35 Best Places to Travel in 2024 – Top Destinations

Are you ready to start a journey to find the best places to travel in 2024? Whether seeing a total solar eclipse in North America or exploring Japanese culture, we have many adventures awaiting. This year’s travel map is full of places that will spark your sense of wonder. Let’s discover  these off-the-beaten-path gems and renowned spots that can make 2024 truly memorable.

This coming April is a special time for North America, with a total solar eclipse in store. This rare event will let us see the shadow of the moon move over the sun. People from 13 U.S. states, as well as Mexico and Canada, can witness this from unique locations. With the moon almost touching Earth, this eclipse will create an extra-wide shadow, offering a spectacular view for all who love the sky.

Awe-Inspiring Astronomical Events

The stage will be the sky on April 8 from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Maberly, Newfoundland. This year’s eclipse is special because the moon is close to Earth, making the experience wider and longer. Mexico, Canada, and 13 U.S. states are ready to celebrate with eclipse festivals and celebrations.

Total Solar Eclipse Across North America

This eclipse is a rare chance to see the sun’s corona when the moon blocks its light. As viewers watch, they will see a celestial phenomenon. It reminds us of the astronomical events that make our world amazing.

Best Places to Travel – Eclipse Festivals and Celebrations

In Mazatlán, the Portal Eclipse Festival will focus on “spiritual growth” with D.J.s and yoga. It invites people to engage with the intergalactic experiences it offers. In Indianapolis, NASA will broadcast from a special event at the Speedway. For $15, people can join in with eclipse glasses named the Greatest Spectacles. Near Niagara Falls in Canada, Cosmologists Without Borders will host space programs. They will offer sky-watching adventures and lunar spectacles.

For those up for adventure, Millinocket, Maine, has a special race planned. This event combines cosmic celebrations with eclipse tourism. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying the solar eclipse and exploring our celestial world.

Urban Explorations and International Events

Paris is already a top choice for many travelers. Now, it’s getting ready for even more visitors.  The 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will make this summer unforgettable. This event will turn famous sites into sports and fun spots.

Paris 2024 Summer Olympics

The Olympics’ opening show will happen by the River Seine, near the Eiffel Tower. There, you’ll see outdoor swimming and para-triathlon events in a beautiful scene. The Grand Palais is also preparing for its role, with fencing and taekwondo happening inside.

Outside Paris, the Château de Versailles will turn into an equestrian event area and a gallery. La Concorde will see the first Olympic break dancing. And, you’ll find sports like skateboarding and three-on-three basketball there.

Paris Impressionist Art Exhibitions

Paris is one of the best places to travel, it’s also hosting Impressionist art shows this summer. These events will feature famous artists’ works. It’s a unique chance to dive into the colorful world of Impressionist paintings.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Reopening

The Notre-Dame Cathedral will open again in 2024. After the 2019 fire, it’s been under serious renovation. This Gothic marvel is a highlight for anyone into urban tourism and architectural marvels.

Hidden Gems of Japan

In Japan, there’s a gem often hidden from the big crowds – the city of Yamaguchi. Known as the “Kyoto of the West,” it captivates with its small town charm. With about 190,000 people, it gives a more real and less traveled look at Japan’s historic cities and traditional experiences.

Yamaguchi’s Historic Charm

Yamaguchi sits pretty between two seas and is filled with cultural treasures. The Rurikoji Temple boasts perfect gardens and a five-story pagoda which are national treasures. It’s a delight to stroll down the city’s winding lanes, past places like the Mizunoue pottery kilns and cozy coffee shops. For a peaceful break, the hot-springs village of Yuda Onsen is just a short walk south.

Gion Festival in Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi’s Gion Festival is a gem not as known as Kyoto’s but just as rich in history. It’s been happening for over 600 years. In July, you’ll see cheerful parades, beautiful outfits, and dances that are a true cultural festival delight. Next year, in 2024, it’s coming back in full swing after some tough times. This makes it a perfect time for travelers to see this off-the-beaten-path destination and savor Kyoto alternatives and traditional experiences.

Sustainable Travel by Train in New Zealand

Road-tripping across New Zealand in a camper van is thrilling for adventurous folks. But a simpler and greener way is by train. Choose a 17-day trip on Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. These are part of Great Journeys – KiwiRail’s tourism arm. You’ll go from Auckland to these best places to travel like Tongariro National Park and Te Papa Tongarewa Museum.

You’ll ferry across Cook Strait to the South Island. Then, hop on the Coastal Pacific. This train journey is through beautiful vineyards and along the rugged coast. You can stop to see whales and dolphins before reaching Christchurch. The last train, TranzAlpine, starts from the green Canterbury Plains. It goes over the Southern Alps, showing you stunning views. Along the way, you’ll stay in four-star places.

In spring, new train carriages will have comfy reclining seats and big windows. They are good for the environment too. This is great for eco-friendly transportation and green tourism in New Zealand.

Maui’s Resilience and Natural Beauty

Maui is Hawaii’s second biggest island and a favorite for many. Last summer, wildfires spread across its west, claiming lives and destroying Lahaina. For two months, people couldn’t travel there. The incident raised worries about tourism’s future, a major part of Maui’s economy. Although Lahaina is still recovering, Maui welcomes visitors. It’s full of activities and beautiful natural landscapes.

