best country to visit by month

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

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The Best Travel Destinations for Every Month

Amanda Norcross

Amanda Norcross has served as an editorial and on-air travel expert for nearly a decade. Her expertise has been featured in numerous media outlets including Bloomberg, NBC News, PEOPLE , Skift and The New York Times . Follow her on Twitter , Instagram , and TripAdvisor for travel inspiration and advice.

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“When is the best time to go?” It’s usually the first question—and probably the most important question—we ask when planning a trip to a place we’ve been dreaming about. We want to know what the weather will be like, the cost of transportation and accommodations during our anticipated travel dates, which local events will take place, and more. Let this guide be an easy answer to all of those questions and a piece of vacation inspiration, too. Read on to discover the best places to travel by month.

Where to Go in January: Thailand

January is high season in Thailand—and with good reason. The weather is warm and consistently sunny in all regions of the country. In January, Chiang Mai hosts the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, a three-day celebration of colorful parasols (with fantastic photo ops galore). You might also consider going south to Ko Lipe, a small island with beaches and picturesque bungalows.

Additional Suggestions: Costa Rica, for green foliage and clear skies; Oman, for temperate weather and the Muscat Festival, a month-long celebration of culture and history that starts in mid-January.

Check Prices for Akyra Manor Chiang Mai in Chiang Mai

Where to go in february: colombia.

As a tropical country, Colombia only has two seasons—dry and rainy—and February is part of the warm, sunny dry season in most of the country. Colombia’s average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with even cooler temperatures in high-altitude cities such as Medellin and Bogata. In February (sometimes early March) you can celebrate Carnaval de Barranquilla in Atlantico.

Additional Suggestions: Trinidad and Tobago, for Carnival celebrations; Belize, for balmy weather and little chance of rain.

Check Prices for Grand Hyatt Bogota in Bogota

Where to go in march: galapagos islands.

The Galapagos Islands beckon outdoor enthusiasts no matter the time of year, but the month of March offers a few special reasons to visit. During this time, visitors have the chance to see several species nesting, including sea turtles, iguanas (both marine and land), tortoises, and even penguins. Sure, the sun is intense, but nothing beats an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and prime underwater visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Additional Suggestions: New Zealand , for pleasant autumn weather; Washington, D.C. , for the National Cherry Blossom Festival (late March into April).

Check Prices for Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel in Puerto Ayora

Where to go in april: morocco.

Summers in Morocco can be unbearably hot, and winters quite cold. That’s why April is a prime time to plan a trip. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures coupled with magnificent scenery—particularly the fruit trees that blossom in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

Additional Suggestions: Spain, to avoid the summer heat and crowds; Paris, for the flowers at Luxembourg Gardens; Amsterdam, to see Keukenhof in full bloom.

Check Prices for Riad Melhoun & Spa in Marrakech

Where to go in may: peru.

Winter in Peru starts in May, but it’s likely not the kind of winter you’re used to. During this time the climate is dry, and temperatures—which can climb into the 80s—are especially enjoyable in the highlands. This is the best time to visit famed Machu Picchu , where you won’t find as many crowds.

Additional Suggestions: South Africa, for warm, dry weather and good game viewing; Western Australia, for whale shark season.

Check Prices for Retama Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes

Where to go in june: iceland.

Iceland is a no-brainer during the month of June (specifically late June) when travelers can take advantage of long days—commonly known as the midnight sun. Plan to be there on June 21, when the sun sets just after midnight and then rises again around 3:00 a.m. in Reykjavik. The highland roads in the mountains are also open during this time (they are closed over the colder months).

Additional Suggestions: Norway, for mild weather and long hours of sunlight; Malaysia, for prime snorkeling conditions; Hungary, for summer festivals galore.

Check Prices for Reykjavik Residence Hotel in Reykjavik

Where to go in july: french polynesia.

There are just two seasons in French Polynesia: winter and summer. The best time to visit is actually winter, which takes place between May and October. July, smack dab in the middle of the season, is an ideal time to visit, with low humidity and temperatures topping out in the 80s. Divers also enjoy excellent visibility. It’s expensive to visit in July (or any time, really), but many resorts— overwater bungalows included—offer package deals.

Additional Suggestions: Botswana, for dry weather and prime wildlife sightings; Barbados, for sugar cane harvest celebrations.

Check Prices for Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora in Bora Bora

Where to go in august: indonesia.

If you’re looking for perfect weather just about anywhere in Indonesia, consider a visit in August. Head to the coast of Bali for temperatures in the 70s, or climb up to the volcanoes (just wear a jacket—the highlands and mountains are chilly in August).

Additional Suggestions: Edinburgh, for summer festivals; Slovenia, for hiking in the Julian Alps and swimming in turquoise lakes.

Check Prices for Aksari Villa Seminyak in Seminyak

Where to go in september: alaska.

A bucket-list destination for many, Alaska sees the majority of its visitors—many of them families—in June, July, and August. Wait until school is back in session and plan a visit in September. The weather is pleasant, and the still-long days are perfect for exploring the fall foliage in Denali National Park, fishing for salmon, and even trying to spot the aurora borealis.

Additional Suggestions: Argentina, for hiking in the spring sunshine; Nova Scotia, for off-peak crowds and fresh lobster.

Check Prices for Aurora Denali Lodge in Healy

Where to go in october: italy.

Italy is mobbed with tourists throughout the year, but October is considered shoulder season, and a visit then means you’ll see slightly smaller crowds than you would in the busy summer months. You’ll also enjoy beautiful fall foliage in places like Tuscany, and cool weather on the beaches along the Amalfi Coast. Alba’s International White Truffle Fair starts in October—visit to sample the aromatic tuber and other delicacies, including wine.

Additional Suggestions: South Korea, for pleasant temperatures and colorful fall foliage; Greece, for moderate weather and smaller crowds.

Check Prices for Hotel Milu in Florence

Where to go in november: vietnam.

November is an ideal time to visit both the northern and southern parts of Vietnam. You’ll find history and culture in the north, and plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach in the south.

Additional Suggestions: Japan, for colorful fall foliage; Mexico, for Day of the Dead celebrations.

Check Prices for Christina's – Hotel & Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City

Where to go in december: germany.

Yes, it’s cliche, but you have to visit Germany in December at least once in your lifetime. There’s a reason so many countries mimic its famed Christmas markets ( weihnachtsmarkts ). The pop-up events feature beautiful light displays, music, handmade gifts, and mulled wine to sip as you shop. Most German cities offer markets, but the mother of them all is Nuremberg’s—one of the country’s oldest.

Additional Suggestions: Austria, for its own impressive holiday markets; the U.S. Virgin Islands, for prime weather and water sports; New York City , for holiday displays and ice skating at Rockefeller Center.

Check Prices for Hotel FIVE in Nuremberg

What to pack, older women’s spring outfit for travel, shop the look.

Slide Sandal

Infinity Bracelet

Top Handle Bag

Men’s springy/wintery outfit for a new location.

Oxford Shirt

Water Resistant Jacket

Sauvage by Christian Dior

More from smartertravel:.

• Europe in the Winter Off-Season: Where and Why You Should Go
• The Best Places to Travel This Year
• The Cheapest Places to Fly Right Now

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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All of Best in Travel 2024

A month-by-month travel guide to inspire your next trip

Recently updated on August 1st, 2023 at 03:45 pm

The world may be your oyster – but that can be a little overwhelming! If you’re wondering where are the best places to visit each month, we’ve got you covered. From different seasons to the best events and festivals, read our month-by-month travel guide to inspire your next trip. 

Best places to visit in January

Patagonia is one of the world’s top bucket list destinations and the summer season from December to February is the best time to go. You’ll get the warmest and driest weather, perfect for hiking those stunning trails.

RELATED CONTENT: 6 things you should tick off your bucket list when visiting Patagonia

South Africa

The summer season (December to February) is one of the best times to go to South Africa. You’ll get sunny warm days perfect for lounging at the beach or going wine tasting in the vineyards, or taking a cable car to Table Mountain in Cape Town.

RELATED CONTENT: 10 food experiences from around the world that should be on your 2022 bucket list

January is winter in Russia which sounds like a very cold adventure – but hear us out! You’ll actually get to extend your Christmas holiday by visiting Russia in January as the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on the 7th of January. The cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg look gorgeous covered in snow and twinkling lights and there’s plenty of festive activities.

RELATED CONTENT: Five Reasons You Should Visit Russia in Winter

Costa Rica has a range of different climates so it’s important to time your trip well. According to our month-by-month travel guide, January ticks all the right boxes. You’ll get warm weather, lots of sunshine, and plenty of chances to spot the famous wildlife.

GET INSPIRED BY: Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes

Best places to visit in February

The dry season is the perfect time to visit Thailand. You’ll get warm, dry days that are perfect for exploring those beautiful islands and beaches. Plus, you’ll miss the Christmas holiday crowds. In fact, any country in Southeast Asia like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore are great options for a sunny holiday in February. You’ll also get to experience the amazing festivities of Tet New Year in Vietnam and the Chinese New Year celebrations across the continent.

RELATED CONTENT: 8 travel trends that experts predict will actually happen in 2022

The nights can be chilly and the daytime temperatures are cooler, but it’s perfect weather for cruising the Nile and exploring the ancient ruins from Cairo to Luxor and beyond.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Egypt

Paris, France

February is a cold snowy month in Paris, but you’ll soon warm up with Valentine’s Day festivities! There’s a special atmosphere and lots of romantic events in Paris during Valentine’s Day… And what better way to celebrate than with a trip to the City of Love.

GET INSPIRED BY: Paris Explorer

Other big events in February

Our month-by-month travel guide has discovered so many incredible festivals and events in February across the world. There’s the iconic Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and the famous Carnival in Venice. You could also head to New Orleans for the legendary Mardis Gras in New Orleans.

RELATED CONTENT: 7 Colourful Festivals Around the World

Best places to visit in March

Scandinavia.

One of the top reasons to visit Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden and Denmark is to see the dancing Northern Lights. While the best period to witness this phenomenon is from early September to early April, we think March is a great month. You’ll get better weather than the freezing chill of the winter months, with lots of sunny days. In some areas, you can enjoy summer activities like hiking, and in others, you can still enjoy winter activities like skiing. Take your pick!

GET INSPIRED BY: Scandinavian Northern Lights

The weather is much milder in March, perfect for exploring the desert and archaeological treasures like Petra. You’ll also get to see colourful wildflowers blooming.

GET INSPIRED BY: Jordan Experience

Colombia is perfect in March with amazing weather for beach days and water sports. You’ll also skip the high season of December to February, so you’ll get cheaper rates and fewer crowds. Win-win!

Best places to visit in April

The netherlands.

If you want to see the beautiful tulips of the Netherlands, April is your best bet! While the famous Keukenhof Gardens open in March, the weather doesn’t warm up properly until April. You’ll also get to experience the Amsterdam Tulip Festival in April.

RELATED CONTENT: 11 of the best destinations to visit for Springtime in Europe 2021

New Zealand

April falls in autumn in New Zealand and it’s the best time to visit the wine-growing regions. You’ll see the trees and vineyards transform into a blaze of orange, red and gold. While the nights are chilly, the days are usually mild and sunny.

RELATED CONTENT: ​​ 11 sustainable destinations to visit in 2022

Japan’s cherry blossom season is one of the most popular bucket list trips in the world. The gorgeous cherry blossoms bloom from the end of March to the first half of April, but according to our month-by-month travel guide, this can change every year. So keep an eye on the forecasts! 

GET INSPIRED BY: Classic Japan

Spring arrives in Morocco in April meaning pleasant temperatures and blossoming almond and cherry trees. You can also visit the Sahara Desert in April with milder temperatures.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Morocco

April is the perfect time for a trip to the Caribbean, with countries like Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico offering up delightful sunny weather.

Best places to visit in May

May falls between the rainy season which ends in April and the busy season which starts in June… so it’s the perfect autumn month to explore Peru with milder weather and fewer crowds. 

RELATED CONTENT: The most amazing once-in-a-lifetime trips put on your bucket list

Our month-by-month travel guide picks May as the prime time to go hiking in the Himalayas of Nepal. While it’s one of the busiest months it’s for good reason as the weather and scenery are at their best.

GET INSPIRED BY: Nepal Adventure

Dreaming of seeing the mighty Victoria Falls that spread across Zimbabwe and Zambia? Visit in May when the Zambezi River is in flood and the Victoria Falls are at their strongest and most jaw-dropping. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Victoria Falls Experience

Spain and Portugal

May in Spain and Portugal is simply gorgeous. You’ll get long sunny days without the scorching summer heat. Plus, you’ll get more of the beaches to yourself without the summer crowds.

GET INSPIRED BY: Treasures of Spain and Portugal

If you don’t want the sweltering heat of summer or the freezing chill of winter, head to China in the spring month of May. You’ll get comfortable weather as you walk the Great Wall or explore Beijing.

RELATED CONTENT: 13 of the most remarkable experiences you can enjoy when you tour with Trafalgar

Best places to visit in June

The mediterranean.

June is a fabulous time to visit the Mediterranean. Head to any Mediterranean coastline in Greece, Italy, France, Croatia, Turkey, Spain, Albania, and Bosnia and you’ll be rewarded with warm waters, long sunny days, and fewer crowds than July and August.

GET INSPIRED BY: Greek Island Hopper

If you’ve always dreamed of witnessing the Great Migration from Tanzania to Kenya, this is the month to do it. The wildebeest begin their annual migration any time from late April to early June. It’s also a great time to head to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.

RELATED CONTENT: 16 Trafalgar trips you can take to experience the best of the world’s wildlife

The temperatures are warming up across North America in June and you’ll have the perfect weather for outdoor adventures and festivals in the cities. It’s also a great time to visit the iconic national parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone before the weather really heats up and the summer crowds arrive. You’ll also get to see newborn animals and breathtaking scenery and across the parks.

RELATED CONTENT: 16 stunning mountains and waterfalls you have to visit in the US

June in Iceland is all about the midnight sun. You’ll get to witness the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year when the sun barely sets at all. It’s a surreal experience and it’s also a great time for hiking and sightseeing. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Iceland Including the Blue Lagoon

Best places to visit in July

Our month-by-month travel guide picks Kenya’s Maasai Mara as the place to be in July since the Greatest Show on Earth – the Great Migration – happens during this month. Millions of wildebeests make the journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya around July and stay until October when they make the return journey. It’s also a great time to go on safari to spot animals in national parks across the country.

RELATED CONTENT: The dream bucket list destinations that are open to travellers for 2022 trips

The whole of Europe is at its peak in July from France to Spain, Germany to Switzerland, Croatia to Romania. Wherever you go, the weather will be warm and there will be lots of summer festivals and events. Just be warned that it’s also one of the busiest tourist months.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to go to escape the cold every month of the year

While most of Southeast Asia is in the middle of the monsoon season in July, Indonesia is enjoying its dry, sunny season. Take advantage of the blue skies and explore these beautiful islands!

Best places to visit in August

Hawaii has almost year-round warm weather but it’s at its best in the driest and hottest month of August. Perfect for snorkelling, swimming and hiking!

