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Visit GoodPlace

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8-Day Private Mountain Bike Tour from Arnoldstein to Piran

Self-Guided Bike Tour in Slovenia

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Visit GoodPlace - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

A Responsible Boutique Tour Operator

Creating Life Stories, Naturally .

A cycling and outdoor tour operator, specialised in destinations that include a wealth of natural beauty, vibrant history, rich culture and the great outdoors.

We develop our tours working with nature, being friendly to travelers and locals at the same time.

Browse tours Get in touch

Our story did not start with the establishment of the company in 2015 but 5 years earlier when the Institute Factory of Sustainable Tourism GoodPlace was born. This organization now plays an important role in the development of sustainable tourism in Slovenia and globally.

Visit GoodPlace is therefore just a continuation of our mission. It is a place where we bring our knowledge and sustainable tourism products to life.

Our mission

Our mission is to create authentic and unique experiences for our guests while supporting responsible travel and nature preservation.

Sustainability policy

We aim to minimize negative effects on the natural and social environment and maximize benefits to local businesses.

See sustainability policy

We believe in a green future .

Jan klavora ceo, founder, jana apih sustainable tourism expert, founder, katja defrančeski coo, founder, matic klanjšček cartography expert and cycling guide, founder, andrej bandelj tour designer, cartographer, guide, katja škerjanc customer support, monja ferčec marketing, matevž hribar content creator, van driver, jani golob bike fleet administrator, van driver.

Sara Seljak Customer support

Janja Vidic Customer support

“Today’s tourism trend always uses the word ‘authenticity,’ but using the word isn’t enough. For behavior to be real, locals should believe it’s right for their community. If visitors enjoy it, great, but not as the first concern.” - Jan Klavora for Bicycling Magazine

“In Slovenia, just bringing in tourists without a sustainability strategy is worse than having no tourists. Our hope for Bike Slovenia Green is that destinations here, and elsewhere in the world, realize you can be responsible and popular. The larger goal is to show responsibility and tourism are the same.” - Jana Apih for Bicycling Magazine

Top quality service

Quality over quantity. Ask our guests.

We did the trans slovenia 01 with 14 guys from belgium.

It was a wonderful experience. We are impressed by the beautiful country and the openness of the people. Our guide Andrej was very pleasant. It was nice that he knew a lot about the history of the country. He is also flexible and pleasant to deal with. We rent hardtail, fully and e-bikes. They were all from a very good quality. Congratulations to Good-place who has made this trip work so well!

Jan, Belgium See source

Wonderful cycle tour experience.

My friend and I recently did the self-guided 8 day (6 of them cycling) tour of the Adriatic Coast and Istria Peninsula. We hired ebikes and they and the other equipment, panniers etc were of a very high quality. The organization of the tour was first class. Matic and Katja were knowledgeable and helpful and if there was an issue they responded and sorted things very quickly. The route planning, hotels and food were great. We highly recommend Visit Good Place. We recommend that rather than go through another travel agency you contact them directly. Their English is excellent.

Jane, New Zealand See source

Outstanding / faultess.

We recently cycled Istria to the Adriatic self guided for one week. From our first contact with the company their service and response was outstanding. And the whole trip was exactly as promised. This is our 14th cycling tour around the world and this is one of the very best. Great bikes, great accommodation, fabulous routes. A very thorough, reliable and professional company. We hope to cycle with you again and wish more cycle companies were of your very high standard. Thank you Katja and all the Visit Good Place team

Sophie, Australia See source

Amazing family bike trip.

We traveled for a week visiting beautiful places on the Italian coast, Slovenia and Croatia. Our guide and all the support team were excellent! It was fun to cycle along the parenzana (former railway) with diverse kinds of terrains. Wonderful food, charming hotels. We highly recommended this trip! “Istria to the Adriatic”

Ivettec, Mexico See source

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town, farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor . Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The " World's Most Magical Celebration " — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

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There are so many online review platforms out there—Google, Tripadvisor, Yelp. When I’m planning a trip and looking into hotels and activities, which one should I trust the most? —After Good Advice

Online, everyone has an opinion. Even seasoned travelers can find themselves easily led down the rabbit hole of online review platforms and come out overwhelmed.

A friend of mine was recently considering vacationing in Hawaii and interested in the Hana-Maui Resort. Five-star reviews on Tripadvisor tout the property as a 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winner, with comments highlighting it as “Exceptional” and a “Bungalow in Paradise,” though others cautioned, “Not Quite as Expected” and “Don’t Stay Here.”

When she looked further into the critiques, she discovered that the negative reviews complained of the lack of air-conditioning and TVs in rooms (who goes to Maui to watch TV?) and of wind and rain during their stays—the latter something no hotel could remedy. Knowing I live part-time on Maui, she reached out to see if I had any first-hand intel. The handful of negative comments on varying review sites gave her pause.