Exploring Maui’s Beaches and Parks

Kamaole State Beach Park in Kihei is perfect for snorkeling and seeing sea turtles. Kapalua, to the north, has a lovely trail through lava fields by the sea. These best places to travel like the Haleakalā National Park, loved by many, are safe from fires. Also, travelers can help those hurt by the wildfires. This shows Maui’s strength and love for its people.

The Hawaii tourism sector is key to Maui’s well-being. By supporting local shops, visitors help with the island exploration and the recovery of burned areas. From great beach spots in Kihei and Wailea to beautiful parks and recreation areas, Maui is still a must-visit. It highlights the stunning and resilient side of Hawaii.

Ancestral Lands of the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon National Park has long been a spot on many travel lists. But now, there’s another reason to visit the area in the southwestern U.S. The new Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni monument saves about 900,000 acres of land. It’s known as the Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon.

This place holds great meaning for over a dozen Indigenous tribes. More than 3,000 significant Native cultural and historic sites can be found here. These areas show how spiritually and sacredly important the land is.

Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Monument

The Biden administration honored Indigenous efforts on August 8, 2023. They protected nearly a million acres near the Grand Canyon with the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Monument. This includes parts near the Kaibab National Forest and the Navajo Nation.

This monument stops harmful activities like energy extraction. It also strengthens the bond between the National Park Service and the tribes. The goal is to keep the land safe and honor its importance.

Native American Cultural Experiences

Support local tribes by taking a Colorado River trip with Hualapai River Runners. It’s a tour service by the Hualapai Tribe. They offer white-water rafting with expert guides. Always look out for the California condor, now over 100 strong due to conservation.

Singapore’s Luxury and Innovation

Since leaving colonial rule in 1965, Singapore has been on a fast track to becoming modern. It has grown into the best places to travel and a top destination with its Singapore travel, food, unique buildings, and a world-famous airport. Now, it’s adding to its appeal with many new luxury experiences hotels.

New Luxury Hotel Openings

On Orchard Road, Edition has opened a 204-room luxury hotel. The Standard will follow suit later this year. Also, iconic hotels like Mandarin Oriental and Grand Hyatt have come back after big renovations. This move shows Singapore’s dedication to new innovative destinations and high standards of hospitality developments.

Changi Airport Expansion

Changi Airport is not falling behind. In November, Terminal 2 reopened with upgrades like automated check-ins and more, increasing its capacity to 28 million visitors yearly. It aims to provide even smoother service with new biometrics and facial tech. This improves tourism infrastructure and airport modernization.

Best Places to Travel – Chile’s O’Higgins Region

The O’Higgins Region of Chile is becoming one of the best places to travel. Nestled just south of Santiago, it offers experiences in Chile travel, rural tourism, and culinary experiences. The area faces issues like climate change, wildfires, and earthquakes.

Despite these challenges, the locals work hard to keep their traditions alive. Campesinos, or rural farmers, are at the heart of this effort. A group of them, including cooks, winemakers, and artisan growers, are working to maintain their way of life.

Ruta de los Abastos Rural Culinary Experiences

In 2023, the Ruta de los Abastos project started. It offers hands-on experiences with the region’s food producers. Visitors can see local beekeepers, oyster farmers, and more.

They also visit local markets and restaurants. El Abasto in Rancagua and Vineyard eateries show off the region’s flavors. 

Regional Cuisine and Winemaking

The Cachapoal Valley is known for its food. It features dishes with coastal lamb and regional quinoa. The Colchagua Valley shines with its wine-focused cuisine.

Here, you’ll find interesting wine and food matches. It’s a top spot for winemaking and food.

The O’Higgins Region isn’t just great for food. It has a variety of places to stay, from luxurious hotels to campsites. These places fit different budgets and tastes.

There are best places to travel that are easy to access for everyone, like the Inclusive Beach of Pichilemu. They make sure everyone can enjoy their visit.

The O’Higgins Region is perfect for adventurous travelers. With its less-traveled places, tasty food, and famous wines, it’s a must-see. You’ll get a true sense of rural life in Chile.

Best Places to Travel – Puerto Rico’s Surf Revival

In 2019 and 2020, Puerto Rico faced terrible earthquakes. Then, in 2017, Hurricane Maria hit. Despite these challenges, the island became a top spot for travelers from the U.S. This was thanks in part to hosting the International Surfing Association’s World Surfing Games in Arecibo.

The town of Arecibo is just an hour west of San Juan. It saw intense action as the 2024 World Surfing Games were held there. This event was the final chance for surfers to qualify for the Summer Olympics. It was the first time in 36 years that Puerto Rico hosted the event, shining a spotlight on its waves.

More good news came with new flights to San Juan. Avelo Airlines started flights from Philadelphia and New Haven. Also, JetBlue now flies from Raleigh, North Carolina. These flights make it easier for surf lovers to reach Puerto Rico. Plus, Spirit offers a route from Fort Myers. Southwest plans to start flights from Austin on March 9.

Aside from surfing, Puerto Rico offers a lot more to explore. Its natural wonders, like the bioluminescent bays, are a huge draw. These unique and best places to travel make the island a perfect spot for adventure and recovery in the Caribbean.