Countries worth visiting

24/11/2020

Bhutan

Bhutan was named the top travel destination for 2020 as it's about to become the first fully organic nation.

The country, which has long been applauded for its low carbon emissions, has been teaching farmers organic practices — and how to profit from them — since making its pledge to go fully organic in 2011, Reuters reported.

And it's a wonderful travel destination, too. From lush, undulating landscapes and extensive wildlife preserves to historic Buddhist monasteries and traditional art forms, there is so much for any visitor to explore.

"Bhutan is no ordinary place," according to Lonely Planet. "It is the last great Himalayan kingdom, shrouded in mystery and magic, where a traditional Buddhist culture carefully embraces global developments."

24/11/2020

England

While tourists may flock to Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, Lonely Planet suggests visitors should travel to England's coastal towns instead.

The English seaside gives locals and visitors the chance to search for marine life in rock pools, find fossils in cliffs — and of course, eat fish and chips.

In 2020, new sections of the England Coast Path will continue to open, making it easier to explore the country's coastline.

24/11/2020

North Macedonia

If you want an alternative to Europe's more popular travel spots, North Macedonia could be for you.

Its mountain trails are "blissfully quiet," the locals are "unfailingly helpful," and the national parks are "are cultivating some excellent cultural ... initiatives," according to Lonely Planet.

24/11/2020

Aruba

Tourists know this Caribbean getaway for its white-sand beaches, sparkling waters, and laid-back resorts.

Aruba's temperatures usually stay around 80 degrees — making a dip in the water seem too good to pass up. Once you take the plunge, you'll find endless snorkeling and diving opportunities, such as the USS Antilla, a WWII US Navy ship that has turned into an artificial reef.

It also has attractive green initiatives, such as its plan to ban all single-use plastics and reef-destroying sunscreens in 2020.

18/11/2020

Eswatini

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, rewards visitors with wildlife, mountain views, valleys of pineapples and sugar cane, and unmatched crafts.

It's also your best bet to see a rhino: Mkhaya Game Reserve claims you're more likely to see a rhino there than anywhere else in Africa.

18/11/2020

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is beloved for many reasons, from its coffee to its epic surfing.

It's also notable for its reliance on green energy sources. In fact, 90% of its energy is created by renewable sources, such as wind and hydro. It is also one of the world's most biodiverse countries — home to half a million species.

And of course, no trip to Costa Rica is complete without a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary.

18/11/2020

The Netherlands
Visit the Netherlands for its art history and world-class galleries, its perfectly flat cycling routes along canals and past fields of tulips, or for the charm and nightlife of Amsterdam. Whatever the reason, it will take your breath away.

"Some two-thirds of the surface is devoted to agriculture," the Lonely Planet said, "including beautiful rainbow fields of crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths and tulips that burst into flower each year between March and May. The kaleidoscope of colour is nothing short of psychedelic."

16/11/2020

Liberia
In Liberia, travelers will find Sapo National Park, one of West Africa's best national parks. The protected tropical rainforests are home to wildlife including tropical birds, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and pygmy hippos.

The country also provides visitors with top-notch surf spots, gold-sand beaches and elegant stores.

"With travel restrictions lifted, tourism can play a huge role" in the country bouncing back from the Ebola virus, according to Lonely Planet.

16/11/2020

Morocco
Escape to Morocco and you'll find a country of "dizzying diversity."

From exploring ancient cities, taking days-long camel treks to the Erg Chigaga sand dunes, and hiking to see panoramic views in the High Atlas Mountains — travelers will be spoiled with endless options for adventure.

"Morocco has a hundred faces and sounds, all ready to welcome the traveller looking for spice and adventure," Lonely Planet's website reads.

16/11/2020

Uruguay
Tenth on the list of must-see countries in 2020 is Uruguay.

The country, which Lonely Planet called "progressive, stable, safe and culturally sophisticated," provides innumerable special experiences for visitors, from the eclectic, historic streets of Montevideo to welcoming hot springs and laid-back beach towns.

"After two centuries living in the shadow of its neighbors, South America's smallest country is finally getting a little well-deserved recognition," according to Lonely Planet.

16/11/2020