I believe nothing compares to word-of-mouth recommendations, particularly from someone who knows you and your travel tastes. My friend relayed that she and her husband were planning to use points to stay at a trio of Hyatt properties on Maui—in addition to the Hana-Maui Resort, they’d booked the Andaz in Wailea, and Hyatt Regency near Lahaina, both tony, amenity-laden areas on the south and west coasts, respectively.

The town of Hana, on the eastern side of the island, is the exact opposite: remote, undeveloped, sleepy. I knew my friend and her husband preferred the ocean to hiking, and they loved restaurants and nightlife. While I thought the Hana-Maui Resort was heaven, I knew they’d be bored to death and said as much.

“We’re not perfect, but we are constantly working to stay one step ahead of the fraudsters,” says Brian Hoyt, a spokesperson at Tripadvisor.

Trust plays a huge role in our travel decisions. When a friend who shares your tastes posts rave reviews about a hotel or restaurant on their Facebook page, you’re more likely to check it out. When we don’t have personal recommendations to go off, we tend to turn to review sites to see what others thought of it.

Online reviews can be a great tool for anyone planning trips, as well as for businesses looking to drum up interest from prospective adventure seekers. But how do you know which reviews and which platforms to trust?

Where to Find Reliable Reviews

For starters: no one site can (or should) be considered the only option. Because users are providing the information, the sites can inadvertently post misinformation, says Nick Ewen, director of content at The Points Guy, a travel-resource site that reaches over seven million people each month. It’s best to use multiple sites, as casting a wide net allows for a wide variety of perspectives.

Based on my interviews with dozens of travelers and industry veterans, including agents, hotel owners, and tour operators, Google, Tripadvisor, Trustpilot, and Yelp have the most reliable user-generated content. These companies have policies in place to ensure the trustworthiness of the reviews that appear and allow users to dispute content or to click icons within the post to flag suspicions, such as a review that’s promotional or not based on a genuine experience.

Tripadvisor , the world’s largest travel-guidance platform with more than one billion total reviews, has an investigations team of experts specializing in network forensics and fraud detection to help spot suspicious reviews. Shady posts often include review boosting, where a business owner asks someone connected to their company to sing their praises; review vandalism, in which someone tries to slander a business with negative reviews; or review optimization, which occurs when companies are paid to falsify reviews on a business’s behalf.

“We’re not perfect, but we are constantly working to stay one step ahead of the fraudsters,” says Brian Hoyt, a spokesperson at Tripadvisor. Last year, 1.3 million reviews were identified as fake and removed from the platform, and 72 percent were caught before being posted, he says.

Yelp also maintains a team of moderators who keep a hawkish eye out for companies that might be engaging in compensated or incentivized review behavior, which is strictly prohibited. In 2022, Yelp closed more than 77,400 user accounts for violating such policies. Both Google and Trustpilot, too, use software to automatically screen for fake reviews or promotional content.

Tips for Navigating Travel-Review Platforms

Even when you feel solid about a site, it doesn’t mean you’re immune to the barrage of opinions, good and bad. Here’s how to filter what you’re finding.

1. Consider When the Content Was Posted

The more recent the review, the more relevant an experience might be, but older reviews can paint a picture of more consistent experiences had by travelers over time. If reviews suddenly go from positive to less than glowing, consider whether the hotel, restaurant, or tour operator might be under new ownership. If someone is complaining about limited things to do at a resort while visiting in the off-season, that won’t apply if you’re planning to visit during peak periods, says Ewen. And remember: post-pandemic, the service industry continues to lack sufficient personnel; as a result, you might see more negative reviews than positive ones on this front.

2. Read Beyond the Stars

Everyone has different travel preferences, so take time to read the actual review closely, whether it’s a five- or one-star rating, says Ewen. “Someone might give an all-inclusive resort a one-star review because they were traveling for their honeymoon and couldn’t stand all of the families,” he says. “That’s hardly a negative if you’re traveling with your kids.”

3. Look for Consistency

Gather insight across review platforms to look for trends. If a hotel boasts high marks on multiple sites, chances are the reviews are accurate and it’s great. If it has mixed ratings, however, you may want to reconsider. Similarly, when looking at tour operators that run trips in multiple destinations, make sure you’re seeing positive reviews in all of those places but specifically where you’re headed. If, for example, its experiences in California are five-star but those in Utah and Colorado have been rated as mediocre, you might want to do more research or even call the outfitter and enquire about the inconsistency.

4. Use Search Filters to Save Time

As noted, first make sure you’re sorting remarks by most recent. Then use any other filters to zero in on things like the time of year you’re visiting (Tripadvisor has this functionality), specific mentions of amenities (Google has this), or even specific keywords you want to search, such as surfing or hiking (both Tripadvisor and Google offer this), recommends Ewen. With restaurants and hotels, he typically starts a search with Google, as it provides both the location and star rating together.

