country is well-known for its cuisine that uses many flavors and spices. It also has a rich and vivid history, which you can see in its many historical sites, museums, and temples. One of the most iconic attractions here, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the Taj Mahal, which is a mausoleum built for the wife of Shah Jahan, who died in 1631 because of childbirth. Other attractions you shouldn’t miss while you are in India include the Red Fort in New Delhi, the Pink City in Jaipur, and Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi.
3. Cambodia
Another fascinating country in Asia, Cambodia is a great example of harmony between the ancient and modern world, which you can see in its many structures, attractions, cuisine, and culture. The country is well-known for the Angkor Wat temple, which is a complex of stone Hindu temples built during the Khmer Empire. It is also famous for its most captivating sunrise. Also, Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh is one of the most sought-after locations for its diverse attractions, including the Art Deco Central Market, the National Museum with its historical and archaeological displays, and the impressive Royal Palace.
4. Fiji
A country located in the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago composed of 300 islands, making it a must-visit summer destination. It is famous for its hilly landscapes, palm-dotted beaches, and coral reefs with crystal clear inlets. Most of the country’s population thrive in its two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Also, in Viti Levu, you’ll find Suva, the capital of Fiji, which features striking British colonial architecture. And if you’re into arts and history, you’ll need to drop by Fiji Museum, which is in the Victorian-era-styled Thurston Gardens, and see its ethnographic collections.
5. Thailand
Known for its mouthwatering and very diverse cuisine, Thailand is another country in Southeast Asia that features tropical beaches, grand palaces, glittering temples featuring images of Buddha, and enthralling martial arts. Pattaya is one of the most visited summer destinations in the country. It is a city poised on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast that is popular for its nightlife and beaches lined with resorts and bars. Its capital, Bangkok, is a futuristic cityscape that is the opposite of the peaceful canal-side neighborhoods next to it. Also, you’ll find here the historic temples of Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Emerald Buddha Temple.
6. France
Featuring captivating medieval cities, beautiful mountainous villages, and pristine Mediterranean beaches, France is a gorgeous country in Western Europe. Its capital is the famous Paris where you’ll find the iconic Eiffel Tower. But aside from the tower, it is also home to numerous fashion houses, cute cafes, and the Louvre Museum, which is the largest museum in the world. Aside from the attractions, another thing you shouldn’t miss here is its cuisine. Don’t go home without trying their crepes, souffles, quiche, and more.
7. Italy
The first city Elizabeth Gilbert visited in the book “Eat, Pray, love” to learn about the art of pleasure, Italy - where the famous Italian phrase “la dolce vita” or the sweet life originates - is the perfect place to be when you want to forget the worries of the world and just be. The country is composed of many incredible cities, each with a different charm, just like Rome, where you can find the Vatican, which is the seat of Catholicism. Also, there is Milan, the fashion capital of the country, Venice, the romantic city of canals, and Florence and its Renaissance art scene. Additionally, the country is also popular because of its cuisine, including pizza and pasta.
8. Greece
Located in Southeastern Europe, Greece, also known as the origin of Western civilization, was a very influential country during ancient times. You can still see its grandeur up to this time, through its many relics as well as historical and archaeological sites like the Acropolis citadel in Athens. Also, Greece features thousands of islands at the Aegean and Ionian seas, where you can find the famous beaches of Santorini, a well-known honeymoon destination, and Mykonos, where you’ll find party resorts and where the youths gather every summer.
9. Netherlands
One of the most beautiful countries in the world, the Netherlands, is famous for its beautiful flat landscape of waterways, stunning fields of tulips, scenic windmills, and bike trails. Its capital, Amsterdam, is a liberal city that is well-known for its artistic culture, intricate canal system, and narrow houses that feature gabled facades. It also has become so popular because of the many museums you’ll find here, including the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Stedelijk.
10. Scotland
A country in the United Kingdom, Scotland, is known to be the inventor of many things, including kilts, bagpipes, and tartans. One of the most-visited attractions here is the Castle of Edinburgh, located atop a plug of a dormant volcano, which is considered the most famous monument in Scotland. The castle features bronze sculptures and a wondrous view of the city of Edinburgh, including its many landmarks like Princes Street and the Royal Mile. Other tourist destinations here include the Isle of Skye, Stirling Castle, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow.
11. Brazil
Known for the Amazon Rainforest and River, Brazil is the largest country in South America as well as in Latin America, giving you endless attractions to explore, from culture hubs to untouched beaches, vibrant art scene, and historical sites. One of the most sought-after tourist destinations here is the Inhotim, an open-air museum, located in a 5,000-acre (2,023.4 hectares) property that features a botanical garden landscape that is designed by Roberto Burle Marx. The gallery contains remarkable sculptures and exquisite art pavilions by both local and international artists. Other must-visits here are the city of Sao Paolo for nightlife, Fernando de Noronha for crystal-clear beaches, Ouro Preto for history and well-preserved architecture, and many more.