RELATED CONTENT: Thinking about a trip to Hawaii? These are the best times of the year to go

Visit Scotland in August and you’ll get to witness the iconic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in the same month! It’s also a great time to visit the Scottish Highlands with warmer, drier weather. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Scotland

August marks the dry season in Namibia when temperatures are warm and rainfall is low. It’s also the best time for wildlife viewing, but it is the start of peak season so plan ahead.

GET INSPIRED BY: Namibia Adventure

Best places to visit in September

Italy is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and while it can be visited all year round, our month-by-month travel guide picks September as one of the best months. You’ll avoid the huge summer crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather in the spring season.

GET INSPIRED BY: Italy Bellissmo

The Rocky Mountains in Canada are one of the most beautiful places on Earth and September is one of the best months to experience it. The weather will be just right – not too cold and not too hot. The stunning autumn leaves are starting to bloom at the end of the month. Plus, it’s the start of the shoulder season so prices are lower and there are fewer tourists.

RELATED CONTENT: ​​ 7 unforgettable experiences you can only have on a Trafalgar trip

This gorgeous little country sits on the edge of Europe – and it’s just perfect in September with spring blooms and milder weather. It’s the best month for hiking the beautiful mountain trails and you’ll also miss the busier summer season.

RELATED CONTENT: 9 trending destinations you should be earmarking for your 2022 travels

Best places to visit in October

New england, usa.

Dreaming of fall colours? You can’t go past the stunning autumn displays in New England. This northeastern region of the USA covers the states of Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine and Rhode Island. The leaf-peeping season arrives in early October and you’re sure to see some truly gorgeous fall scenery.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to travel in autumn to experience this most amazing season

October in Germany is all about the aptly named Oktoberfest. Millions of people attend the iconic beer festival in Munich every year. You can indulge in local beer and traditional Bavarian food, wear traditional outfits and listen to folk music. Head out of the cities and you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous autumn scenery and cool weather.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Germany and Austria

The world-famous Dia de Los Muertos festival is held on October 31st every year – and you can’t miss seeing the real deal in Mexico. Oaxaca in southern Mexico is a great place to see it as the temperatures are warm and they throw the most colourful and chaotic celebrations of all!

RELATED CONTENT: These are the 11 best European cities to celebrate Halloween in

If you’re looking for the best Halloween celebrations, you can’t go past the birthplace of Halloween – Ireland. The city of Derry is one of the best places to go for an unforgettable Halloween.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Ireland

Best places to visit in November

Argentina is just beautiful in November. Spring has well and truly sprung by the middle of the month, with lavender covering the parks and jacaranda trees blooming across Buenos Aires. The temperature is also nice and mild before the heat of summer arrives.

RELATED CONTENT: Why you should start planning your Christmas 2022 vacation now

While Turkey is famed as a summer beach destination, our month-by-month travel guide picks November as a great time to visit. You’ll still get mild autumn temperatures and lots of sun, but you’ll avoid both the summer and winter high seasons, meaning lower prices and fewer tourists.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Turkey

While India is a massive country with lots of different climates, November might just be the best month across the whole country. You’ll miss the rainy season plus you’ll avoid the heat and high season that starts in December. You might even get to witness Diwali (although the date changes every year). 

RELATED CONTENT: Why November is the perfect time of year to visit India

Best places to visit in December

There are few better places to spend the magical Christmas month than Europe. Head to the Alps across Switzerland and France for world-class skiing and winter wonderland magic. Or check out the magical Christmas markets from Germany to France to the UK.

GET INSPIRED BY: Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

December is the first month of summer in Australia so you can enjoy your holiday season in warm, sunny weather. Spend your Christmas at the beach and head to Sydney for New Year’s Eve to see the iconic fireworks display.

RELATED CONTENT: The 8 best destinations to travel to in Europe this December

With almost zero rain and warm temperatures averaging around 26°C, there are few better months to visit Dubai. You’ll experience an extravagant Christmas with glittering shopping malls, perfect beaches, and high-end restaurants. Plus you can see the record-breaking fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.

What is your favourite month to travel? Let us know in the comments below!

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Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

The Best Countries to Visit (Our 20 Favorite Countries Ranked)

By Eric Stoen on May 13, 2020 • Last Updated March 1, 2024 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Rating Every Country We’ve Traveled To

During the COVID-19 shutdown we were at home and looking for ways to stay entertained, so I asked my wife and kids to rate every country they’ve been to from 1 to 10. I added in my votes and ranked every country that had at least two votes. The goal: come up with a list of the best countries to visit, at least from our experience.

Everyone could vote based on any criteria. In general the ratings were consistent from person to person, but there were some definite outliers – places where one person remembered things differently than the others. In a family of five, you can’t always keep everyone happy. We had some fun discussions when people disagreed!

Our Top 20 Countries (the 20 Best Countries to Visit)

In order to give you family travel ideas, here are our top 20 countries to travel to. Keep in mind that at the time we created this list our girls were 10 and 14 and our son was 12, and they had been to 62 countries. We split our travels between cities and nature and add in frequent cultural activities and cooking classes. We don’t go to a lot of museums or concentrate on history. Likewise we don’t spend full days at the beach or shopping.

Five continents are represented in our top 20. Australia came in at number 21, and our top African country is the Seychelles at 29.

Note that I’m including the average score after every destination.

20. The Netherlands (7.3)

Favorite Places: Amsterdam, the Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields throughout the country in the spring.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Amsterdam is usually a 1-2 day layover for us. We love the city but I’ve never written about it.

19. Chile (7.4)

Favorite Places: Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Easter Island. Santiago is fun for a day or two as well.

Relevant Blog Posts: Spring Break in Patagonia | Chile’s Atacama Desert with Kids | Easter Island with a 6-Year-Old

15 (tie). Antarctica (7.5)

Favorite Places: Antarctica isn’t, strictly speaking, a country, but it’s an amazing place to visit with or without kids. We’ve taken our kids at 8 and 12 and loved everything about it.

Relevant Blog Posts: Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old ; Adventures By Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition ; An Antarctica Packing List

15 (tie). Indonesia (7.5)

Favorite Places: Indonesia is mainly about Bali for us, since my daughters love the island, but Borobudur is amazing as well. We want to keep exploring.

Relevant Blog Posts: Bali with Kids | How to Visit Borobudur

15 (tie). Norway (7.5)

Favorite Places: We love Oslo and Bergen, especially in the summer, and the Norway in a Nutshell tour is a great way to travel between them. The fjords are gorgeous as well, and Tromsø in the arctic circle is a good way to experience the midnight sun.

Relevant Blog Post: Oslo with Kids . Most of my Norwegian travels were pre-kids and I haven’t written about them.

15 (tie). Sweden (7.5)

Favorite Places: Stockholm and Gothenburg are both great cities to explore for a few days, but we love the coastal towns and the forests of Central Sweden.

Relevant Blog Posts: Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden | The Icebug Xperience West Coast Trail

14. Turkey (7.6)

Favorite Places: Istanbul and Cappadocia. And we loved our day on a gulet near Bodrum.

Relevant Blog Posts: Istanbul with Kids | An Amazing Trip to Cappadocia with Kids | Bodrum with Kids

13. Switzerland (7.7)

Favorite Places: My wife and I have traveled all over Switzerland pre-marriage and loved all of the small towns – places like Interlaken, Crans-Montana and Luzern – and I recently hiked and biked from Engelberg to Interlaken. With the kids we’ve only explored Zurich on layovers and Lake Lugano on a day trip from Como. Definitely one of the best countries to visit – we just need to plan more Swiss trips with the kids.

Relevant Blog Post: Hiking in Switzerland: Engelberg to Interlaken

12. The Maldives (7.8)

Favorite Places: Six Senses Laamu in the Laamu Atoll.

Relevant Blog Posts: Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere | A Return to Paradise

11. Canada (7.9)

Favorite Places: Vancouver, Banff and Winnipeg and the surrounding areas. Victoria on Vancouver Island is fun as well.

Relevant Blog Post: Manitoba, Canada with Kids . All of our other Canada trips were before I started writing about our travels.

10. Croatia (8.0)

Favorite Places: Zagreb and Plitvice National Park. We still need to get to Krka National Park and Dubrovnik.

Relevant Blog Posts: Croatia With Kids: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes

9. Brazil (8.3)

Favorite Places: The Amazon Rainforest and the Rio Negro. Manaus is worth a day or two as well. We haven’t been to Rio yet.

Relevant Blog Posts: The Amazon Rainforest with Kids: A Magical (Unplugged) Expedition

7 (tie). Laos (8.5)

Favorite Places: We’ve only been to Luang Prabang and loved it. We need to explore the rest of the country.

Relevant Blog Post: Asia with Kids: A Crazy Three-Week, Six-Country Itinerary

7 (tie). Japan (8.5)

Favorite Places: Tokyo, Kyoto, Naoshima Island and Hiroshima

Relevant Blog Posts: Kyoto to Hiroshima, a 10-Day Journey | 10 Places Not to Miss in Tokyo | Tokyo with Kids Made Easy | Kyoto with Kids | Hokkaido: Adventure in Northern Japan

6. Portugal (8.7)

Favorite Places: Lisbon, Cascais and Sintra. Still haven’t visited Porto or the Douro Valley.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Definitely one of the best countries to travel to, but our trips have largely been focused around weddings.

5. New Zealand (8.8)

Favorite Places: The South Island. We’ve explored it far more than the North Island, even though we’ve visited Auckland several times.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. We need to go back and see more, and I’ll write about it next time!

3 (tie). Faroe Islands (9.0)

Favorite Places: Torshavn, Tjørnuvik, Saksun, Gjógv, Mykines

Relevant Blog Post: An Amazing Week in the Faroe Islands (with Kids)

3 (tie). France (9.0)

Favorite Places: Paris, Provence

Relevant Blog Posts: The Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids | Tips for Visiting Paris on a Budget | 10 Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Paris

2. Italy (9.1)

Favorite Places: Florence, the Dolomites, Venice, Cortona, Cinque Terre, Rome, Lake Como, Ravenna, San Gimignano

Relevant Blog Posts: Florence with Kids: What to Do and Where to Stay | Our Favorite Restaurants in Florence | How to Visit Cinque Terre | Positano Italy (and the Amalfi Coast) | Why You Should Never Do a Day Trip to Florence or Rome | A Week in Florence without Kids | A Perfect Trip to Florence with Kids | Venice in High Season with Kids | Italy Unplugged: A Week in Emilia Romagna | Hiking the Via Francigena Through Tuscany | Kid-Friendly Adventure in Trentino’s Stunning Val di Fassa | Adventures with Kids in the Dolomites: Trentino’s Val di Fiemme | Two Weeks on Lake Como with Kids | A Villa in Tuscany for a Month

1. Greece (9.8)

Favorite Places: Naxos, Paros, Santorini (or pretty much any Greek island in the summer, unless it sees a lot of cruise ships)

Relevant Blog Posts: Naxos Greece: Our Favorite Island | Three Weeks on the Greek Island of Naxos with Kids | A Day Trip from Naxos to Santorini | Paros Greece with Kids

The Best Countries to Visit: Your Turn

What are the best countries to visit from your family’s experience? Do you agree/disagree with our ranking? Would love to hear your thoughts on the best countries to travel to in the comments below.

And I should note that a lot of people are finding this post when Googling “coolest countries to visit”. So I did a separate post on the coolest countries .

Travel Insurance

We never used to travel with travel health coverage, or even trip cancellation insurance, but we regretted that when my wife broke her knee traveling recently. I write about it here . I highly recommend purchasing insurance – either on an annual basis if you travel a lot, or for individual trips. We went with G1G based on price and what they offer.

More from Travel Babbo

May 14, 2020 at 11:13 am

This is such an inspiring list! I can’t wait to do some rankings with the kids. Our plans to spend a month in Greece this summer (inspired by your article on Naxos) have been derailed, but seeing it as number one on your list validates our decision to reschedule it as our long trip next summer.

May 14, 2020 at 11:16 am

Our June Naxos plans fell through, but we’re still optimistic about August – if they’ll let Americans in and if the airlines are flying, we’ll be there.

May 16, 2020 at 12:01 am

You have been to some amazing places. Interesting that Europe has scored so highly with all the family.

May 18, 2020 at 8:00 am

We’ve traveled to Europe the most, so maybe there’s a sense of familiarity and comfort, especially for the kids? If I was doing my own ranking there are a lot of non-European countries that would be in the top 20, including Ecuador, India and Tanzania.

November 15, 2020 at 9:06 am

Ecuador is the only country my kids have traveled to and we loved it!

May 17, 2020 at 5:38 pm

No. 1. Jordan. We all had a magnificent time there. Small Country so easy to see everything but every day was something different and a different period of history.

2. Grand Cayman. 7 mile beach is just gorgeous. Easy to get to and clean and friendly.

We had a disaster of a trip to Italy but I’d go back to Venice in a heartbeat.

May 18, 2020 at 7:57 am

I’ve only spent one day in Jordan, in Petra, but it’s at the top of my list to return to.

We haven’t been to Grand Cayman, simply because the Caribbean can be a hassle to reach from California. It’s easier to get to Fiji than Grand Cayman. But I’ll add it to our list!

May 22, 2020 at 2:37 pm

Great list, and so many places I need to visit! I’ll add the Czech Republic, in particular Prague, to the discussion. I love Prague for all of its magical architecture and the ability to walk everywhere. And, so many great little outdoor cafes either right in the center of town or along the canal.

May 22, 2020 at 2:40 pm

Thanks Megan! The Czech Republic actually finished towards the bottom of our list, but for the kids at least that was based solely on one August visit when Prague was very crowded. I think they would like it better if we were to return in the spring or fall. It’s an amazing city, just not fun with too many people. And I want to explore a lot more of the country as well.

May 23, 2020 at 4:58 pm

I absolutely love reading your blogs and post. Thank you. Though my kids are older now, we did go ‘round the world’ with them, with partners and a grandson in 2018. Tokyo to Porto then a week on a small (36 passengers) boat from Dubrovnik to Split, on to BC in Canada then a relax in Santa Monica before home. Every place held something special and was so different to the next. I would say the highlight for us all was Canada- we stayed in a small town called Smithers and the the younger ones did extreme mountain bike riding, fishing, hiking, shooting at the gun range and drives to nearby First Nation sites. Unbelievable. I loved it so much I went back in 2019 and did 5 weeks Canada/Alaska which was out of this world.

May 25, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Thanks Joanne! Your trip sounds amazing – a lot of our favorite places. We still haven’t been to Porto though. And we would love to explore Canada more. I’ll add Smithers to our list.

May 29, 2020 at 3:54 am

Great places.

How wonderful for the children. We are slow budget family travellers and often find ourselves saying that we want our kids to have places to discover on their own. Travelling as a family is truly wonderful and we love it. Maybe it will be the highlight of our lives as parents. Yet, as they get older we find ourselves thinking more of solo or exchange trips for them alone that doesn’t include us plus trips for just the two of us that don’t include them. Like much of parenting it is a tough call…

June 20, 2020 at 12:31 am

Pretty amazed that Greece beat out Italy (and by a large margin) given your love of Florence. What happened to Spain?