5. Take Bad Reviews with a Grain of Salt

You can’t please everyone. When I looked for comments about Yellowstone National Park, one of America’s most visited destinations, on Google Reviews visitors lamented, “There was no service and no way to update my Instagram” and “They don’t even let you touch the geysers, and there’s only black and grizzly bears no panda.” Before you write off an experience because of some bad reviews, take the time to actually read the criticism and decide whether it’s warranted. If there’s one bad review but 20 great ones, likely someone had a bad day.

It’s also worth noting whether anyone from the company responded to a negative post. “A bad review is a great opportunity to showcase your true colors,” says Melanie Fisher, an Oregon-based travel agent who also rents a property on Airbnb. “As the business owner, how you respond is very important. If you come across as rude and condescending, you are just confirming the bad review was deserving. Instead, if you respond, explaining how you couldn’t meet the customer’s needs—unsafe, unrealistic, never agreed upon, natural disaster—and you did everything in your power to make it right, others will understand more about you and your business—and in most cases respect the business more.”

Go Beyond the Reviews for Information

Tripadvisor’s forums and journalist-reported travel stories , on topics like family-friendly Greek islands and epic road trips in Ireland, can offer helpful vacation tips and trip inspiration. And take a gander at traveler- or diner-submitted photos. Yelp’s Ask the Community feature allows users to post queries for Yelpers to weigh in on, like how much time you should budget for a visit to New York City’s Museum of Natural History (at minimum four hours).

When looking for activities, Ewen’s first stop is often the website of the local tourism board. “While these marketing organizations have a vested interest in promoting the destination, they also have no incentive to send you on a bad tour, because that’s a loss for the destination itself,” he says. “Virtually every tour or activity I have booked in this way has been positive.”

Magazines, both print and digital (like Outside ), are another great source to legitimize any opinions you read on user-generated review sites. Additionally, the social-media feed of a company can provide insight. Have travelers left positive comments on a hotel or tour operator’s Instagram or Facebook feed? Has that company made an effort to interact with customers? Finally, if you’re mid-trip and still looking for recommendations, chat up the locals. I’ve discovered some of my most memorable meals and hikes based on tips from a bartender.

Have a question of your own? Drop us a line at [email protected] .  

Outside correspondent Jen Murphy is one of the most well-traveled people we know, and we’ve long relied on her expert advice about awesome adventures and how to get there in a sane way.

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The 9 most spectacular places to visit in Belize

Jan 10, 2024 • 9 min read

From Ambergris Caye to the Hummingbird Highway, here are the best places to go in Belize © Michael Hanson / Getty Images

Supported by

If you're in search of natural wonders from treetops to shore, incredible culture and a warm welcome, Belize needs to be on your travel to-do list.

There's great food, incredible nature and wildlife, and vibrant villages, each with its own distinct personality.

And because of the country’s small size and how easy it is to navigate , there’s no need to decide between the beach and the rainforests, the reefs or the caves, the parties or the peace. In Belize, you can have it all. These are the nine places you can't afford to miss when you get there.

1. Ambergris Caye

Belize's unmissable destination

Ambergris Caye is the top place to go for visitors to Belize and the vibrant town of San Pedro is the beating heart of this unique island. This colorful caye has  hotels ranging from budget to luxe and classic Caribbean activities like snorkeling and sailing. Many of Belize’s best restaurants can be found here, as well as excellent nightlife  and shopping.

Just about every kind of traveler comes to Ambergris Caye and it’s a great hub from which to experience Belize’s water-based activities.

While you can make day trips to Maya ruins and the jungle from here, it’s advisable to switch to an inland destination for those – otherwise, you will spend a lot of time traveling.

Must-see spots include driving a golf cart up to Secret Beach, eating fry jacks for breakfast at The Fry Jack House , and grabbing a glass of rum at Havana Cigars .

As for things to do, snorkeling at  Hol Chan Marine Reserve  is one of the most popular activities in the country, but heading up north to Mexico Rocks can provide an equally fish-filled experience with fewer crowds.

Planning tip:  Ambergris Caye has a small airport that’s only a 15-minute flight from Belize’s international airport and it’s easy to rent a golf cart – the island’s quintessential mode of transportation – from there.

2. San Ignacio

Best hub for outdoor adventures

Adventure abounds in San Ignacio , a large town on Belize’s western border that embodies the country's Central American side, trading beaches for waterfalls and snorkeling for cave exploration. Much of Belize’s jungles and land-based wildlife can be found around here.

There are also many Maya ruins nearby, such as  Xunantunich and  Cahal Pech , as well as the famous ATM cave. San Ignacio makes an excellent starting point for excursions, including to other spots down the coast.

