Starting to think about where you might like to travel next year, now that restrictions are lifting?
Just in time to help you make your decision, National Geographic has released its annual list of the 25 must-see destinations for next year.
National Geographic made its selections based on five categories – nature, adventure, culture, sustainability and family.
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National Geographic executive travel editor George Stone said that selections on the list honour national parks and wildlife, outdoor activities and experiences and green travel.
“From the ‘next great safari destination’ of Caprivi, Namibia, to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on Maryland’s eastern shore, to the ancient tea mountains and traditions of Yunnan, China, this year’s list is a reminder that there is much out there to inspire us,” Mr Stone said.
The list also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, with 10 World Heritage-designated sites featured.
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“While the pandemic stalled many of our travel plans for nearly two years, our appetite for new and impactful journeys has only grown,” Mr Stone said.
“In many ways, the pandemic provided a moment for travellers and communities around the world to reflect and regroup on how we explore the world.
“With this year’s list, Nat Geo takes a look at what’s different, new, and inspiring – from the new Seine River bike trail in France to Chimanimani National Park, a new national park in Mozambique that signals the country’s environmental commitment.”
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Victoria was selected as one of the best places to enjoy nature in the world by National Geographic Traveller UK’s Connor McGovern.
Mr McGovern recommended driving the Great Ocean Road, where the Wildlife Wonders sanctuary in the Otways is playing an important role in Australia’s recovery after the bushfires of 2019–2020.
Here is the National Geographic Best in the World list of 2022:
Nature
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Northern Minnesota, United States
- Lake Baikal, Russia
- Belize Maya Forest Reserve
- Victoria, Australia.
Adventure
- Seine River Bike Trail, France
- Costa Rica
- Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail, New Brunswick, Canada
- Palau
- Arapahoe Basin, Colorado, United States.
Sustainability
- Ruhr Valley, Germany
- Parque Nacional Yasuni, Ecuador
- Łódź, Poland
- National Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, Oregon/Washington, United States
- Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique.
Culture
- Jingmai Mountain, Yunnan, China
- Tin Pan Alley, London, England
- Hokkaido, Japan
- Procida, Italy
- Atlanta, Georgia, United States.
Family
- Danube River Cruise
- Lycia, Turkey
- Granada, Spain
- Bonaire
- Eastern Shore, Maryland, United States.
How many places in the National Geographic top 25 destinations have you already visited? Which was your favourite? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
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