June 20, 2020 at 2:59 pm

Spain is roughly halfway down our list. The kids have only been 3 times, and only for a day or two each time.

September 5, 2020 at 10:03 am

You have missed cape Town as other interesting place to visit.

September 6, 2020 at 7:30 pm

1) I love Cape Town. 2) Cape Town is not a country. 3) We have not taken our kids to South Africa so it was not included in our voting.

June 1, 2023 at 12:13 pm

So far, South Africa, Israel and Switzerland have been my favs. Israel is so impactful, obviously, for different reasons. Costa Rica is pretty nice. The U.S. is up there if you think in terms of Kawaii, Hawaii and parts of CA, OR, WA. Austria was great. England was was as well. France nice, but overall, I would put South Africa at the top of the list of all the places we have visited.

November 28, 2020 at 9:26 am

Pointers for Switzerland travel from US for perhaps one full week in the country? Note: We are rather healthy but in our late 60’s. Love your blog and robust sense of adventure and open minds regarding diverse cultures!

November 29, 2020 at 2:26 pm

Hi Scott. I asked my friend Kate in Zurich for suggestions, since she knows Switzerland far better than I do.

Her thoughts: For a week in Switzerland I would suggest taking the train as it’s so easy, safe, and convenient. Plus, you get to see the Swiss landscapes the whole time. Spend a day exploring old town Zürich, the next day take the train to Luzern and explore it overnight. The rest of the week take the train to Lauterbrunnen and spend a few days exploring the beautiful hiking and waterfalls, sleeping in either Wengen, Grindelwald, or Mürren. If there’s extra time, visit Rhinefalls and the cute historic town of Stein am Rhine.

December 4, 2020 at 9:28 am

Have you visited mexico? Was expecting mexico on the list…..I’ve never been there though

December 4, 2020 at 9:43 am

Mexico was halfway down our list. We love San Miguel de Allende, I’m a huge fan of Mexico City, and my wife has a lot of family history in Mexico. But we’ve spent too much time in touristy, less-interesting areas like Los Cabos, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. We need to explore more of real Mexico.

June 1, 2021 at 7:25 am

You should visit Oaxaca and Chiapas…..amazing places

June 1, 2021 at 7:58 am

Of course! On our list.

January 27, 2021 at 4:27 pm

I’ve enjoyed perusing your lists! Since the majority of us aren’t doing much travel these days, our travel group likes to reminisce about our past travel adventures. You’ve done a country list and city list. Next up, consider a favorite experience/activity while traveling. Here’s our top 10 experiences: 1) Safari in the Serengeti & Ngorogoro Crater 2) Antarctica cruise 3) Amazon River cruise and live aboard 4) Diving and snorkeling in Palawan, Philippines 5) Live aboard and diving on the Great Barrier Reef 6) Great White Shark cage diving in Cape Town 7) Visiting Skellig Michael Island in Ireland 8) Southern Alps plane tour in New Zealand 9) Ziplining in Costa Rica 10) Spending the night in a treehouse in Sri Lanka

I would love to hear what you and your family’s top experiences have been. Gives others great ideas for future travel too.

Aloha, Bonnie

January 27, 2021 at 4:55 pm

Thanks Bonnie! I did a post back in 2016 with our favorite activities ( https://travelbabbo.com/ten-cool-kid-friendly-activities/ ) but it could definitely be time to update that with more recent things. I was thinking about having the kids rate hotels too.

May 24, 2021 at 12:21 pm

I have a soon to be 7yo & 2yo, we are trying to decide on where to go next year as a little family holiday and I am determined to take us somewhere that is more than just playing by the pool and beach. This list has given me more destinations to add to the TTT list. I am stuck between Croatia and Naxos in Greece to start off with as they both look amazing!

May 24, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great! Both Croatia and Greece would make excellent destinations. Naxos will definitely have more beach/pool time, Croatia would be a little more culture and nature.

May 24, 2021 at 6:47 pm

My first thought is, will you adopt me. WOW your kids are lucky and I am sure so well educated. I was happy to see Portugal on your list. A kinda unknown, great value hidden treasure of Europe. And I gotta say, I love the southern coast of Spain. Your list was really fun to read and some never entered my mind and to be honest, one I have to look up as I have no idea where it is. I am excited to see what is coming from you and your family as being retired, it is time to get back to traveling. If you could note somewhere how the traveling would be for senior single female it would be great. Many years ago, I traveled to Isreal and Greece alone (not a senior back then), but I loved it.

May 25, 2021 at 9:40 am

Thanks Tracy! I’m glad you’re inspired! And I definitely need to explore southern Spain more.

I am unable to write about travel from a senior single female perspective as I am none of those, and I only blog from personal experience. There are so many good travel blogs though – if you search around you should be able to find someone who matches you and your travel style perfectly.

June 5, 2021 at 9:03 am

I vote for this location as NUMBER ONE ! ! Without a doubt ……

The Amalfi coast in Italy ! ! ! the most beautiful… people, hotels, food views, …… on and on ! ! !

June 16, 2021 at 8:44 am

Great list! Just a note, it’s Vancouver Island in Canada, not Victoria Island 🙂

June 16, 2021 at 10:37 am

Thank you so much! Change made!

July 23, 2021 at 9:36 am

Nice Post Eric! I am afraid to travel alone and you travel with kids. Hats off to you. Maybe some day I will also travel like you. Great Post Man.

Please visit India some day.

July 23, 2021 at 9:41 am

I have visited India many times, both with and without kids. One of my favorite countries!

February 7, 2022 at 8:44 am

Taiwan is definitely the best. I bet the only reason it’s not here is because they didn’t go. I recommend it!

February 7, 2022 at 9:13 am

We’ve been to Taiwan – you could have done a search for Taiwan on this website, or gone to my About Me page , to verify that. It finished roughly halfway down our rankings. Would love to return.

March 3, 2022 at 8:49 am

Love this list. Having traveled and lived abroad we are excited to return to travel overseas soon with our 9-year old daughter. Having lived in Estonia for four years, I highly recommend it. Very found memories of the people, land and sauna culture as well as the best intact historic city IMHO in Europe without the crowds. Even more memorable at Christmas time as the best uncrowded Christmas market we’ve been to. (birthplace of the Christmas tree as well as Riga, Latvia’s claim to fame). Thanks for your blog.

March 3, 2022 at 12:03 pm

I love Estonia! I’ve traveled around Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania several times, but before the kids were born. Would love to take them.

August 21, 2022 at 10:29 pm

Great list. Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Turkey are my favorites in Europe. Jordan and Israel were also fascinating.

Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico and Ecuador in the Americas.

Botswana, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya in Africa.

Australia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Palau and Japan in Asia/Oceania.

Still high on bucket list: New Zealand, Morocco, Egypt, Portugal, Croatia and Peru. So many places. So little time.

November 7, 2022 at 9:34 pm

“Sad that a beautiful country like INDIA is not in the list” . Especially when Taj Mahal is in seven wonders of world. Rajasthan mighty forts and rich culture. Gold beaches of Goa . Keralas back waters and greenery, Tibet and Kashmir mountains . Thousands of years old temples in Tamilnadu.

November 8, 2022 at 9:44 am

This is a very strange comment. Have you not looked through my website? Have you seen all of the India photos I’ve posted to Instagram? This specific post is based on family voting, and only one of my kids has been to India. But India, and Rajasthan in particular, is one of my favorite places in the world and I have said that many, many times.

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The Best Places to Travel in July

By Caitlin Morton

July is one of the busiest months for travel, with most of the Northern Hemisphere entering full summer vacation mode. As much of the world is welcoming tourism (some for the first time since the start of the pandemic), we’re hoping to make our summer vacations really count this year. That’s why our round-up of July destinations is packed with outdoor adventures that are a tad off the radar: think wetland safaris in South America , multi-day hiking trips through central Iceland , and diving tours off the coast of Bonaire. (Don’t worry, we also included a few spas and beach resorts as well.)

We know you’re probably itching for a spectacular holiday as much as we are, so we’ve gathered up a list of places that cover the geographical gamut. Whether you want to make an easy trip to one of the coolest cities in the U.S. (we reveal that answer below) or take multiple flights to reach your final once-in-a-lifetime destination, here are 11 of the best places to travel in July.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is one of the best places in travel in July for one big reason: wildflowers . While you might consider spring to be the best time to see colorful flowers, the park’s northern location in Montana means the blooms reach their peak in July and August. Hike along the Garden Wall Trail to see fields of white beargrass, pink fireweed, and yellow glacier lilies as far as the eye can see.

When you’ve had your fill of hiking (and your phone is full of photos), head back to The Resort at Paws Up , a sprawling, 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana. Their safari-style canvas tents will make you feel like you’re in the Wild West, while locally sourced meals and spa treatments are worthy of a five-star hotel.

June through August mark the dry, winter season in Botswana , which many consider to be the perfect time to visit. Not only are weather conditions at their best (no rain, and lower risk of malaria), but these months offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities as animals tend to stick around watering holes. The country also happens to be one of our favorite safari spots in Africa. While you’re sure to spot wildlife in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or in South Africa’s Kruger, you’ll also be in the company of a couple dozen other jeeps filled with tourists; in Botswana, it feels like it’s only you and nature. 

This year is a particularly exciting time to visit, thanks to the April 2022 reopening of Wilderness Safaris Vumbura Plains , a camp situated in the heart of the Botswana’s wildlife-rich Okavango Delta. Renovated features include brand-new furniture, bigger windows in the suites, locally made artwork, and menus showcasing seasonal ingredients from nearby farms. And, of course, the camp provides plenty of opportunities for adventure: canoe safaris, day and night wilderness drives, hot air balloon rides (from April to September), and scenic helicopter rides.

If you’ve spent any time in Chicago , you probably aren’t surprised that our readers consistently vote it the best city in the United States . And if you haven’t spend time here? We suggest booking trip to the Windy City stat. There are tons of summer activities for both first-time and seasoned visitors, including visiting the beaches along Lake Michigan, taking Chicago River boat tours, watching the fireworks at Navy Pier, and attending festivals like the Southport Art Fest (July 9 to 10) and Lollapalooza (July 28 to 31).

There’s no shortage of great hotels in the city , but do yourself a favor and book a few nights at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago . The hotel recently completed the final phase of a $100 million renovation, which means guests can experience redesigned rooms and suites with extra-large windows overlooking the skyline and Lake Michigan. There are also long-standing hotel amenities like a rooftop lounge (only open in the summer), spa with indoor lap pool, and an excellent Italian restaurant, Torali.

It’s not easy to find an uncrowded beach in Europe during the summer months, but the country of Montenegro is one of your best bets. It takes up less space than Connecticut and has a lower population than Stockholm , but the tiny Balkan nation should not be overlooked—especially since it’s quieter and more untouched than neighbors Croatia and Greece. Beyond the beaches, you can take advantage of the country’s historic Old Towns, UNESCO-protected parks, and lakes begging for a swim.

The country also happens to be home to one of our latest Hot List winners , One&Only Portonovi . Situated on the Adriatic Riviera, this knockout hotel features huge rooms and suites (one even comes with its own 268-bottle wine cellar), Italian restaurants led by Michelin-starred chefs, and a very serious spa where guests can embark on three- to six-day wellness programs overseen by on-site doctors. 

Arati Menon

Hannah Towey

Maya Silver

The Pantanal

Stretching across parts of southeastern Brazil , Paraguay, and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest floodplain and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the entire South American continent (yes, even more than the Amazon). Here you can spot ultra-rare jaguars, crocodiles, monkeys, anacondas, and some 650 species of birds, with the best visibility during the dry season from July to October.

Note that reaching the Pantanal takes a bit of work: You must first fly to São Paulo (a great excuse to stay overnight at the new São Paulo Rosewood ), then fly to the Campo Grande Airport in Mato Grosso, then either drive or take a chartered flight to your lodge. And that lodge should definitely be the upscale Caiman Ecological Reserve , a 204-square-mile refuge known for its luxury villas and local conservation efforts. Between visiting jaguar sanctuaries and horseback riding through the jungle, rest up at the reserve’s hammock garden, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy the starry sky from your private balcony.

Birmingham, Alabama

This summer, Birmingham will serve as the first American host for The World Games (July 7 to 17), an 11-day sporting event featuring 3,600 athletes from more than 100 countries around the world. Hundreds of thousands of spectators are expected to attend the event, watching athletes compete for gold in flag football, wheelchair rugby, kickboxing, tug of war, and dozens of other sports. Tickets are available online , and can be purchased for specific sports or dates.

While you’re in town, be sure to also sample some of Birmingham’s most exciting dining venues. Helen is a contemporary Southern grill helmed by five-time James Beard finalist Rob McDaniel, who cooks up wood-fired meats and starts every meal with warm angel biscuits topped with whipped can syrup butter. A block away, The Essential serves up vegetable-heavy dishes using ingredients from local farmers, homemade pastas, and some of the tastiest desserts in the city.

Only 50 miles from Venezuela, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Since it sits outside the Hurricane Belt—and since its relatively remote location means its never as crowded as other Caribbean islands—there’s not really a bad time to visit; but July is one of the best months to spot animals both above and below sea level. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary on the southern end of the island is home to more than 10,000 flamingos (July marks the tail end of breeding season), which you can spot from the road or nearby Pink Beach. 

But the most beautiful parts of Bonaire can be found just below the surrounding waters. The entire coral reef around the island is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks and seahorses to friendly green turtles. There are 85 dive sites within the park and dozens of tour operators on the island, so there’s really no excuse to stay exclusively on dry land. 

Oaxaca, Mexico

Far from the coastal spring break hotspots of Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, Oaxaca , in south-central Mexico, is one of the most important cultural hubs in the Americas. Explore the region’s craft revolution led by female entrepreneurs, secure a table at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca for traditional dishes and cocktails, then head to the streets for delicious tlayudas and tacos served from food trucks (our favorites for each: Tlayudas La Chinita, and Lechoncito de Oro, respectively). 

An extra special reason to visit in July is the vibrant Guelaguetza Festival, which takes place on the last two Mondays of the month. The festival celebrates the 16 different ethnolinguistic groups of Oaxaca with folk dancing, traditional clothing, mezcal fairs, and concerts.

Philadelphia

If you’re hoping to travel over the Fourth of July, look no further than Philadelphia . (You might as well celebrate America’s birthday in America’s birthplace, right?) The city goes all out for the holiday with its annual Wawa Welcome America festival, which actually begins on June 19 this year to incorporate Juneteenth into its recognition of American independence. The 16-day celebration features dozens of free events across the city, culminating on July 4 with a massive concert (headliners this year are Jason Derulo and Ava Max) on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, followed by fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Even if you aren't in town for the Fourth, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art anyway (which unveiled Frank Gehry-designed galleries in 2021 after a four-year renovation) and check out the Waiting for Tear Gas exhibit. On display until July 17, the installation shows how artists have captured and responded to moments of public protest around the world, with works spanning from 1913 to 2017. Also be sure to book a room at The Filter Club —its views of the fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art are the best in town.