The bar and restaurant scene is on the rise and there is plenty to enjoy in the area. Head to Guava Limb Cafe for wood-fired pizza, and don’t miss the breakfast fry jacks at Pop’s Restaurant .

The overall vibe of the town feels very local, with hotels the only spot where tourists stand out among the crowd, making the bars fun for anyone craving connection with Belizeans.

Check out Soul Project below  Old House Hostel on Wednesday and Friday nights to see local musicians and artists in action. 

For those craving jungle immersion, book a stay at Chaa Creek to experience the luxurious side of nature, or go further into the wilderness at Black Rock Lodge , where birders feel right at home.

Planning tip:  San Ignacio is the best starting point for travelers looking to cross the border into Guatemala to explore Tikal or continue their travels in Central America.

3. Punta Gorda

Best place for adventures away from the tourist crowds

Punta Gorda is the largest village near Belize’s southern border, a spot largely off the typical tourist track. It’s where the country’s densest jungles are found, as well as a concentrated Maya community.

This is a popular spot for adventure travelers, those who have already been to other parts of Belize, and visitors who prefer to avoid the crowds. Though it’s on the water, it’s not too beachy, so keep yourself busy with excursions out to nearby cayes or visit some of the Maya ruins nearby. 

The town of Punta Gorda has a few restaurants and bars, as well as places to stay. Copal Tree Lodge is a favorite among visitors looking for a little luxury, with large rooms built into the hillside and an open restaurant area that’s often visited by howler monkeys in the morning.

There’s also a rum distillery onsite – don’t miss a chance to see how Copalli Rum gets made.

4. Placencia

Best place in Belize for beaches

The coast of Southern Belize feels like what Ambergris Caye was like before Belize became a major tourism destination, but today Placencia gets the honor of being one of the country’s top beach destinations .

This former fishing village has transformed into an upscale retreat with beach bars, top restaurants, and high-end resorts.

Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn is one of the most desirable spots to stay, with design, decor, and a wine selection straight from the filmmaker’s imagination. Three Iguanas is an excellent, affordable accommodation option that’s right in town. 

Popular excursions include taking a boat ride out to the Silk Cayes or booking an inland trip with DTOURZ to explore the nearby Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary  – it even offers overnight trips to maximize the chances of seeing the nocturnal jaguar.

In town, visitors enjoy shopping along the boardwalk, relaxing on the sandy beach, and cooling down with a scoop of gelato from the Italian-owned Tutti Frutti . 

5. Ray Caye

Best private island experience

There are hundreds of islands off Belize’s coasts to choose from and Ray Caye is one of the best. The Raye Caye resort  is developed, has modern, clean lodging and an incredible restaurant.

Visitors can either choose to stay overnight or visit for the day, though overnight guests will have access to the entire island while day guests are restricted to certain areas.

It’s worth booking a few days at Ray Caye for travelers who want to get a sense of what it’s like to live on a Caribbean island – it ensures being closer to the reef than staying on shore.

It's very relaxed here, and you can happily hang around the island all day taking soothing soaks in the warm water. If you're in search of an adventure, though, there are excursions and activities to choose from, including sailing trips and snorkeling along the island's reef.

Planning tip: Look out for yoga weekend getaways, when local yoga teacher Brice Dial takes over Ray Caye with a group for a few days of relaxation and mindfulness.

6. Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Best spot for nature lovers

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is an area in Cayo near San Ignacio with lots of options for those seeking experiences in nature.

Though it doesn’t have the towering canopies of a rainforest, this unique ecosystem is still home to plenty of species of wildlife, including cougars, jaguars, acorn woodpeckers, eastern bluebirds and small critters of all kinds.

One of the best hotels in the area is another one of Francis Ford Coppola’s properties, Blancaneaux Lodge . This regal resort is perched above a river, though the onsite pool is a great place to cool off, too. 

Within the reserve, visitors can soak at Río on Pools , cool off at Big Rock Falls , or book birdwatching trips and horseback riding tours. If you continue to the edge of the border, you’ll find Caracol , a Maya ruin that remains the tallest human-made structure in Belize.

Planning tip:  Though the main road has been paved to improve accessibility into the area, the volatile weather for which the tropics are known makes renting a 4WD the ideal way to reach this spot.

7. Hummingbird Highway

Best route for road trippers

Belize’s most scenic road is the Hummingbird Highway, connecting the capital city of Belmopan with the southern villages. The drive takes you through the forested mountains, between orchards and Mennonite farms, with stops for scenic cenotes and the best tamales you’ve ever had along the way.

Make time to stop at St Herman’s Blue Hole National Park to cool off, and pull over for Ms. Bertha’s Tamales for lunch – the red-and-white structure is located on the side of the highway in Middlesex.

