Whether you like the beach, exploring ancient ruins, relaxing in a thermal spa, viewing wildlife or shopping and dining, these sunny destinations can satisfy your desire for that once-in-a-lifetime escape.
Whether you like the beach, exploring ancient ruins, relaxing in a thermal spa, viewing wildlife or shopping and dining, these sunny destinations can satisfy your desire for that once-in-a-lifetime escape.
No doubt about it, the pandemic changed the way many people approach travel.
Despite the complications of Covid and frequent flight cancellations, many travelers have reprioritized and are looking for that once-in-a lifetime vacation, according to an American Express (AXP) – Get American Express Company Report travel survey from February. The survey found that 55% of respondents want to book a once-in-a-lifetime vacation this year, and 74% are willing to book a trip for 2022 even if they might have to cancel or modify it later.
Travelers are more focused on engaging in positive practices, including wellness activities, giving back to communities and protecting the environment, the survey found.
The sunny destinations on this list aren’t just for basking or laying on the beach. There’s also beautiful sunsets over turquoise waters, rays of light emanating from the clouds over a sleepy volcano, or dappled sunlight through the trees of the rainforest.
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Whether you like the beach, diving, water sports or hiking, exploring historic sites and ancient ruins, visiting landmarks, relaxing in a thermal spa, learning about the local culture, viewing wildlife or shopping and dining, these destinations offer a range of activities that can satisfy just about everyone for that once-in-a-lifetime escape.
Travel booking site Tripadvisor chooses its top destinations based on the quantity and quality of traveler reviews and ratings for destinations on their site, gathered over a 12-month period.
Here are their 25 top places for sun seekers.
1. Cancun, MexicoCancun is well known for its golf, shopping, dining and entertainment, and it’s not just a party town, it also has a number of family-oriented resorts.
Besides its world-famous beaches, Cancun is a gateway to the tropical climate of the Yucatan Peninsula and the ruins of the Mayan civilization, including Chichen Itza.
Just off the coast of Cancun is Isla Mujeres, a popular vacation spot. Playa Norte, with its soft, white sand, palm trees and blue water is considered one of the best beaches in all of Mexico.
2. Bali, IndonesiaBali is a province of Indonesia, and a popular spot for tourists and digital nomads. It’s magical blend of culture, people, nature, activities, weather, culinary delights and nightlife with a range of lodgings from low-budget to high-end luxury.
Bali offers action and adventure, beautiful landscapes, temples and religious sites, animal and activity parks, golf, surfing and traditional villages.
3. Crete, GreeceThe largest and most populous of the Greek islands, Crete has both beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. The picturesque town of Chania, shown here, is one of the oldest cities in the world. Known for its Venetian harbor, its old port, narrow shopping streets and waterfront restaurants, Chania has an archaeological museum with artifacts dating back 5,000 years, a Byzantine museum, a maritime museum and a historical archives museum. The town was built on the site of ancient Kidonia, mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.
On the southwestern side of Crete is Elafonissi Beach. Its white sand has pink hues, the clear water is shallow, warm and good for small children.