There really is no wrong time to visit Iceland, but we’re particularly fond of chasing the midnight sun during July—the more daylight hours for exploring, the better. The summer months also make certain parts of the country accessible that might not be in the winter, including the 34-mile Laugavegurinn hiking trail in the Central Highlands. The mountain huts and campsites along the trail are only open between late June and early September, giving you a small time window to experience the hot springs, black lava fields, and multicolored mountains along the path.

If the term “mountain hut” makes you cringe a little, fear not: Iceland has some luxury stays that might be more up your alley. The Reykjavik Edition (a Hot List 2022 winner) opened in the nation’s capital last year, featuring custom furniture, local treats in the minibars, and incredible city and harbor views. Meanwhile, Hotel Rangá continues to offer comfortable accommodations and a menu of outdoor excursions for guests, ranging from horseback rides on black-sand beaches to guided tours through volcanic lava tubes.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport comes alive in July, with a trio of big-name festivals keeping locals and tourists busy all month long: The Newport Regatta (July 9 to 10), Newport Folk Festival (July 22 to 24), and the Newport Jazz Festival (July 29 to 31). The city is no stranger to luxe hotels, but we’re particularly excited about the top-to-bottom transformation of The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection , which was unveiled last summer. The 33-room resort, housed in a former mansion, is now even more glamorous with a revived lobby area and restaurants.

Or book a stay at Brenton Hotel , which has a “ Pick Your Pastime ” summer package series that allows guests to experience Newport-esque activities like private cruises, polo matches, golfing, and mansion tours.

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The 20 best holiday destinations in May

By Faith Strickland and Laura Chubb

Can you almost taste it – Summer ’s citrusy zing in May’s creeping warmth and brightening light? May is a perfect time to travel; many holiday destinations are at their peak, and the sense of the upcoming new season is in the air.

Europe will be emerging into summer proper in 2024, everywhere from Tuscan hilltop towns to golden Grecian beaches – and, if you’re sustainably-minded, you can reach most of these dreamy destinations by train . And further afield, corners of Africa , the Caribbean and Canada will peak as well. So why wait a minute longer? It’s high time you hit the road. These are our favourite holiday destinations in May for sun, adventures and sightseeing.

1. Algarve, Portugal

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 18°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Before you dismiss the Algarve – look between the tourist resorts and there is a quieter, more peaceful side to this coast. Not to mention some of the most fantastic beaches in Europe. In May the weather's hotting up but it's not yet too busy. Stay at the wonderful Bela Vista Hotel with an amazing spa on Praia da Rocha; and explore the secluded town of Castro Marim . Yes, the area is synonymous with beach holidays – but venture off the beaten track for quiet hillside retreats set in olive groves, such as Casa Arte, or Fazenda Nova , a quaint country house.

Sustainable travel tip: Portugal has been hit especially hard in our tough economic times, and spending your entire holiday in the Algarve’s seaside resorts doesn’t do much to help. But making time to explore inland hiking routes and family-owned B&Bs isn’t just good for local business, it’s good for your holiday, too. The 185-mile Via Algarviana traverses the region’s hills and rural villages from east to west, with plenty of lovely places to stay along the way (try Casa do Lavrador in Furnazinhas, where breakfast comprises a heavenly spread of homemade preserves, breads and cheeses).

Where to stay: Pine Cliffs Hotel , a restorative retreat stretching across 178 acres with eight swimming pools, is probably bigger than any hotel you’ll have been to before. It’s the kind of place where you can hole up for a week without having to get back in the hot hire car. For grandeur, Bela Vista – a prominent castle-like building on the beach – is stunning. If you're travelling with little ones, Casa Olhão is private villa set up to sleep four (with the option to have a baby bed or cot provided), and has a spacious upstairs kitchen, comfortable outdoor dining terrace and a wonderful rooftop. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Algarve .

2. Sicily, Italy

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

The football at the toe of Italy ’s boot, the Mediterranean’s largest island is a reliably sunny way to kick off an early summer. There’s scalded volcano country and fertile wine land, Greek temples and Roman ruins. You can wander the shady lanes of baroque hill towns such as Ragusa, then stroll sun-soaked plazas in the coastal city of Syracuse. Come May, the countryside blooms, and the water lapping the beaches is warm. Bring your towel with you when you go to lunch in the old fishing village of Porto Palo – Sicily ’s prettiest secluded cove, Capparrina di Mare, is just a little further west.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool fact: you can travel to Sicily by rail, aboard an InterCity train that gets loaded onto a ferry for the seafaring part of the journey. Arrive in Paris via Eurostar, then take the overnight Thello sleeper to Milan. From here, you can catch an InterCity sleeper service to several Sicilian destinations: Messina, Catania, Siracuse or Palermo (choosing Messina means you’ll disembark in time for lunch). Sound complicated? Railbookers can deal with the details.

Where to stay: Time hits differently at the milky-stoned Il San Corrado , amid the olive groves and light-filled courtyards once owned by an Italian prince. Meanwhile opulent marble bathrooms and silky, wallpapered rooms spill onto terraces doused in golden sunlight at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo . If you're trip is inspired by The White Lotus , you can book into the exact hotel – San Domenico Palace on the north-east coast – or the palazzo – Villa Tasca in Palermo – featured in the hit show. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Sicily .

3. Catalonia, Spain

Temperature in May: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

There’s more to Catalonia than Barcelona – though May is an excellent time to explore the provincial capital, with hot days, clear skies and fewer folks ahead of the summer squeeze. Further north, Girona ’s old quarter is medieval enough to have starred in Game of Thrones . Plus, it’s the site of the nation’s greatest dining experience: El Celler De Can Roca hasn’t been hailed the world’s best restaurant twice by chance. Then head down to the Costa Brava, not the resort-y part, but the section where stone-cut towns such as Peratallada and Pals pack honey-hued charm, and beach-side Begur’s Cuban-style mansions house gorgeous, independent hotels. From here, it’s a short, winding drive to Aiguablava, this Costa’s most perfect patch of sand, in a Caribbean-blue bay. In May, you might just find a vacancy, before it feels like the most coveted sunbathing spot in Spain .

Sustainable travel tip: You can travel from London to Barcelona and Girona by train within a day. Once you’ve arrived in Paris on the Eurostar, board a high-speed TGV Duplex for Barcelona (about 7.5 hours) or Girona (seven hours).

Where to stay: Hotel Nord 1901 places you in prime position for seeing the sights, just a five-minute walk away from the cathedral. Or, if you wish to be amongst it all, Barcelona's hottest hotel The Hoxton Poblenou is a great option for exploring a new part of the city.

Temperature in May: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Tucked away between Sicily and Tunisia, Malta has a delicious mix of European and African culture while fiercely retaining its own identity. The tiny archipelago (including Gozo) starts to warm up by May, meaning days can be spent bronzing on sandy beaches in hidden coves, swimming in turquoise lagoons, or exploring ancient ruins and quaint fishing villages. If you're a little short on time, head to Europe's smallest capital city, Valletta , for a long weekend. Maltese food is a delight, with strong Mediterranean influences which produce dishes such as pistachio cannoli or honey-glazed rabbit. There's also wine bars hidden in twisty-turny side streets and a city so antiquated you feel as though you're in a museum. All this and it's right beside the sea.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of minutes’ walk from Valetta’s Grand Harbour, boutique hotel Locanda La Gelsomina hasn’t just sensitively restored a 500-year-old traditional Maltese building. The family-run hideaway also takes steps to reduce the not-insignificant impact of tourism on this small island, making use of solar-powered heating and rainwater collection.

Where to stay: Domus Zamittello , doubles from about £110, a restored baroque masterpiece by the bombed-out opera house, with painted coffered ceilings. Ursula Street is a favourite balconied address to walk down in Valletta, with several small palazzo hotels; try 66 Saint Paul’s to soak it all in.

5. Munich, Germany

Temperature in May: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Can’t wait until autumn to pull on the lederhosen? May in Munich brings Springfest (or Fruhlingfest), Oktoberfest’s little sister. Expect the same risky mix of fairground rides and beer-filled steins, but smaller and less lairy crowds. The city has its own version of hygge: ‘Gemütlichkeit’. Soak it up in one of the many twinkly pub gardens, or under the vaulted ceiling of a beer cellar. Enough hops? The sun is shining on river surfers riding the Eisbach wave in the Englischen Garten – a year-round swell best left to pros. It might just be warm enough for the park’s nude section to fill up, too; this is Germany , after all.

Sustainable travel tip: Travelling from England to Munich by train is easy and fast. After arriving in Paris on the Eurostar, catch a TGV Duplex train direct to Munich, or via Stuttgart. Journey time from Paris is about six hours.

Where to stay: Housed in an early 20th-century building, with manor-house interiors (frescoes and hunting images), Hotel Excelsior exudes rustic elegance. It has 113 rooms decorated in soft pastels. The stately Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski was built in 1858 near the Bavarian State Opera in the Old Town as a symbol of modernity: now, the lobby retains its old-world glamour with wood-panelled walls and an incredible stained-glass ceiling.

6. The Scottish Highlands

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 7°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

The Scottish Highlands are insanely beautiful year-round but in May they burst into life. The wildflowers and rhododendrons are brightfully blooming and the midges have not yet arrived to spoil the fun. There's something gloriously untamed and forgotten about The Highlands – wonderfully grand country estates such as Ardtornish are still the norm, with reams of lochs and lakes for fishing or acres of land for tramping. There's an abundance of romantic hidey-holes to forget about the rest of the world; and if you're finding May still a little chilly, a trip to a whisky distillery will soon warm you up. All this, so tantalisingly close to home.

Sustainable travel tip: Spend a night on the Caledonian Sleeper train and wake up in either outdoor adventure resort Aviemore, or the capital city of the Highlands, Inverness.

Where to stay: Glengorm Castle , a Brontë-esque pile of harmonious turrets and towers on the north coast of Mull, five miles from Tobermory, with guest cottages, flats and B&B rooms that are tweedy, toiley perfection. For a private stay, there are some incredible Airbns in this region. We love the look of this smart airship-turned-smart cabin bolthole that overlooks the Sound of Mull.

7. Brighton, United Kingdom

Temperature in May: 14°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour by train Time difference: GMT +0

Kinky and quirky. Bohemian and burlesque. Brighton invented Britain’s seaside scene long before Margate started luring London creatives from their concrete cocoons. It’s still our coolest beach town – for proof, come in May. That’s when the Great Escape new music festival hits: what The Times calls Britain’s answer to SXSW, and Steve Lamacq claims is the music world’s Cannes. Expect a studiously obscure line-up you’re definitely not hip enough to have heard of (sample bands: Pyschedelic Porn Crumpets; Tropical F*** Storm). Also on in May is Brighton Fringe. As England’s biggest open-access arts festival, count on it to bring the weird. Plus, the sun should be peeking onto that pebble beach this time of year. Sorry, Kent Riviera: Brighton’s just better.

Sustainable travel tip: Taste Brighton’s independent (and sustainable) spirit with Brighton Food Tours : itineraries focus solely on the city’s indie producers and vendors.

Where to stay: Artist Residence Brighton . A jaunty pink door marks out the terraced property on Regency Square. Inside, the arty rooms have boldly painted walls, while the communal spaces are a bit more muted, with exposed-brick walls and vintage furniture. Or in the city’s quieter, more grown-up neighbourhood just 15 minutes by bus from Brighton’s centre, the Ginger Pig is a favourite for smart locals. For self-catered options, take a look at our list of the best Airbnbs in Brighton.

8. Dublin, Ireland

Temperature in May: 15°C high, 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

What, not for St Patrick’s Day? But Dublin isn’t all braying pub mobs. In May it makes room for brooding artistes. Its writerly sons Joyce, Yeats and Wilde all wandered these Georgian streets for inspiration, and May’s annual International Literature Festival honours the capital’s high-minded pedigree, with authors flying in from all over the globe to argue and provoke. Then embark on a literary pub crawl, and sip pints where Dublin’s greatest writers did so a century before. In May, there’ll be moderate weather, crowds and prices: a pleasant time to wander the Grand Canal, dine in restaurant/bookshop The Winding Stair, and take in the works of new Irish playwrights at the Abbey Theatre, originally co-founded by Yeats.

Sustainable travel tip: Ferries sail daily from Liverpool and Holyhead to Dublin. Travel from Holyhead and you can buy ‘rail and sail’ tickets with both Irish Ferries and Stena Line, so you needn’t bother with a car at either end.

Where to stay: The Westbury , an enduring spot on the city’s scene and the flagship of the Irish, family-run Doyle Collection. Just off the shopping hub of Grafton Street, guest rooms have been spruced up with a lighter, brighter touch, and there are killer cocktails at the glamorous Sidecar bar. Or go all-out in this luxurious three-bedroom Airbnb hideaway . For more recommendations, see our edit of the best Dublin hotels .

Charlotte Davey

Lee Marshall

Arati Menon

Connor Sturges

9. Tuscany and Florence, Italy

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

If you weren't already head-over-heels in love with Italy, a trip to Tuscany will inevitably cast you into the deepest of adorations. The birthplace of the Italian language is crammed full of UNESCO world heritage sights, medieval country houses and ancient cities. This region isn't just a living, breathing museum though, it is also famed for its Chianti growing vines, rolling Tuscan hills, the crazily cute Cinque Terre and coastal region The Maremma . Florence , the capital, is great for a bank holiday weekend, warm enough to stroll in a sundress and devour gelato, but before the city becomes stuffy and overrun by organised tourist groups.

Sustainable travel tip: You can reach Florence by train, with a night in Milan for good measure. After arriving in Paris via Eurostar , catch a high-speed TGV train to Italy’s fashion capital (journey time: about seven hours). Next morning, a high-speed Frecciarossa train zips you to Florence in just a couple of hours.

Where to stay: Casa Iris , a thrillingly pretty guesthouse in the middle of the peninsula, is an elegant retreat in a place full of gelato-toting holidaymakers. And there’s no shortage of elegant hotels in Florence, but something about the St. Regis is extra wonderful: here, the royal treatment is for everyone. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Tuscany .

10. Norwegian Fjords

Temperature in May: 16°C high; 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 5 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Cruising through the fjords is one way to do it – another is a monumental road trip, skimming cliff edges and winding through greening countryside, above blue water sparkling below. In May, wildflowers are flourishing and hiking trails are blissfully quiet; free not only of tourists, but also of summer’s irksome midges. Drive the Discovery Route from Bergen and catch spring’s blossoming apple trees at dramatic Hardangerfjord, then feel your stomach drop at the lip of flat-topped Pulpit Rock. Steady your nerves back in Bergen, where Scandi -red clapboard houses sit aside buzzy cocktail bars; No Stress prides itself on its house-made syrups and juices, and can be relied upon for a good-time throng.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of regions in the fjords are a certified ‘Sustainable Destination’: a national labelling scheme that rewards areas deemed to be systematically preserving local culture and environment. Lyngenfjord offers outdoor adventures, visits with the Sami people and locally reared and foraged food; Lysefjord, home of Pulpit Rock, has excellent hiking routes and restaurants focused on local produce. Heart set on a cruise? Nærøyfjord can be explored onboard electric ferry Future , or the hybrid vessel Vision

Where to stay: Hotel Brosundet , a former fishing warehouse reimagined by Snøhetta, the progressive architectural outfit that designed the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in the centre of town. This place is so close to the water that some guests have been known to leap into the waves from the windows. Or for stunning views, you'll struggle to find better than this seaside Airbnb.

11. Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Think of the Greek Islands and think of whitewashed stone villages illuminated against the blue Aegean, ancient ruins and tiny little fishing villages. The Dodecanese islands, a chain of 12 larger islands ( Rhodes is the best known of them) and lots of little ones, are all these clichés and more. For a real taste of Greek life, the volcanic island of Nisyros is wonderfully welcoming and a haven for artists. Symi, half an hour from the Turkish coast, has Michelin stars and is glamorously old school, Kastellorizo inspired the likes of Pink Floyd and Patmos has incredible Byzantine architecture, or if you can't settle on one, go island hopping on the Calypso.

Sustainable travel tip: Reaching Rhodes without boarding a plane is possible, but you’ll need to be dedicated. Probably the simplest way is to take the Eurostar to Paris, followed by a TGV to Munich (seven hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend a night and day in the Serbian capital. An overnight train will then take you to Thessaloniki, from where you can enjoy a very scenic journey on an InterCity train to Athens (four hours). Finally, an overnight ferry sails you to Rhodes. Now, here’s the catch: the sleeper to Thessaloniki only operates mid-June to mid-September. See the brilliant Seat61.com for an alternative route that involves a second ferry and more train changes.

Where to stay: Melenos Lindos, for decorative wooden ceilings, Ottoman-inspired hand-painted tiles, raised wooden sleeping platforms with elaborate carved woodwork, and mirror frames inlaid with mother of pearl. At the terrace bar and restaurant (which serves seasonal Greek food), a vine-covered pergola is threaded with tiny lanterns. For pure, Greek Island relaxation we love this Airbnb with a private pool.

12. Istanbul, Turkey

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 13°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +3

Before Turkey's blazing summer heat sets in, head to Istanbul for an easy and accessible city break from the UK . The city is a glorious mish-mash of European and Asian culture – buzzing bazaars filled with keen-to-haggle hawkers selling trinkets sit next to contemporary art galleries. Sunrise calls to prayer from glittering mosques intertwine with the sound of electronic music from boat nightclubs floating on the Bosphorus. There are countless palatial hotels to stay in; or consider Soho House 's Istanbul outpost, a little haven in this electrifying city.

Sustainable travel tip: Yes, you absolutely can travel to Istanbul by train, though it’ll take you a good four days. The route, however, is a fascinating one, in parts retracing the journey the Orient Express made back in the 1920s. Arrive in Paris on the Eurostar, then take a TGV Duplex to Munich (6.5 hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend the night there before travelling onwards to Sofia (11.5 hours, summer service runs direct until mid September). Explore the Bulgarian capital before the final leg, an overnight sojourn aboard the Sofia-Istanbul Express.

Where to stay: Soho House Istanbul . The restoration of this 19th-century palace in the city's coolest district is one of the London hotel group's biggest and most ambitious projects, with 120 light-flooded and serene bedrooms. Or, to escape the crowds, Six Senses Kocatas Mansion s is pure luxury (and the hotel has a boat to take you to Istanbul, should you wish). For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Istanbul .

13. Egypt, Africa

Temperature in May: 34°C high; 24°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Rebounding Egypt shows new confidence this year with the long-awaited opening of its $1 billion Grand Egyptian Museum (after several delays, it’s slated to welcome visitors by the end of 2020). Just over a mile from the show-stopping Giza Pyramid Complex, the museum promises, among other things, a faithful reconstruction of Tutankhamun’s extravagantly ornamented tomb, featuring more than 5,000 original pieces. Though the country’s troubles have not vanished, the number of returning tourists has crept upwards enough to encourage other luxuries; the new Cairo St Regis is a chic high-rise hotel offering respite from street-level chaos. May might be the best time to see Egypt’s wonders without an accompanying rabble, before summer gets truly sweltering, but off-season enough to bag five-stars for less.

Sustainable travel tip: Cruising down the Nile on your bucket list? Set sail on a traditional wooden felucca , a more sustainable option than the ubiquitous four-storey floating hotels, some of which are known to pollute the river with fuel and sewage.

Where to stay: At one of Egypt’s best beach hotels and red sea diving spots, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh . Or, this mini house near Cairo is a photographer's dream, available to book on Airbnb.

14. Memphis, USA

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -6

The Memphis in May Festival – a month of celebrations centred around the beloved preoccupations of blues and barbecue – brings an already party-loving city even more to life. Lately, this storied part of the American South has been gifted with a little extra sparkle, too: an expanded Graceland features an entire museum dedicated solely to Elvis’s cars; the new Mighty Lights of Hernando de Soto Bridge shine a nightly show over the Mississippi’s swell. Beale Street remains an essential destination: a neon strip of legendary blues clubs. And don’t leave without a taste of those famed baby-back ribs. With around 115 barbecue restaurants inside the city, there’s really no excuse.

Sustainable travel tip: Memphis may not exactly be pedestrian-friendly, but, thanks to the recent development of more than 300 miles of bike lanes, there’s now a quick and clean way to navigate both downtown and the city’s wider sprawl. Explore Bike Share supplies the Memphis version of Boris bikes, accessed via an app.

Where to stay : In the downtown district of Memphis lies The Peabody , a grand hotel a favourite of locals and travellers.

15. Bahamas, Caribbean

Temperature in May: 29°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -5

Behold the Bahamian sweet spot: May. The winter hordes long gone, and spring-breakers freshly departed. Hurricane season doesn’t set in until June . Beaches relieved of rowdy crowds settle sedately in the sun. There’s nothing to do but stake out your patch on pristine Cabbage Beach (even quieter at the north end), take your pick of poolside lounge chairs, and pluck the fruits of Gladstone Road Farmers Market (open until the end of the month). You might even splash about with a sow at Pig Beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Andros Island isn’t just an unspoiled slice of backcountry untroubled by cruise ships and high-rise hotels; it’s also home to Tiamo , an impressive eco-lodge with just 13 thatched bungalows fringed by white beach and thick palms. Tiamo runs on solar power, has composting toilets (though you wouldn’t know it to look at them), and employs staff from local communities who are trained as nature guides – take an informed boat tour through mangroves or explore caves and forests inland.

Where to stay: On a private oceanfront estate with Versailles-like gardens at Four Season's The Ocean Club . Guests can dine at top chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Dune, indulge in the Balinese-inspired One&Only Spa, or relax by the oceanfront pool. A mix of locality, cerulean sea, and ultra-private intimacy makes Rosewood Baha Mar the easiest place to stop in to for winter sun without becoming a total beach bum.

16. Botswana, Africa

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 10°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT +2

The Okavango Delta hogs all the press, but Chobe National Park, in Botswana ’s north-east corner, is every bit as captivating, especially in May. It’s the beginning of dry season, but just before high season, so camps aren’t too crowded, the weather is mild (around 25°C) and evaporating surface water drives large herds of animals to the Chobe River. Cruise past crocs and hippos on a boat safari, with a glass of chilled South African wine in hand. The park is also home to one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephants. andBeyond’s Chobe Under Canvas provides a proper adventure, bringing you as close to nature as you might care to get.

Sustainable travel tip: Most national parks and reserves in Botswana lease the land from local communities, generating royalties that are invested back into the community and into conservation. The country has also created an Eco-Certification System for tourism businesses (more here botswanatourism.co.bw ), so check whether your operator and/or accommodation is meeting those standards. For more inspiration, see our pick of Six incredible safari lodges in Botswana.

Where to stay: Jack’s Camp is an old-world, Moroccan-style glamorous tented safari camp in the middle of Botswana’s arid Kgalagadi. Amongst the many lodges in Botswana are some stunning Airbnbs too - this farm has taken our fancy.

17. California, USA

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT -8

Come May we're California -dreamin' – of Yosemite National Park, cool and quirky San Francisco and shiny sparkly Los Angeles . If you harbour Jack Kerouac fantasies then take an all-American road trip through the state or along Big Sur. Conversely, the cities and towns of California are diverse and interesting enough individually to brave the long-haul flight for. San Francisco is the state capital of food and outdoor action (if not the actual state capital), while Los Angeles is a strange glittering town of health, wealth and youth, and San Diego is great for surfing. The smaller towns dotted along this sunny coast, such as Malibu and Palm Springs , are also charming enough to keep you occupied.

Sustainable travel tip: Between tech giants and movie studios, California is overwhelmingly agricultural, and its status as the nation’s food basket means the majority of its trendy farm-to-table restaurants are the real deal. San Francisco, in particular, champions regional farms and producers all over its menus: avoid Downtown tourist traps and head for hot restaurants in hip ’hoods such as Cow Hollow and the Mission. Don’t miss the temple to local food at the Ferry Building’s covered market, either.

Where to stay: Little sister to the smarter Palihouse, Palihotel has 32 rooms with a velvety bohemian glamour and Dean & Deluca snacks in the bulging mini-bars. For the full LA experience, there's even the Eggslut food truck outside. Or, For a design hotel, The Hoxton in Downtown LA is a firm favourite.

18. Vancouver Island

Temperature in May: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 9 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

In amongst the knotted tangle of Vancouver Island 's evergreen forest, it's easy to forget that this is supposedly the most populated island in North America. Mother Nature is still queen, with bears roaming the interior and excellent whale-watching off the coast. Even if you're not barmy about wildlife, this island is one big playground. Daredevils can throw themselves down whitewater rapids, paraglide from peaks or snorkel and dive the sea. There's a more chilled-out side too; the surfer town of Tofino is quickly becoming the best place for food, while glamping takes on new heights at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort .

Sustainable travel tip: Pay a visit to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The park falls within the traditional territories of nine different nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth people, and park authorities work closely with those nations to manage the lands respectfully and represent First Nations culture. It’s one of few examples of tourism in Canada working for indigenous people, and is well worth supporting.

Where to stay: If you venture over to Vancouver Island, book a room at Rosewood Hotel Georgia . There is a fabulous speakeasy bar with a range of dangerous absinthes, a buzzy courtyard café, a stunning pool and a five-star spa. Distinguished, clubby and stylishly Edwardian, it feels like an elegant throwback to the wonderful era of grand hotels.

19. Cape Verde

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 7 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -1

Known as Africa's answer to the Galápagos Islands, richly diverse Cape Verde is good for a guaranteed hit of sunshine located in The Atlantic. The dramatic interior hides volcanic hot springs and arid deserts, while the beaches, with their azure seas and white sands, are more befitting of the Caribbean. With this abundance of natural resources and a dash of African charm and culture, Cape Verde's potential is finally being recognised.

Sustainable travel tip: Most tourists head to Cape Verde for a fly-and-flop holiday, but why not prioritise local culture and landscape with Responsible Travel ’s walking and cultural trip instead? The itinerary includes stays at family-run guesthouses and plumps for hiking routes that don’t trample over ecologically delicate areas.

Where to stay: Odjo d'Aqua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can eat as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

20. Lake District, England

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 4°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 5 hours drive from London Time difference: GMT

Cumbria might not be basking in glorious early-summer sunshine come May, but spring is still one of the loveliest times to finally pay a visit to the Lake District National Park . Ironically, in these parts, lakes are actually diversely known as ‘meres,’ ‘tarns’ and ‘waters’. Whatever you call these vast bodies of water, a May trip promises joyful signs of the changing seasons, from carpets of bluebells to spotting Herdwick lambs to rich cherry blossoms – all without the crowds that flock here once summer-proper arrives.

Sustainable travel tip: Where possible, leave a car behind and sightsee on public transport, by bike or on foot.

Where to stay: Set on a hillside a short drive from Lake Windermere, Gilpin Hotel sprawls across 21 acres of verdant grounds. Or check into low-key country-house Another Place in Ullswater for uninterrupted views of the lake and brilliant on-site restaurants.

The top 10 destinations to travel in May 2024

Editor’s update: This article was originally published in September 2019 and updated in July 2023.

Picking your next destination isn’t easy, but there’s a better way than spinning a big globe, closing your eyes and slamming your finger down (it’ll probably end up in the middle of the Atlantic, and wifi there is patchy, to say the least). Introducing our ultimate month-by-month destination guide : your no-fuss list of places to go, things to see and good weather to chase around the world.

Today we’re looking at where to travel in May, a balmy, sunshine-in-a-bowl sort of month, particularly for the northern hemisphere. Europe wakes up from its winter slumber, tables and vino glasses start appearing on cobbled sidewalks, beaches in the Caribbean and the Med begin to buzz, and the world puts its metaphorical feet up with a good John Grisham novel. Here’s where you should be looking for that perfect May getaway.

Top 10 destinations to travel in May

• Everest Base Camp Trek – 15 days 
• Annapurna Explorer – 15 days 
• Chitwan Extension – 4 days 

Read more: What to know before trekking Everest Base Camp

Feeling inspired?

• Athens to Santorini – 8 days
• Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos – 8 days

Read more: 9 Greek beaches that should be on your bucket list

Head into Tuscany for tranquil cellar door pitstops, visit Florence for the annual Festa del Grillo in Cascine Park (vendors basically unleash a horde of crickets on the city), or snack on in-season fava beans, tomatoes and strawberries at a Monti street café in Rome.

• Best of Italy – 15 days 
• Explore Southern Italy – 10 days 
• Italy Real Food Adventure – 8 days

Read more: 6 Italian cities to visit before everyone else does

4. The United States

Okay, the United States is a big place. So let’s narrow it down. If you happen to be passing through the Appalachians (and want to brave the trackside crowds), you should consider visiting the Kentucky Derby. May is also a great time to visit the Grand Canyon as the winter snow has usually cleared, the weather’s warming up and the summer hordes haven’t yet clogged all the viewing platforms. Plus, the North Rim reopens mid-May for the spring/summer season (it closes for most of winter) – always an exciting time. Weather-wise though, it’s hard to beat the north-east: Cape Cod, Pittsburgh and New England in general are all coming into bloom.

• Western USA National Parks Loop – 5 days
• Real LA to San Francisco – 11 days
• Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans – 6 days

Our pick? The Festival of the Roses at Kelaa-des-Mgouna, a desert town that’s home to the country’s famous rose water industry. Over 700 tonnes of petals will be harvested from the valleys during this time, and locals celebrate with traditional dancing, singing and (our favourite) eating. If rose water’s your thing, there’s no better place to be.

• Best of Morocco – 15 days 
• Morocco Encompassed – 17 days
• Morocco: Hike & Bike – 9 days

Read more: 10 experiences every traveller should have in Morocco

7. Australia

• Broome to Perth Overland – 10 days
• Queensland Daintree Explorer – 5 days
• Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure – 4 days

8. Czech Republic

For those who like to chase their culture with a good brew, there’s also the Czech Beer Festival – a 17-day celebration that takes place at over 70 local breweries, not to mention a stomach-expanding feast of local Czech food courtesy of the country’s hottest chefs. Trust us, you’ll never want to leave.