You can't miss it, and every local knows where it is – the multiple cars surrounding it at any time are a testament to its popularity.

Because the Hummingbird Highway is situated between some of Belize’s other top destinations, it can be an ideal spot to base yourself – and the options are excellent.

The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant  immerses you in the rainforest, with an incredible view of the canopy and beyond. Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge is a family-friendly option that helped create Belize as an eco-friendly adventure travel destination and remains one of the best hotels for helping guests plan excursions of a lifetime.

Planning tip:  It’s not necessary to stay on the Hummingbird Highway to enjoy what it has to offer – just be sure to drive slowly and carefully to take in everything as you pass through. It’s a unique part of the country that makes any road trip worthwhile.

Best village for Garifuna culture

Belize is known for being diverse when it comes to culture, and one of the most unique groups in the country is the Garifuna people, who live predominantly in Hopkins , Dangriga , Placencia and areas near those villages. 

Hopkins is a small, upbeat village with a long sandy beach that, while lacking in many modern trappings of life, is a unique spot to explore Garifuna culture.

One of the most popular ways to do this is by attending a drumming lesson, which inevitably turns into a dance party. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef is a great place to stay in Hopkins, but there are budget options as well. 

9. Caye Caulker

Best place for laid-back travelers

Caye Caulker is an island near Ambergris Caye but with a very different personality. This is a laid-back place for backpackers, younger travelers, and those who like to go slow.

One of the most popular spots on the island is The Split , a hurricane-created channel at the northern end. This is the perfect place to grab a drink, go for a swim, and enjoy Caye Caulker’s relaxed party atmosphere.

Planning tip:  Head to Pasta per Caso , an Italian-owned restaurant with handmade pasta dishes, for a delicious meal.

This article was first published Dec 19, 2022 and updated Jan 10, 2024.

Supported by Belize Tourism

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

Funding for this story is provided by Belize Tourism. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

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Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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Pop Culture Happy Hour

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Pop Culture

You know it when you see it: here are some movies that got sex scenes right.

Linda Holmes

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist. Niko Tavernise/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures hide caption

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist.

What makes a good sex scene? It can be easier spot bad sex, but Aisha Harris, Christina Tucker, Ronald Young, Jr. and I tried to focus on the good this week on Pop Culture Happy Hour. You can listen to our full conversation here. (We didn't originally plan for this episode to run the same week as our episode about Challengers , which is out in theaters now, but it's a happy coincidence, since that film has gotten a lot of attention — probably too much, relative to its other merits — for the sex scenes involving its three leads. It's really very good .)

Movie Reviews

Watch a tense romantic triangle play out on the tennis court in 'challengers'.

It's often very obvious when a sex scene is bad, just like when a sex scene in a book is bad. It can get so uncomfortable to watch that you have to leave the room (and not in a way that feels true to the story). One of my personal tells for a bad sex scene is when all I can think about is how hard the actors are trying to persuade me that the characters are having a good time. For example, there has been much good discussion in recent years about Showgirls being a more interesting and competent project than it originally got credit for, but in that one pool scene (if you know it, you know it), all I can see is the effort.

Lauren Bacall And The 'Sex? What Sex?' Kind Of Movie Sex

It's not always as clear which scenes are good . That's partly because they serve so many different functions, all of which look different, and all of which can be effective. Furthermore, you don't want to confuse whether a sex scene is used well in a film with whether it's hot to you personally, despite the fact that there is overlap between those considerations.

In the 'Last Dance,' Magic Mike leaves his thong-and-dance routine behind

Here's what I mean: When Aisha talks about the sequence near the beginning of Magic Mike's Last Dance , it's not irrelevant that the scene is, to her (and to me), hot. But it also makes sense in the context of the film and the franchise, partly because of the way it sets up the power dynamic between Mike (Channing Tatum) and Max (Salma Hayek Pinault). Mike is older now, he knows more, and the way he approaches a lap dance is actually different than in earlier movies.

And not all good sex scenes are hot in the same ways. The one I mentioned in the episode, from the romantic drama Love & Basketball , is sexy, yes. But it's also a scene between young adults (the talented basketball players Monica and Quincy, played by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps), and as such, it incorporates a tentativeness that's not present in Magic Mike's Last Dance , to say the least. As Ronald pointed out during our discussion, that sex scene is quite different from one that takes place later in Monica and Quincy's relationship, when they're older and know each other better. That certainly feels true to real life, but it's not always reflected in Hollywood films, where I would tentatively estimate that 90% of on-screen sex is more idealized and thus less intimate than real-life sex, in part because it isn't allowed to change over the course of a relationship.

Movie Interviews

'like it or not, we live in oppenheimer's world,' says director christopher nolan.

