Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations in 2024
2024 promises to be another exciting year of global exploration, from Canadian ski mountains reviving their popularity to Europe’s Atlantic tropics enticing travelers across the globe. Discover Nat Hab trips that lead you there, and witness life through fresh eyes.
These revitalized gems provide experiences that go beyond the ordinary–where culture flourishes without crowds being an issue.
1. St Helena
St Helena lies at the southernmost end of the Atlantic Ocean and boasts an intriguing history not limited to that of Napoleon; also include slave trade and its rich maritime legacy.
Hiking on the island is a pleasure, with trails winding through lush eucalyptus forests, acacia woodlands, ancient deserts and sea cliffs. The island’s popular Post Box Walks have 21 walks that may prove challenging but are worth every step due to the magnificent scenery.
St Helena Island boasts several amazing wineries, delightful restaurants and shops on Main Street. Additionally, Mad Fritz brewery, run by two husband-and-wife beermakers from St Helena itself is located here as well as abundant marine life including reefs, caves and 8 wrecks for exploration in its waters surrounding St Helena.
2. Peru
Tourists today are looking for unique travel experiences beyond popular locations like London, Paris and Rome; therefore we help travelers uncover off-the-beaten-path locales all over the globe.
Peru offers something for every type of adventurer imaginable, from scuba diving and high peak mountain climbing, rainforest explorations, beach towns along the Pacific coast and beach towns off Quito’s capital city – not to mention all there is beyond it to discover! Quito serves as an excellent starting point, yet there’s so much more awaiting discovery beyond Quito itself.
The Yale Peruvian Expedition of 1911 made many discoveries that due to time or financial limitations could not receive proper consideration at that time. Of particular note were Parinacochas ruins – better known today as Flamingo Lake – as well as evidence that Inca civilization, like all others before them, was built around mining; indeed Peru is second largest mining nation worldwide.
3. The Seychelles
Seychelles is a tropical island paradise renowned for its unspoiled beaches, lush forests and towering peaks – unspoiled by commercial tourism. Explore Mahe, Praslin and Silhouette’s granite islands for themselves with nature trails that range from easy to challenging terrain.
Take a ferry or cruise over to Aldabra Atoll and admire its bathtub-size carapaces of giant tortoises from around the world’s largest wild population of giant tortoises, or explore Union Estate park on La Digue or Bird Island where hundreds of sooty and lesser noddies, white fairy terns and hawksbill turtles nest.
Travelers seeking an authentic experience should explore these hidden beaches in Albania or Bolivia; Uyuni salt flats provide spectacular vistas while beaches provide respite. With more trips planned for 2024 to help Platinum Card Members find their ideal travel spots, explore more trips for 2024 now!
4. Japan
Japan is a complicated, ancient society which emerged as one of the world’s most advanced economic nations after WWII. Yet it still retains a deep sense of cultural tradition while striving for balance and harmony in society.
Japan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Himeji Castle and Koyasan’s temple complex where pilgrims come together in reflection of Shinto (an ancient practice of nature worship) and Buddhism from China and Korea, respectively. Additionally, thousands of tame sika deer roam Nara’s streets where once-powerful samurai once reigned supreme (with permission to kill anyone threatening their honor).
Bhutan boasts breathtaking mountain scenery, stunning temples and dzongs (fortress monasteries), colorful festivals, stunning textiles woven by skilled weavers and engaging people from all backgrounds. Additionally, this Buddhist kingdom boasts an excellent tourism policy charging visitors a fee that goes towards conservation efforts and community development projects.
5. Europe
London, United Kingdom: For an exciting history and culture experience, visit Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and British Museum. Afterward, stroll through Camden Town markets before catching a theater show in West End or satisfying your appetite with some delicious fish and chips at a traditional pub to complete your journey.
Gjirokaster may be overshadowed by its nearby sand dunes, but this Balkan destination’s Albanian and Ottoman influences make it a cultural haven. A new cycling route set to open by 2024 promises stunning scenery to thrill hardy bikers.
Iraq is an intriguing and diverse nation that’s now welcoming tourists with open arms. Explore millennia-old sites while experiencing local cultures and hospitality first-hand.