• Highlights of Central Europe – 9 days 
• Best of Central Europe – 15 days
• Cycle Prague to Vienna – 8 days

We recommend a little out-of-the-way spot like Castelldefels (great tapas, fewer crowds). The weather usually hovers around the mid-20s (°C) or high 70s (°F). Hit up a good rooftop bar in the Gothic Quarter, order a ruby pitcher of sangria and let the evening unfold. If you’ve got your dancing shoes on, make sure to check out the Ciutat Flamenco Festival held in the Mercat de les Flors.

• Best of Spain – 15 days
• Walk the Camino de Santiago – 7 days
• Explore Spain & Portugal – 15 days

Read more: Our guide to 7 days in Spain

Temperatures in the mountains can drop to around 10°C (50°F) after sunset, so pack a few layers to keep you warm at night. For something really special, check out the Qoyllur Rit’I, a massive indigenous pilgrimage to the peak of Mt Ausangate near Cusco. Thousands of locals attempt the climb, some carrying blocks of ice down on their backs).

• Inca Trail Express – 7 days
• Sacred Land of the Incas – 15 days
• Premium Peru – 9 days

Read more: Why visit Northern Peru

Not looking to travel in May? No worries. Check out our other monthly travel guides:

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of)

Posted on Published: October 17, 2023  - Last updated: March 12, 2024

With spring patiently waiting to arrive, February is the perfect month for a vacation! Whether you’re planning a special Valentine’s Day getaway or looking to find some warm weather, February offers a plethora of options. Here are the best countries to visit in February!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to travel to in February is to say goodbye to the cold and hit the beach beach, or you’re aiming for snowy adventures like skiing and northern lights, this list has a little bit of everything. 

Some of these destinations are in the off season, so you’ll find amazing pricing, which makes it even more fun to travel there! From cities with cobblestone streets to white sandy beaches, you’ll find the best February destinations.

Including countries from all regions of the world, you’re gonna want to start the search for flights!  Let’s dive in!

Countries to visit in February map

From hiking to frozen waterfalls in Finland to taking a safari in Kenya, your February vacation options are truly endless. Use the map below to start planning!

Oh and by the way, I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but since I haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help create this list of the best places to vacation in February. Enjoy!

Before you book your trip, be sure to get travel insurance ! While I truly hope you have a fabulous time, you just never know what will happen before or on vacation, and travel insurance can protect your investment.

Best countries to visit in February

Who knew February was such a great time to travel?! This list proves that it just may be the best. With fewer crowds and diverse options it’s up to you to decide the best place to vacation in February for your travel style.

There are sooo many options….let’s go!

1. Seychelles

• Region:  Africa (island in the Indian Ocean)
• Fly into:  Seychelles International Airport (SEZ)
• Average temperature:  85F/76F. Approximately 11 days of rain.

One of the best countries to visit in February is the Seychelles. If you are coming from the Northern Hemisphere, you will likely have the winter blues at this point and the Seychelles offers a completely different world during the winter months!

Technically, the Seychelles experience their ‘rainy’ season throughout this time, however, it’s the tropics so you can expect a bit of rain throughout the year, anyway.

One perk of visiting the Seychelles in winter is that the seas are calmer despite the weather being wetter. This is especially important for those taking the ferry to La Digue or Praslin from Mahe (the summer ferries are known to make passengers seasick).

In February, you can find the Seychellois celebrating Carnival. They have BBQs (a Creole favorite!), picnics, and a lot of dancing on the islands. There is also the eco-friendly marathon taking place in February.

The off-season winter months also experience slightly cheaper prices – which is great for those traveling as the Seychelles is not a budget destination . Tours are also easier to book at the last minute.

One tour to avoid missing out on is the Saint-Anne Marine Park and Moyenne Island day trip. This is one of the  best things to do on Mahe  and is a must for any visitor.

If you plan to visit all three main islands (Mahe, La Digue, and Praslin), you should set aside at least 10 days to properly see all the islands. Otherwise, your trip can feel a bit rushed.

Recommended by Megan of Megan Starr

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• Region: Northern Europe
• Fly into: Rovaniemi Airport
• Average temp: 20°F to 29°F

Finland is one of the best vacation spots in February, especially in the Lapland region located in Northern Finland. This whole area is a complete winter wonderland, and you will be guaranteed tons of snow!

Firstly, you will want to base yourself in Rovaniemi, which is the capital of the Lapland region of Finland. It is located right on the Arctic Circle and you can here by train or plane. There are tons of nearby towns, all offering winter wonderland activities.

From winter hiking, frozen waterfalls, reindeer farms, huskies, Finnish Saunas, and ice fishing, there is something for everyone.

Additionally, one of the oldest known Nomadic festivals takes place during February. This is called the Jokkmokk market. It celebrates the traditions of the Sàmi people. During the festival, you’ll be taken back to the Middle Ages, where you can try traditional meals and explore the market stalls.

February is also an incredible time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland! There are plenty of guided tours you can book. By booking a tour, you’ll maximize your chances of seeing the lights as you will be guided by experts. 

Admittedly, the temperatures are definitely low during this time of the year. Just make sure to have extra layers and a big thick coat.

For a  unique place to stay in Rovaniemi, you can consider Apukka Resort, which is well known for its igloo huts! 

Recommended by Samantha of Find Love and Travel 

3. Turks and Caicos (a favorite on this list of best counties to visit in February)

• Region : Caribbean
• Fly into : Providenciales International Airport
• Average temp : 82°F high  / 74°F low

One of the absolute best countries to visit in February, Turks and Caicos is nestled in the vibrant Caribbean Sea. With vibrant turquoise water and white-sand beaches, this getaway is a much-needed reprieve from a cold winter.

With a scene that can’t be described in words or photos, the color of the water in Turks and Caicos is truly unbelievable. In fact, it reminds me of the time I visited Banff in summer and saw the water in Moraine Lake – truly jaw-dropping!

Turks and Caicos is a chain of islands, although most people fly into and stay on Providenciales, unless you’re taking a cruise you’ll likely go through Grand Turk.

There’s so many great things to do in Turks and Caicos, including eating delicious food, enjoying water activities and beach hopping! Grace Bay is the best beach in Turks and Caicos, and where most of the luxury hotels are located.

To experience more of the island, go kayaking at Chalk Sound National Park, take a snorkeling tour or try kiteboarding at Long Beach.

Whether you’re looking to relax or craving adventure, Turks and Caicos is the answer to your question, “where to go in February?”

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

• Region : North Africa
• Fly into : Cairo International Airport
• Average temp : 66 high, 59 low (in F)

Dating back to thousands of years of history,  Egypt  is an ancient and incredible country to visit . The country is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Natural Wonders of the World, including the Pyramids of Giza.

Cairo, the capital and the largest city of Egypt, has an international airport that connects with major cities around the world. There are also a few cruise lines that stop at Port Said in Cairo. Apart from the international airport in Cairo, there are other smaller airports around the city that you can fly to.

Other than the capital city, there are other ancient and significant cities such as Giza, Memphis, Saqqar, Luxor and Aswan . Throughout these cities you’ll find many historical monuments and are part of the UNESCO Heritage sites.

You need at least one to two weeks to explore and experience what Egypt has to offer. One of the best places to stay is Giza Pyramids View Inn where the rooms offer views of the pyramids.

The best and the peak season in Egypt is during the winter season and February falls in the winter season. Offering pleasant weather when compared to the rest of the month s, Egypt is one of the best countries to visit in February.

During the month, the average temperature ranges between 59 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal to explore the iconic monuments, cruise the Nile River, and scuba dive into the underwater world of the Red Sea. In fact, Egypt also celebrates Abu Simbel Sun Festival in the month of February.

Recommended by Raksha of Solo Passport

• Region: Southeast Asia
• Fly into : Wattay International Airport, Vientiane
• Average temperature: 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit but it can get much colder in the northern province of Phongsali

February is one of the best months to delve into Laos’ culture and natural wonders. While definitely on the banana pancake trail, Laos sees fewer visitors than Thailand or Vietnam and is a haven for those seeking a more tranquil escape in Southeast Asia.

February is one of the best times to visit as the rain bids its adieu and the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold which makes it excellent for outdoor activities.

In addition to the plethora of activities in February, you will love the country for its gorgeous natural scenery, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine . Places not to miss in Laos are definitely the city of Luang Prabang for its proximity to the  Kuang Si Falls  and Vang Vieng for its beautiful rock formations.

Make sure to leave time to explore lesser-known destinations like the towns of Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi.

Furthermore, the Mighty Mekong flows right through Laos. Y ou can enjoy boat trips on this amazing river but also taste local delicacies out of the river like fried Mekong seaweed crackers with chili peppers and garlic.

From Wattay Airport, you can easily reach the center of the capital Vientiane . Busses and trains leave from the capital to every corner of the country.

I would recommend staying for at least four weeks to really immerse yourself in the Lao ambiance and to have enough time to slow travel the country.

A great stay that is high on many travelers’ bucket lists is the Gibbon Experience . Here, you’ll sleep in treehouses high in the canopy of lush forest in the north of Laos.

It’s no secret why Laos is one of the best places to visit in February.

Recommended by Annelies of Travelers & Dreamers

6. Norway (Where to go in February for adventure-lovers!)

• Fly into: Tromsø Airport
• Average temp: 30° F high, 22° F low 

Norway, and especially the northern portion above the Arctic Circle, is the perfect destination for an adventurous vacation in February. It’s the perfect place to see the northern lights and try other activities like riding a snowmobile or going ice fishing. 

Plan to visit northern Norway for at least 6 days. A longer trip will give you more chances to see the northern lights and will give you time to visit smaller areas like Narvik and Senja.

Unless you’re visiting other countries in northern Europe, plan to start and end your trip in Tromsø, where you’ll find the biggest airport in the region. 

There are weeks during the winter in Norway when Tromsø and other areas see 0 minutes of sunlight each day. By February, the days are starting to get longer and the locals are more friendly . It feels as though the entire region is starting to come back to life as the sun starts to shine longer and longer each day. 

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon , so there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll see them during your visit. You can increase your chances by visiting for several days and visiting areas away from sources of light pollution. 

For a unique and unforgettable experience, you can stay in an arctic dome in northern Norway. If you’re lucky, you might even see the northern lights from your warm bed inside the dome. 

It’s easy to see why Norway makes it on this list of the best places to travel in February!

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

• Region : East Africa
• Fly into: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
• Average temp: 82°F high, 72°F low

Kenya is one of the best countries to travel to in February. The climate is mild and mostly dry, which is perfect for safari, and the chances of wildlife spotting – including baby animals and a wide variety of birds – is fantastic. February is also a great time of year for hiking and climbing.

You can do a lot during a  12-day action-packed safari trip to Kenya , especially if you use a tour provider like  Sense of Africa .

Most tours begin and end in Nairobi , where you can visit the Giraffe Centre, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Karen Blixen Museum, and more. 

From here, you can tailor your tour to visit (and stay at) various game parks. Some favorites are Samburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Don’t forget to save time to hike at Mount Kenya National Park, home to Africa’s second highest peak.

One of the highlights of any trip to Kenya is the Maasai Mara , which shares the same ecosystem as Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. It is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world.

The Mara is home to an abundance of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and cheetahs, as well as the elusive leopard and endangered black rhino . Be sure to pack your binoculars!

Here, you can also do a Maasai village tour. On the tour, you’ll practice your high jumps, chant with members of the Maasai tribe, go inside a typical Maasai home, and learn about the Maasai culture.

You can also opt to take a hot air balloon ride over the Mara or have breakfast on a riverbank, while watching hippos and crocodiles swim in the Mara River.

Note that a travel visa is required to enter the country, and the Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended.

Recommended by Sara from Travel A-Broads

Best places to visit in February continued…

We’re just getting started! Here are more of the best countries to visit in February – including a few of my favorites!

8. French Polynesia (where to travel in February for warmth!)

• Region : Oceania
• Fly into: Papeete International Airport 
• Average temp: 85 high, 75 low

February is the perfect time to visit French Polynesia if you’re looking for an escape from the cold winter weather. During this month, visitors can expect temperatures to range from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great time to soak up the sun on one of the many perfect beaches.

During the stay, consider exploring Tahiti’s waterfalls before hiking Moorea’s lush trails . You can reach the trails by taking a  ferry from Tahiti to Moorea .  

Then. explore the underwater wonders of Bora Bora or the tranquil lagoons of Rangiroa. Both of which feature crystal clear water and a truly unforgettable experience.

Visitors won’t have to worry about crowds either, since February is considered low season.  This is the perfect time to find deals on airfare and accommodations.

The sights will be less crowded and the beaches may feel empty.  For travelers ready to splurge, check out the Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora for excellent service and stunning views.

To get to French Polynesia, most travelers fly into Papeete before flying or boating off to the other islands.

If possible, visit this beautiful country for at least a week to experience all that French Polynesia has to offer.

Travelers should note that in the touristy areas, English is common. However, keep in mind that English may not be widely spoken in off the beaten path areas, so brushing up on some basic French phrases is a good idea.

As you can see, French Polynesia is one of the best places to go in February for an unforgettable getaway!

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth

9. Guatemala (an underrated destination on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Region : Central America
• Fly into : Guatemala City – La Aurora International Airport (GUA)
• Average temp : 78°F high  / 56°F low

Guatemala is known as “the land of eternal spring,” with much of the country enjoying pleasant, mild days year-round. However, February may just be the best time to visit, boasting warm, sunny weather in the middle of the dry season.

The nearly perfect weather makes it an ideal time to tackle a hike up one of the volcanoes that the country is known for.

The most famous of these is the trek up Volcan Acatenango, which allows for a unique experience to witness Volcan Fuego . It’s one of the most active volcanoes in all of Central America.

If you prefer less adventurous activities, there’s plenty more that Guatemala has to offer. Spending a few days in Antigua is a must to explore its colonial gems. The city was destroyed by a giant earthquake in 1773 and rebuilt, and its attractions offer a look into its history and resiliency.

After spending some time in Antigua, it’s highly recommended that you head over to Lake Atitlan. There are about a dozen Mayan villages that surround the lake, each offering a different vibe and feel.

You will gain a fascinating look into traditional Mayan culture – and the views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes are unreal.

If you have more time, head over to the ruins of Tikal . These ruins are one of the most important ancient cities of pre-Columbian Mayan civilization.

Another attraction worth visiting is Semuc Champey, a natural monument consisting of a series of cascading turquoise pools nestled in the lush jungle.

No matter how you decide to spend your time in Guatemala, it’ll surely prove to be one of the best February destinations.

Recommended by Caroline of Pictures and Words

10. Maldives (a top choice for the best places to travel in February)

• Fly into: Velana International Airport (MLE)
• Average temperature: between 85°F and 89°F

Are you looking for where to go in February? Add the Maldives to the list! This place is what your screensaver image was showing at least once in your lifetime, and you have probably wondered “Is this place even real?”.

No matter if you decide to have a more active vacation and invest  10 to 14 days in The Maldives , or if you just plan to lay on a beach for at least a week, February is the best time to visit this awesome tropical paradise.