Even further from the hotness of the lap dance scene is Ronald's pick: the imagination of Kitty Oppenheimer (Emily Blunt) running wild in Oppenheimer. While her husband (Cillian Murphy) is being interrogated, she pictures him having sex with his mistress, Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh). It goes by quickly enough that it might seem like a Christopher Nolan flourish for flourish's sake, but it serves the purpose of letting you feel her pain over her husband's affair. Her relationship with Robert doesn't look especially romantic in the film, let alone sexually charged; she finds herself consumed by the idea that he was having hot sex with this other woman, and she locks eyes with her vision of a naked Tatlock and finds herself tormented. It's not really the intent of the scene to titillate the audience, just to give specificity to the shape of Kitty's preoccupation with the affair.

What makes a good sex scene?

Christina raised another really important point, which is that sex scenes also collide with viewers at very specific moments. Her example from Bound , and the scenes between Violet (Jennifer Tilly) and Corky (Gina Gershon), touches on (among other things) her own history. It's an underappreciated aspect of the sex-in-movies discourse: representation matters in these scenes as much as anywhere else. I always wish I saw more sex scenes in movies that featured a broader variety of body types; it's still really rare to see ones that feature anybody who is even average sized. This is one of the reasons I'm curious about the upcoming season of Bridgerton , which places its focus on the gorgeous and curvaceous Penelope (Nicola Coughlan).

Looking for 'nomance': Study finds teens want less sex in their TV and movies

Good sex scenes are like any other kind of good filmmaking, honestly: it comes down to execution with purpose and care, done relative to whatever the function of the scene might be.

Whether that's spiciness or conflict or relationship growth or (as in the case of Bound ) setting up a steamy neo-noir story that wouldn't be the same if it weren't hot as heck, form follows function, ideally.

This piece also appeared in NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour newsletter. Sign up for the newsletter so you don't miss the next one, plus get weekly recommendations about what's making us happy.

Listen to Pop Culture Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts and Spotify .

• Best overall
• Best affordable
• Best on Amazon
• Best trendy
• Best luxury
• Best minimalist
• Best alpaca wool
• Best for transparency
• Best recycled
• Most unique
• Best color selection
• Best size inclusive
• Best heritage

The 39 best cashmere sweaters for a fresh, layered look this spring

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Of all the sweaters worth splurging on, only high-quality cashmere is guaranteed to keep you warmer than cotton or wool. The best cashmere sweaters are soft and insulating, yet still feel lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Yes, cashmere is notoriously expensive — but our favorite brands have proven to us why it's worth the spend. Here you'll find a range of styles we've curated, from classic crewnecks to trendy cropped cardigans. 

Our top overall pick is the Original Cashmere Sweater from Naadam. It first caught our attention years ago with how luxe it feels considering its cost, and has incredibly maintained a price tag of under $100 ever since. For another affordable and trendy option, we also love Quince's Mongolian Cashmere Fisherman Crewneck Sweater , which is super soft and perfect for layering. I wear mine at least once a week, and it's remarkably high quality for its price tag. 

Our top picks of the best cashmere sweaters

Best overall: Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater - See at Naadam The brand's first claim to fame, this luxury-grade crewneck is knit with the finest, sustainably sourced cashmere.  

Best affordable: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Fisherman Crewneck Sweater - See at Quince This chunky cashmere sweater is the best price point you'll find on a thick nautical-inspired type knit. 

Best on Amazon: Cashmere Boutique 100% Pure Cashmere Round Neck Cardigan Sweater - See at Amazon This pure cashmere cardigan comes at the convenience of Amazon's speedy delivery for a thoughtful gift on a time crunch. 

Best trendy: Reformation Ari Cashmere Sweater Cardigan - See at Reformation Reformation's 90/10 Cashmere collection includes this chic coquettish top with a sweet bow detail.

Best luxury: Eileen Fisher Cashmere Silk Bliss Crew Neck Top - See at Eileen Fisher The New York based designer's timeless silhouettes get a silken treatment resulting in a remarkably soft cashmere blend.

Best minimalist: Everlane The Cashmere Boxy Crew Neck - See at Everlane This casual, slightly cropped fit pairs well with anything in your fall wardrobe and is knit with soft recycled cashmere. 

Best alpaca wool: Peruvian Connection Basket Motif Pullover - See at Peruvian Connection Made in Peru with an Alpaca wool blend, this turtleneck is a warm alternative to cashmere that carries the tradition of the Andes into a gorgeous, hypoallergenic heritage piece.

Best for transparency: Gobi Organic Color Cashmere Mock Neck Sweater - See at Gobi Gobi offers extensive resources about their sourcing from the Banayankhongor Province, like with this thickly woven sweater made via traditional Mongolian cashmere practices. 

Best recycled: Patagonia Recycled Cashmere Turtleneck - See at Patagonia From one of our favorite B-corp certified companies, this turtleneck is made with repurposed cashmere spun into a cozy yarn.