12. Costa Rica
Located in Central America, with coastlines on the Pacific and Carribean, Costa Rica offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing and nature adventures because of its rugged and rainforested landscapes. The attractions here are diverse, with its capital, San Jose, featuring many cultural institutions like the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and there’s also the Catalinas Islands, where the best scuba diving spots can be found. Other attractions that will surely make your vacation one for the books include Rainmaker Aerial Walkway, Poás Volcano National Park, Cano Island Biological Reserve, and more.
13. Peru
If you’re a history enthusiast and want to see the things you only read in history books, then going to Peru is a must. It is a South American country that is popular for Machu Picchu, which is located at the Andes Mountains. This ancient Incan city was built in the 15th-century that features complex dry-stone walls and fascinating buildings that are said to be connected with astronomical alignments. Additionally, the country is boasting with many archaeological sites as well as cultural attractions, including the Inca Trail and the Sacred Valley.
14. Chile
Another charming country in South America, Chile has various attractions waiting for you starting from its rich wildlife, pristine beaches, mountains, nature parks, up to stunning architecture and colorful history. If you like animals, there’s no better place to visit than the Isla Magdalena. You’ll find here hundreds of penguins walking around or gathered together like they are planning for something. Another tourist site here is the beautiful Cuevas de Mármol, or Marble Cave, which is concealed beneath a peninsula in Lago Carrera General. It is a stunning work of nature, wherein the color of the waters bounce light onto the roof of the cave, giving a striking reflection that is unparalleled in the world.
15. Argentina
Are you a lover of adventure and nature? If so, visiting Argentina must be in your bucket list. It is a South American country that features diverse geographical landscape and various activities for nature lovers and travelers. One of the famous things to do here for nature junkies is hiking to the Fitz Roy, a mountain that is surrounded by glacial lakes. It is also a site that will surely be loved by photographers because of its picturesque sceneries. Additionally, you shouldn’t miss visiting the Valdés Peninsula, Talampaya National Park, Valle de la Luna, etc.
16. Bermuda
A beautiful British island, located at the North Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is one extraordinary vacation location, showcasing both American and British culture, which is very evident in its capital, Hamilton. A must-visit attraction in its capital is the area along the harbor, Front Street, which features pastel-colored colonial structures as well as high-end shops. Another is the stunning stone Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity that features a tower where you’ll see a spectacular view of the city upon climbing. Moreover, there are lots of interesting attractions you must go to here, including the National Museum of Bermuda and the Royal Naval Dockyard complex.
17. Canada
A famous producer of Maple Syrup, Canada is another must-visit country not only for its many incredible cities but also because it is home to the kindest and politest people in the world. Toronto, one of its cities, can tour you around the world with its cultural attractions such as Koreatown, Little India, and Greektown. And if you’re short on budget to visit Europe, you should see Quebec City. One of its main highlights is the Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features 17th- and 18th-century structures.
18. Guatemala
Featuring marvelous volcanoes, lush rainforests, and enchanting Mayan sites, Guatemala is a Central American country located south of Mexico. Its capital is Guatemala City which has many surprises up its sleeves waiting to be explored. You’ll find here the National Palace of Culture, also known as “Palacio Verde,” which is one of the most important buildings in the country and also serves as the headquarters for the president of Guatemala. Another famous sight is the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology that contains exhibits focusing on the conservation of the country’s ethnological and archaeological artifacts.
19. Iceland
If the cold never bothers you, then Iceland is a great vacation destination in Europe. This Nordic island country features distinct landscapes, including geysers, volcanoes, lava fields, and hot springs. And if you want to see up close its huge glaciers, then you shouldn’t miss dropping by Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks. Its capital Reykjavik is powered by geothermal energy and home to museums featuring the Vikings’ history in the country. Also, most of its population lives in the capital.
20. South Africa
A lot of people dream of visiting this nature paradise, hoping to learn more about nature and get up close and personal with its rich wildlife. South Africa features different landscapes, starting from safaris up to beaches, lagoons, and forests. One of its highlights is Kruger National Park, which is an inland safari that is home to many wildlife, including the big five: lion, elephant, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. And if you’re after its beaches, you can always count on Western Cape, with its numerous pristine beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
Wander to wonder
Many people, nowadays, invest in travel more than materials things - which is good, because memories are forever just like diamonds. It doesn’t only give you the chance to learn about other cultures and explore different places, but it also lets you learn more about yourself. So, don’t be afraid to travel, and before doing so, make sure to check out our list of the best countries to visit in 2020 as your guide to exploring the world.
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