While The Maldives is known as a go-to destination for couples on their honeymoon, I can tell you that you can enjoy it no matter what you are celebrating.

If visiting in February though, and you don’t want to see way too many couples on your trip, avoid Valentine’s Day. Even better, come right after, so you get to enjoy the smaller prices and the absolutely amazing weather.

The highlight of the trip? The absolutely mind-blowing underwater world, for sure! There are few other places in the world with such a diverse underwater landscape.

Be prepared to encounter not only a lot of colorful fish and delicate anemones, but also huge turtles, gorgeous manta rays, and amazing sharks. No matter if you’re a professional diver or you have just bought your snorkeling gear, please learn about the various animals you may encounter.

It’s also important to educate yourself of the potential dangers of the place. It’s your responsibility to protect yourself and the environment.

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

• Region: Caribbean
• Fly into: Havana or Santiago de Cuba
• Average temp: 78F

If you are looking for sunny and warm destinations in February, Cuba is the perfect place for you. It’s one of the best hot destinations in February to visit!

Located in the Caribbean, Cuba is famous for many things including classic cars, stunning beaches, cigars, rum and more.

February is one of the best months to visit Cuba . It’s the dry season (no risk of hurricane) and the temperatures are lovely. You can expect an average of 78°F (25°C).

This means that you can enjoy all the best activities in Cuba from the beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving to hiking and sightseeing in cities.

The best way to get there is by plane. There are two main airports, one in Havana and one in Santiago de Cuba but if you opt for a package holiday, you may fly to a smaller one.

Ideally, you’ll need two weeks to explore Cuba. This will give you the opportunity to discover various landscapes and places such as Havana, Vinales, Varadero, Santa Clara, Trinidad and more.

There are a lot of activities that are worth doing but here are some of the highlights. Viñales is by far a must-visit in Cuba. It’s home to loads of tobacco plantations and is perfect for people who want to discover how cigars are made.

Varadero on the other hand is perfect for beach lovers. Here you will discover beautiful beaches with white sand and crystal clear water. It’s a paradise on Earth!

Recommended by Pauline of Beeloved City

12. Netherlands

• Region : Northern Europe
• Fly into: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Average temp: 46°F high, 32°F low

The  Netherlands  offers a unique getaway experience. It easily makes this list of the best countries to visit in February. You can expect chilly but manageable weather with occasional rain, so packing layers and a waterproof jacket is key .

While the winter climate may be crisp, the atmosphere is anything but dull due to the Carnival celebrations. The festivities are particularly prominent in the southern regions like Limburg and North Brabant , with colorful parades and fantastical costumes.

Getting to the Netherlands is straightforward. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as a major hub for numerous international flights. Once in the country, the highly efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses, makes navigating to different regions easy and convenient.

A week-long trip would allow you to enjoy the Dutch Carnival while also exploring the highlights of the country.

Amsterdam, with its famous canals and museums, and Utrecht, known for its medieval architecture, should be on your list. Rotterdam is another cool option with great architecture and a fun vibe – don’t miss Kinderdijk with its iconic windmills just outside Rotterdam.

If you are staying in Amsterdam, then check out the “Mr. Jordaan” hotel. Its central location offers easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Despite the festivities, February is not peak tourist season, allowing visitors to explore with fewer crowds . However, hotels in towns hosting Carnival festivities might book up quickly. It’s always best to reserve in advance.

Recommended by Jo of World Wild Schooling

13. Indonesia (a bucket list country to visit in February!)

• Fly into: Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali
• Average temp: 75 to 88 degrees

Indonesia is a perfect destination in February if you’re looking to experience the archipelago without the high-season crowds. 

It is technically a rainy season, but places like Bali, even in rainy times, are great. With showers often occurring mostly at nights, it leaves the days sun-kissed.

Meanwhile, destinations like Raja Ampat boast their best weather, offering crystal-clear visibility for snorkelling and diving.

Direct international flights cater to major hubs like Jakarta and Denpasar . If you’re coming from Europe or the Americas, you might have a layover at popular transit points such as Singapore’s Changi Airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, or even Dubai International Airport.

For a first-time visit to Indonesia, which boasts over 17,000 islands, a 2-week stay is recommended. A typical itinerary might include a few of the best areas in Bali , such as Ubud, Seminyak and Uluwatu.

Be sure to save time for a visit to Java to see the magnificent Borobudur Temple and to climb Mount Bromo. If you have more time, take a trip to Flores for komodo dragons or Sumatra to see the orangutans in their natural habitat.

As for the festivals, February is the time of Chinese New Year,  locally known as “Imlek.” This festival ushers in vibrant street performances, colourful parades, and intricate lantern displays, especially in cities with significant Chinese-Indonesian populations like Jakarta or Surabaya.

Recommended by Mal of Where To Stay Bali

14. Australia

• Region: Oceania
• Fly into: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
• Average temp: 65-78°F in Sydney; 70-85°F in Brisbane; and 57-77°F in Melbourne.

Australia is, without a doubt, one of the best countries to visit in February.

You’ll be heading Down Under during the country’s summer months, so the weather will be at its best in the most popular areas for tourists. Despite this, the crowds (and prices) will be starting to lower as local children head back to school and international arrivals decrease. 

Given the size of the country (roughly the same area as the continental U.S.!), and the lengthy flight (and subsequent jetlag) to get there, Australia is not country in which to spend a mere few days. Two weeks should be the absolute minimum amount of time you allocate , but if you can stretch it out to a month, you’ll be greatly rewarded.

Sydney is a particularly great spot in February, which is convenient, as most international flights will arrive there. The city’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrations kick off in the middle of a month and last for a whopping 17 days . It’s one of the largest Pride events in the world and you can expect parties, film festivals, parades, art shows, and more.

Down in Melbourne, February provides the perfect climate for driving the Great Ocean Road . This iconic coastal road starts from just outside of the city and is regularly named one of the most scenic in the world.

On the drive, you’ll pass beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and and rugged cliffs, all the way to the impressive 12 Apostles.

Recommended by Lauren of Everything Victoria

15. Jordan (a fun one on this list of best countries to travel to in February)

• Region : Jordan, Middle East
• Fly into : Queen Alia International Airport in Amman or King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba
• Average temp : 80°F high, 50°F low

Visiting Jordan in February is a fantastic idea for those looking for a unique Middle Eastern adventure. You can avoid the tourist crowds that flock to Jordan during the high season.

The weather may be a bit chilly in the mornings, but it’s much more comfortable for outdoor activities than the unbearably hot summer months.

Dress in layers, bring sunscreen and a hat. Be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly. Wear a bikini only on the private beaches of your hotel.

The best way to explore the country is to rent a car . A  5-day itinerary to visit the highlights  is recommended to immerse yourself in Jordan’s rich history and natural beauty.

The iconic city of Petra and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum are must-sees . The cooler weather makes exploring these ancient wonders much more enjoyable.

The capital Amman, the ancient city of Jerash and the Dead Sea, where you can float on the water, are also worth a visit. The Red Sea near Aqaba offers great diving.

Don’t forget to try the Jordanian cuisine, especially the delicious falafel. Enjoying the local food and wine is one of the best Jordan travel tips .

Jordan in February promises an unforgettable, crowd-free adventure among the country’s incredible landscapes and historical treasures.

Recommended by Maria of Map and Camera

Best places to vacation in February

Are you a fan of chilly adventures? Or do you prefer relaxing on a warm sunny beach? This vacations for February list has something for everyone. From low crowds to affordable deals, February is THE time to travel! Here are more of the best places to go in February!

• Region: North America
• Fly into: varies based on state; Lihue, Kona, Honolulu or Kahului in Hawaii
• Average temp: 79°F high, 68°F low on average for Hawaii (remainder of US varies based on region)

If you’re reading this list of the best countries to travel to in February and are not from the US, then a trip to the states may be perfect for you! While the US is vast and experiences will vary greatly from state to state and within each region, I highly recommend a trip to Hawaii in February!

The weather is amazing during this time of year and the water is warm enough for swimming. Each island in Hawaii has its own appea l. And if you’ve never been, take this Hawaiian island quiz to help you determine which island is best for you.

Taking a trip to the Big Island to see the active volcano is deserving of any bucket list. Soak in the bustling city of Honolulu and the history of Pearl Harbor in Oahu. 

Be at one with nature in Kauai, soaking in amazing hiking views and the stunning NaPali Coast. Maui is home to the incredible adventures along the Road to Hana and Kahekili Highwy.

You really can’t go wrong with visiting any of the Hawaiian islands, especially during the winter!

• Region: Southern Europe
• Fly into: Malta International Airport (MIA)
• Average temp : 50-61 degrees

If you are looking for one of the best destinations in February with culture, fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and striking coastlines, then you will love the tiny Mediterranean island of Malta. 

By visiting in February, you will get mild temperatures ranging from 16℃ (61℉) to 10℃ (50℉) and lower lodging prices, given you will be there outside of the summer high season.

To get there, fly into the Malta International Airport. Then, if you have a few days, base yourself in nearby Valletta, the historic and peninsular capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Choose lodging on a pedestrian street, like Merchants Street, at a hotel like Rosselli – AX Privilege , or a street over, at Ursulino Valletta, with its gorgeous rooftop breakfast deck. This is a great guide if you need more ideas on where to stay in Malta .

While in Valletta, wander the streets and visit the Upper Barakka Gardens. Join a city tour to learn about its rich history. Or go on a photo tour highlighting the best views, prettiest doorways, and backdrops in a place improbably overflowing with aesthetic impressiveness. 

Then, take a day or two to get out of the city. Use the affordable Malta bus Explore pass or join a tour to visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

If you have the time, be sure to explore the ancient fortress city of Mdina, or wander the grounds of the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra overlooking the sea. 

Then, take the ferry to Gozo, Malta’s second-largest inhabitable island. Spend a few days visiting villages, walking stunning coastlines, and catching breathtaking sunset views from the Gozo Cittadella ramparts using  an itinerary like this one  to guide you.

Recommended by Janice of Gather and Go Travel

18. Argentina (another amazing destination on this list of best places to visit in February)

• Region: South America
• Fly into: Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport
• Average temp: 77° F high, 67°F  low – but these are rough estimates: the country is very vast and some regions such as Patagonia or Tierra del Fuego can be much colder.

Argentina is by far the best country to visit in February in South America. This is the peak of the summer season; which means more tourists and peak tourist season fares. On the other hand, February is the best month to visit Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Your trip will inevitably start in the capital Buenos Aires, known as the Paris of South America. Check out the Casa Rosata, explore the  historic San Telmo , where you can see impromptu tango shows, and La Boca districts and enjoy  the nightlife of Palermo.

If you love nature and hiking, you’ll have to head to Patagonia: catch a flight to Trelew and head to Puerto Madryn to admire the incredible wildlife – summer is the best time to see penguins.

From there, it’s another flight to Ushuaia, the main town in Tierra del Fuego and a perfect base to explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park. One of the best hikes in the region is Laguna Esmeralda.

El Calafate, also in Patagonia, is the best base to explore Perito Moreno and reach El Chalten, the hiking capital of Argentina. It’s here you’ll find the trails to the Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres (or Mount Fitzroy). 

If your interest is wine, then a trip to Mendoza and then to Salta is a must . Not far from Salta, the quebradas offer plenty of hiking opportunities, excellent wineries and a unique atmosphere here.

Also north of Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls are on the border with Brazil. Spend at least 2 nights to visit both the Argentine side and the Brazilian side for a full experience.

One of the best tips for those visiting Argentina for the first time is to focus on just one area.  The country is massive, and it will take you multiple trips to visit it. Focus your trip on one region and try to explore locally as much as you can.

Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

• Region:  Caribbean
• Fly Into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport
• Average Temp:  86F High, 77F Low

The island of Aruba is one of the best vacation spots in February for a beach getaway.

Aruba is home to beautiful white sand beaches, incredible snorkeling and diving , but the island offers much more than your typical beach getaway. 

Popular activities include sunset cruises, catamaran trips and dinner boat tours. Once you’ve soaked up enough sun on Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, you can try some windsurfing, parasailing or explore other parts of the island.

Arikok National Park cannot be missed . You can explore by taking a jeep tour or renting your own 4×4 to adventure across the wild landscape and limestone cliffs. One of the highlights is the Natural Pool – a small pool protected by the wild waves of the sea.

It’s easy to fly into Queen Beatrix International and take the many  airport transportation options . However, having a car opens up a new world of exploration for the adventurous and independent travelers. 

You can visit Aruba year-round as it sits outside the hurricane belt. F ebruary is also one of the dryer months with rain more likely in October to January . This makes February a popular month to visit, however it is never going to seem as crowded as many of the other islands.

Visit at the beginning of the month and you’ll catch the famous Aruba Carnival . You’ll find exciting events every day until the middle of February!

You’ll need 7 days minimum to enjoy Aruba but that would depend on your beach time. If  want to enjoy the many other activities as well as the world-class beaches then more days are recommended!

Recommended by Jeff of Life of Y

20. Thailand (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Region:  Southeast Asia
• Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport
• Average temp:  80F high, 70F low

Thailand is undeniably one of the best countries to visit in February. The country offers diverse landscapes, from lush jungles and pristine beaches to bustling cities. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, you’ll find it here.

The weather is spectacular, with clear skies and more bearable temperatures than other months. February is also the last cool month in Thailand.

One of the most magical events in February is the  Chiang Mai Flower Festival . The streets are transformed into a floral paradise . It’s a vibrant three-day celebration full of parades, garden displays, and traditional dancing.

The best part? Thailand is relatively quieter during February.

To get there, fly into Bangkok. Then, explore the country via domestic flights, trains, or even motorbikes. Bangkok’s bustling markets, historic temples, and vibrant street food are a must-see before you travel to other islands.

For a quieter experience, visit Chiang Rai’s White Temple or explore Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins. Enjoy the turquoise waters of Krabi or relax on the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui.

A two to three-week trip is perfect for getting a taste of Thailand. Consider booking boutique hotels for a more authentic experience, and don’t forget to savor local food at their street markets! It’s one of the best things to do in Thailand!

As you travel to Thailand, pack modest clothes for your temple visits. If you plan to stay longer, arrive earlier rather than later because from March to May, the pollution from their burning season tends to be quite intense.

Recommended by Gladis of Happiness on the Way

• Fly into: Jerez Airport (XRY) or Seville Airport (SVQ)
• Average temp: 63 °F high, 52 °F low

Tucked away in the southwest corner of Spain, Cádiz is a great place to visit in February, thanks to the Cádiz Festival. While the rest of Andalusia slumbers in its winter lull, Cádiz comes alive and reveals its most flamboyant side during the second month of the year.

Travelers and locals flock to the Carnaval de Cádiz for its chirpy atmosphere. Expect vibrant parades and costumes as the streets come alive with the sounds of music. It’s one of Spain’s biggest carnivals, known for its clever and satirical performances known as “chirigotas.”

While you’re in this breezy city, it’s the perfect occasion to try some classic Andalusian dishes like  pescaíto frito  (fried fish) and the ever-popular churros.