Best unique: Leret Leret Squeeze Me - See at Leret Leret Made in collaboration with British artist Angelica Hicks, this darling design exemplifies the illustrator's clever visual puns. 

Best color selection: J. Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater - See at J. Crew J.Crew's best selling cashmere crewneck is perfect for collecting in any of its 18 vibrant colorways. Best size inclusive: Lands' End Plus Size Cashmere Long Sleeve Polo - See at Lands' End Lands' End offers extended sizes in their cozy cashmere knits, such as with this striped polo style. 

Best heritage: N. Peal x The Jockey Club Roundneck Cashmere Sweater  - See at N. Peal The storied London brand collaborated with Britain's famed horseracing group on an equestrian-inspired collection, tying together a long history of luxury cashmere with the sport. 

Best overall: Naadam

Naadam cashmere is special because its facilities are powered by a closed-loop system that limits water waste, and their supply chain is operated by workers sponsored by the brand's donations to The Gobi Revival Fund NGO. The end result is a sweater worth investing in. In addition to pure cashmere, the brand offers the best cashmere sweaters in blended knits like Merino wool cashmere, modal cashmere, recycled cashmere, and other super soft combinations. Their signature is the Original Cashmere Sweater, which has remained under $100 from as far back as 2018, and still maintains its original premium feel. They carry a wide variety of other styles from loungewear to varsity cardigans, in a size range of XXS to XXL. Read more in our full Naadam vs. Quince cashmere review.

Best affordable: Quince

Quince is one of our absolute favorite direct-to-consumer brands for quality basics at accessible prices. Their original claim to fame is a $50 sweater made from 100% Grade A Mongolian Cashmere. This lightweight crewneck is soft on the skin and can be layered over a collared button down for a preppy look, or otherwise worn as a cozy pajama top. Quince's size availability for their best cashmere sweaters ranges from XS-XL. Quince also has maternity sizing and cozy knit accessories to pair with their Mongolian or elevated Super Luxe Baby Cashmere sweaters. Read our full Quince review and Quince cashmere review . 

Best on Amazon: Cashmere Boutique

Cashmere Boutique brings the luxury of 100% cashmere to the convenience of Amazon with their array of sweaters and accessories. Be it cashmere slippers, socks, scarves or sweaters – it's all in one place. Their imported cashmere sweaters make a great last minute gift if you're in need of a soft sentiment on a Prime delivery schedule. Some styles range from a one-size-fits-all scale to a standard S-XL.

Best trendy: Reformation

Reformation offers a range of trend-forward silhouettes, despite the brand's sizing leaving something to be desired. Despite this, the youthful brand puts sustainability at the forefront by offsetting carbon emissions and recycling or donating textile scraps. Their 90/10 Cashmere line offers fashion-forward pieces like cropped sweaters, as well as timeless basics like turtlenecks and cardigans, made from 90% post-industrial recycled cashmere. 

Best luxury: Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher's  designs are simple, sophisticated, and sustainable from the beginning of their conception to wherever they land in your wardrobe. Their polished women's cashmere sweater collection consists of pure cashmere, cashmere silk blend, or recycled cashmere knits. The 100% Italian cashmere is a very fine, minimally treated lightweight fabric that feels luxurious to the touch and won't pill over time. The Cashmere Silk Bliss sweaters are knit with silk cashmere blend yarn, and the Lofty Recycled Cashmere is spun using scraps from the cutting room floors of Eileen Fisher's production facilities to prevent waste. Their sizes range from XXS to 3XL.

Best minimalist: Everlane

Everlane is one of our favorite places to buy all kinds of high-quality basics. Their cashmere sweater offerings include subtle updates on traditional styles with a great price tag. Everlane's Grade-A Mongolian cashmere runs from $110 to $230 in sizes XXS to XL. The most popular and versatile style of their top women's cashmere sweaters, The Cashmere Crew , is one of the cheapest and best options, and former senior reporter Mara Leighton calls it the backbone of her fall and winter wardrobe. Read her full Everlane Cashmere Sweater review .

Best alpaca wool: Peruvian Connection

Though alpaca wool sweaters are made of a totally different material than the cashmere harvested from the undercoat of goats, they're worth mentioning on this list considering both are naturally regenerative resources. Alpaca wool may also serve as a cozy alternative to those with cashmere allergies. 

Peruvian Connection claims to follow the protocol of "The Technical Norms for Shearing and Handling Alpaca Fiber Fleece" approved by the Peruvian Ministry of Production that enforces ethical treatment of the animals. Their warm, soft sweaters come in your standard solid knit pullovers in sizes XS-XL, with more options in colorful, traditional Peruvian patterns that pay tribute to the origin of the alpaca wool sweater.

Best for transparency: Gobi

For sound mind on where the best cashmere sweater actually comes from, Gobi Cashmere is a 100% Mongolian company that works with local herders who hand-comb the cashmere fibers, which creates an even softer handfeel. Without third-party interference, Gobi is able to price their signature organic cashmere sweater and hat set as low as $99. They also have pricier options like their silk cashmere blends and heavier knits, in sizes ranging from S to 2XL. I've worn the sweater pictured above in lieu of layering up with long-sleeved tees and fleeces, and it's incredibly thick and warm even with just a cami underneath. It's the ultimate solution for anyone who feels encumbered by wearing multiple jackets at a time. The has style since sold out, though I've found this Organic Color Cashmere Mock Neck has a similar silhouette and thickness — plus, it's completely free of dyes or bleaches. 

Best recycled: Patagonia

Patagonia is a beloved B-corp retail company most people recognize for signature fleeces, but their exemplary sustainability standards also extend to their recycled cashmere collection. Each piece consists of 95% cashmere scraps collected from European garment factories, which is then woven with 5% virgin wool for added strength. 

The four styles of their small but mighty collection of cashmere sweaters (crewneck, turtleneck, and two cardigans) are available in sizes XS-XL.

Most unique: Leret Leret

If you're looking to splurge on a truly unique piece, Leret Leret has whimsical designs woven into expertly constructed investment pieces.The luxury shop specializes exclusively in cashmere and offers a slew of memorable designs while also offering simpler patterns, like stripes or checkers. Each $475-$575 sweater is a limited-edition piece, so be sure to grab your favorite while you can. The unisex sweaters are available in sizes XXS to XXL.

Best color selection: J. Crew

J.Crew is your one-stop shop for the best cashmere sweaters that go beyond your average camel-colored pullovers. Yes, you can take your pick of classic colors at J.Crew's Cashmere Shop, but if it's a bright or unique color you're after, you're still in the right place.

J.Crew is the first US member of the Aid by Trade Foundation , which helps promote sustainable agricultural development — including sustainable cashmere production — and is certified under the AbTF's The Good Cashmere Standard . We also love the brand's inclusive size range, with sweaters sizing up to a 3XL (size 24).

Best size inclusive: Lands' End

If you're more interested in classic, modest styles of women's cashmere sweaters, Lands' End is the place to expand your selection. Their 2 ply cashmere is on the more expensive side, but the brand hosts sales often. Another pro: Lands' End offers a larger size range than many other cashmere sweater brands on the market. 

Best heritage: N. Peal

The first N.Peal store opened in 1936 at London's original department store, the Burlington Arcade. The brand's luxury reputation was secured when seen on Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe and Ava Gardner. Currently, you can shop its " Bond Woman " collection designed in collaboration with the 007 franchise.

Its broader sweater selection has XS-L classic jumpers, turtlenecks, polos in organic 100% Mongolian cashmere with some silhouettes available in reversible and superfine cashmere versions. N.Peal's peak standards for production are fulfilled by their own facilities that harvest, dehair, dye, spin, and knit the best cashmere sweaters that have persisted throughout the label's history.

Cashmere Sweater FAQs

What is cashmere .

Cashmere is a thin, soft, and finely textured knit fabric made from the fibers combed from the undercoat of cashmere goats. It gets its name from the Kashmir region of northern India and is distinct from the fibers harvested from sheep that make wool. Even though they're related materials, cashmere is three times more insulating than wool. It's also naturally more breathable.

Why is cashmere so expensive? 

Because of its scarcity, labor-intensive process, production standards, comfort, and long-term durability, a quality cashmere sweater is considered an investment piece. Expensive cashmere indicates the material's laborious combing and production process. It takes approximately 4-5 fully grown goats to make just one 100% cashmere sweater. Cashmere is also only collected as little as once a year, depending on the area. 

In the US cashmere must also meet certain criteria, including:

• The average diameter of the fiber cannot exceed 19 micrometers. 
• The product cannot contain more than 3% by weight of cashmere fibers with average diameters that exceed 30 micrometers.

As a naturally regenerative resource, 100% cashmere is in many ways more eco-friendly than say, polyester. Still, it does take a toll on the environment, and the available quantity is reliant on the well-being of goat herds, their habitat, and their caretakers. Paying more for a cashmere sweater means investing in the quality of life for those who produce it.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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How did fan culture take over? And why is it so scary? Justin Taylor’s novel “Reboot” examines the convergence of entertainment , online arcana and conspiracy theory.

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A new photo book reorients dusty notions of a classic American pastime with  a stunning visual celebration of black rodeo.

Two hundred years after his death, this Romantic poet is still worth reading . Here’s what made Lord Byron so great.

Harvard’s recent decision to remove the binding of a notorious volume  in its library has thrown fresh light on a shadowy corner of the rare book world.

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Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

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