While the rest of Europe shivers, Cádiz enjoys a mild and pleasant climate in February. Although it’s far from its summer peak temperatures, it’s an ideal destination to escape winter’s cold.

The city appeals to a diverse crowd, from locals to tourists seeking an authentic Spanish experience. Getting  from Seville to Cadiz   is a breeze – it’s just a 1.5-hour train ride away. You can also easily reach it from popular destinations like Malaga or Tarifa.

Besides the festival, Cádiz’s main attraction is its beautiful old town, sitting gracefully in the middle of the bay of Cádiz. Whether you’re visiting its iconic white cathedral, medieval fortress, or the Mercado Central, you’re always just a few steps away from the sea.

Even though the festival lasts for 11 days, it’s a good idea to plan to stay in Cádiz for at least 2 days to fully enjoy its beauty. Afterward, you can keep exploring the many great things to see in Andalusia during its quieter, less busy season.

Even if you don’t plan to stay for the entire 11-day festival, it’s a good idea to spend at least 2 days in Cádiz to enjoy its beauty. Afterward, you can keep exploring the many great things to see in Andalusia in the intimacy of its low season.

Recommended by Iphi of Travel Choreography

22. Curacao (a top choice for the best country to visit in February)

• Region:  Caribbean
• Fly into:  Hato Airport
• Average temp:  86°F high, 76°F low

Considering a break from winter chills? Curaçao is the perfect place to go in February. With its warm temperatures and sunny weather, it’s easy to see why many choose this Caribbean island.

A big draw in February is the Curaçao Carnival. Streets come alive with music, dancing, and colorful parades.

Locals and tourists enjoy this animated fest, combining traditional beats with modern tunes. It’s not just a party; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, celebrating Curaçao’s unique culture.

But it’s not all about dancing. If you enjoy being active, you might want to  hike in Curaçao . The island offers a mix of gentle seaside paths and more demanding mountain trails. Walking, you’ll spot local plants, birds, and some wildlife.

Thinking of staying for a week? The Baoase Luxury Resort is a top pick . It’s the best option for luxury accommodation in Curaçao, and you will have a treat like nowhere else on the island. However, due to the popularity of the Carnival, it’s important to rserve your stay well in advance.

During your vacation, language won’t be a barrier. Most people in Curacao Island speak Dutch, Papiamentu, and English. You can also use the US dollar for most things which makes shopping and dining out hassle-free!

So, if warm days, lively parties, and natural beauty sound good, Curaçao in February should be on your list!

Recommended by Odo of Caribe Vibes

23. Switzerland

• Region:  Central Europe
• Fly into:  Zurich or Geneva
• Average temp:  28-45 F

The Swiss Alps may just be the dreamiest places to visit in February and Switzerland is truly a winter wonderland.

Geneva and Zurich are both accessible airports from most cities in Europe and getting around the county is simple with the fantastic train system.

Switzerland lies at the crossroads of several major European cultures, German, French and Italian. This will provide you with incredible architecture and diversity from the wonderful cities to the small towns.

Pick a few towns that you catch your eye and map out your itinerary – spend a week in Zermatt or enjoy a  three-night train trip  through the country with a new stop each day.

Zermatt is a “must do” when it comes to planning your trip. The famous Matterhorn sits in view of the town and provides phenomenal views.

This town is home to well known ski areas with the Matterhorn in the background and bustling streets. For an incredible hot tub view of the mountain, make sure you consider the beautiful BEAUSiTE Zermatt Hotel for your stay. 

Looking for something quieter and more relaxing? Consider the upscale and luxurious Gstaad . More luxury stores than souvenir shops, this town is a wonderful place to step out of reality.

Make sure to take the gondola up into the mountains and get a table at Bergrestaurant Eggli. Enjoy some cheese fondue and drink wine while appreciating the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

From gorgeous cities to charming chalet lined towns, its hard to go wrong on a getaway to Switzerland.

Recommended by Monica of Maxed Out PTO

Where to go in February continued…

Anyone else looking forward to escaping the cold with these best places to visit in February? Or maybe you are looking to bundle up and avoid the crowds in a chilly country. Whatever you choose, the world awaits!

• Region:  South America
• Fly into:  São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
• Average temp:  72 to 88 degrees F

When it comes to hot weather destinations in winter, one of the best countries to visit in February is Brazil.

Not only is February the height of summer, but it’s also when Brazil’s famous Carnival takes place. Therefore, it’s the best time to experience the country’s festivities, music, dance, and food.

Rio de Janeiro boasts the most iconic Carnival celebrations , but the whole country lights up with street parties, parades, and live concerts. So, no matter where you are, you’ll get a fantastic taste of Brazilian culture during this time.

February is an excellent time to soak up the sun and enjoy Brazil’s 2,000+ pristine beaches. And, although February is the busy season, the warm weather makes it an ideal time for sightseeing.

If you’re in Rio, make sure to visit Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and the iconic Copacabana boardwalk, which is most lively at this time of year.

February is also a great time to visit one of the country’s most famous natural wonders, Iguassu Falls. This is the world’s biggest network of waterfalls and is particularly impressive in February, as the water levels are at the highest.

For a truly memorable experience, you can even  see the falls from above  by taking a helicopter tour, or get wet on a speedboat ride down the Iguassu River!

The best way to get to Brazil is by flying to Sao Paolo or Rio de Janeiro, as there are direct flights from many North American and European cities. Once in Brazil, travel is relatively cheap and easy with the option of taking domestic flights or overnight buses.

Because there’s so much to see in Brazil, you really should allow yourself at least 10 days to explore as much as possible.

Recommended by Chanelle of Chasing Chanelle

25. St. Lucia (another top choice for places to go in February)

• Fly Into:  Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) or George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU)
• Average Temp:  83 degrees high / 72 degrees low

St. Lucia is a gorgeous island in the Eastern Caribbean Sea. It is an idyllic destination for a February getaway! Its appeal lies not only in its tropical climate but also in the vibrant atmosphere created by local festivals and events. You will have so much fun getting to know this island.

In February, the island hosts the St. Lucia Jazz Festival, attracting music enthusiasts from around the world. The event showcases a mix of local and international artists.

Additionally, you can enjoy music in the street every Friday of the year at the lively Gros Islet Street Party, located along the northern shore of the island.

February is a great time to visit St. Lucia as crowds are low. Peak tourist season picks up in March. Travelers can enjoy the serene beaches and explore attractions without crowds. Visiting the iconic Pitons, the famous volcanic peaks you’ll see in all the guidebooks, is a must.

Most visitors will stay on the West Side of the island near Soufrière or the north side closer to Rodney Bay. The west side is known as honeymooners paradise. The north side is known for lively culture and more affordable accommodations.

Cruise lines like  Virgin Voyages  pull into Castries port on the northern side of the island. Though cruises don’t stay in St. Lucia for long, they can be the most economical way to see the highlights of this fabulous island.

Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, St. Lucia easily fits on this list of the best country to visit in February!

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

26. Germany

• Region: Central Europe
• Fly into: Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC)
• Average temp: 42°F high, 27°F low

Wondering where to visit in the chilly month of February? Pack your winter woolies for a trip to the ever-charming capital of Bavaria, Munich.

Munich is easily reached by domestic or international flight. Book yourself at least two days for enjoying Bavarian beer hall culture and stunning Old-World buildings.

If fairytale town halls and toasty taverns weren’t enough to entice you, Munich has one of its most beloved traditions in late February – the vibrant Fasching Carnival.

Dating from the 1400’s, there’s special dance routines and a colorful parade of “silly” knights and nimble jesters that journey through the historical center right to the famous Hofbräuhaus. It’s also the perfect excuse to stop in for a stein of golden beer and a hearty schnitzel after the show is done.

The festivities run throughout the month of February; with joyful celebrations reaching their peak from the 19th – 21st . You’ll find the main stages set up at beautiful Marienplatz and the grand Stachus/Karlsplatz, with local performances running all day.

When you’re done enjoying the festival, Munich has so much more to see and do. Try out this carefully curated, self-guided walking tour of Munich – designed to show you around many of the city’s delightful attractions.

Don’t forget your warm winter jacket and comfy walking shoes so you’ll be ready to enjoy Munich without the crowds. Germany is by far one of the best countries to travel to in February!

Recommended by Jenelle of Happy Little Rover

• Fly into: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport
• Average temp: 57°F high, 38°F low (Rome)

Italy is the best place for a vacation in February if you’re keen on saving money and avoiding crowds.  Aside from skiing areas in Northern Italy , February is in the ‘low season’ in much of the rest of the country so you can score some amazing deals.

You’ll want to stay at least a week – preferably two – to see the most popular Italian cities.  The largest airport in Italy is just outside Rome, so this is the best place to begin your trip. 

Start off your stay in the Eternal City with a  golf cart tour of Rome . This is the best way to see the top sights – from the Colosseum to Trevi Fountain and Rome’s famous piazzas – without wearing yourself out on the first day of your vacation. 

The lower crowds in Italy in February means you’ll have a much easier time getting tickets to top attractions such as the Vatican, or world-class museums like the Uffizi in Florence.

February is of course the season of Carnevale. It’s celebrated all over Italy, but if you want to be a part of a truly amazing Carnevale, head to Venice. Experience the excitement of parades and masquerade balls along with the romance of taking a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. 

And if you’re in Catania, Sicily , don’t miss La Festa di Sant’Agata, which honors the city’s patron saint. This grand festival centers on one of the largest religious processions in the world!

Recommended by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

28. Mexico (convenient destination on this list of best countries to visit in February)

• Fly into: Cancun International Airport
• Average temp: 83°F high, 66°F low 

Mexico is an amazing destination for a winter trip if you are looking to escape colder climates. Both air and water temperatures are warm in February, which leaves you with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. 

Most tourists come for the beautiful beaches, refreshing cenotes, and ancient Mayan Ruins. Rainforests of Yucatan are also perfect for wildlife viewing . You would need at least a week to explore everything this region of Mexico has to offer. 

Fly into Cancun as it has the best tourist infrastructure on the peninsula. You have more options for hotels, car rentals, and restaurants than anywhere else in the region. You can choose to take guided tours from Cancun or explore the nearby attractions on your own in a rental car.

The Mayan architecture is the highlight of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Start by visiting Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arrive as early as possible to enjoy the world famous pyramid with fewer tourists. You can visit a few other archaeological sites nearby, like Uxmal and Tulum.

If you prefer to extend your trip by a few days, it is worth venturing out deeper into the country. You could choose to see Palenque or Calakmul ruins. Hidden in the rainforest, these mysterious ruins attract less people. They are the most remarkable of all Yucatan sites and worth a longer drive.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, the beautiful country of Mexico will be one of the most memorable places to travel to in February.

Recommended by Anastasia of Travel Realist

29. Malaysia

• Fly into:  Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
• Average temp:  86°F high, 72°F low

Malaysia is a one of the February best holiday destinations. Malaysia offers a lot of different experiences amidst pleasant weather conditions.

Winter – from December to February – is the best time to visit the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur.

The world’s highest twin towers, the Petronas Twin Towers, are a must-visit attraction in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, offering breathtaking views of the capital’s skyline.

To experience Malaysia, combine Kuala Lumpur with other west coast destinations. The charming George Town, on the island of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can wander through historic streets and indulge in as much street food as you can handle.

Then continue your journey to Langkawi, a tropical paradise where white sandy beaches and lush jungles – including different species of wild monkeys are waiting for you.

If possible, consider staying at least two weeks to combine Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi. However, if you have more time, add the UNESCO World Heritage town Malacca to your itinerary and include  day trips from Kuala Lumpur , too.

You can hike the famous mountain of Gunung Jasar in the Cameron Highlights, hike through one of the oldest rainforests in the world, Taman Negara, and visit the town of Ipoh, where you’ll find one of Malaysia’s biggest cave temples.

Malaysia’s cultural calendar is another reason to visit in February . Both Chinese New Year and Thaipusam are celebrated in this month.

The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is well-connected to most major cities in and beyond SouthEast Asia. Low-cost carrier AirAsia makes domestic travel between Kuala Lumpur and other destinations easy (and cheap).

Malaysia is one of the best countries to visit in February – it’s just a bonus that it’s also affordable!

Recommended by Marlieke of Kuala Lumpur with Kids

30. New Zealand

• Fly into: Auckland International Airport
• Average temp: 75°F high, 60°F low

New Zealand in February is perfect for those seeking an idyllic summer escape. During the last month of Kiwi summer, you’ll find warm and pleasant weather perfect for exploring they country’s beautiful national parks.

While February is still a popular month with visitors, the major summer holiday season has ended and local school holidays are over, so it’s easy to find some secluded spots to relax. 

Spend your time relaxing at the beach, enjoying the long daylight hours, and trying out a variety of outdoor activities. New Zealand is one of the absolute best places to go in February!

Explore geothermal wonders in Rotorua, spend some time enjoying the white, sandy beaches on the east coast, and go  bungy jumping in Queenstown .

Head up north to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on 6 February to mark the signing of New Zealand’s founding document with ceremonies, cultural performances and food.

Other festivals taking place in February include Napier’s Art Deco Festival, Splore, a festival of art and music, the New Zealand Festival of the Arts and the Wellington Wine and Food Festival. 

A popular way to see the country is by campervan. It’s a relatively affordable way to see New Zealand’s stunning landscapes up close – just check the camping restrictions before you go or stay in holiday park or campsite.

Recommended by Roxanne of Love Queenstown

Wow! What a list. With so many fun festivals and a diverse range of activities, the options for a February vacation are truly endless! Where will you head this February?

Here’s a quick recap of the best countries to visit in February, in a much quicker fashion!

Absolute best places to travel in February

• Turks and Caicos
• French Polynesia
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• New Zealand

Related content you might like: 34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure) 34 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold)

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Sylvia E. Lester

Sunday 28th of January 2024

Your blog has become my daily dose of positivity and inspiration It's a space that I always look forward to visiting

Monday 29th of January 2024

I'm so glad you found this guide inspiring, and that you love the content :)

Monday 20th of November 2023

Wow! What a blast! I'd like to go to New Zealand so much!

Saturday 2nd of December 2023

Yessss Alona! I hope you make it there soon :)

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

What a great listicle of top countries to visit in February! I'd love to try Finland during this time. Thanks for sharing your recommendations, I'll be saving this for future inspiration!

Oh cool Kelly! Glad you found some inspiration here 🩵

Saturday 21st of October 2023

I think February is one of the best times to visit New Zealand (the later in the month, the better). It's the best temperatures, and you avoid the school holiday traffic.

Ah yes Rhonda! I mean, New Zealand anytime of year sounds awesome but it's definitely deserving of a spot for the month of February, too :)

This is an awesome listm never heard of Turks and Caicos before. The beach locations are stunning. Seychelles and Maldives are at the top of my bucketlist

So glad you found some inspiration Sinjana! Turks and Caicos is one of my absolute favorite Caribbean destinations. Sounds like we both love beachy spots!

Costa Rica in May: Guide to Weather, Where to Go, What to Do

C osta Rica in May is the start of the rainy season throughout most of the country. It is a great time to visit, but there are a few things you should know as you plan your trip.

Thomas and I created this post to detail the pros and cons of May in Costa Rica. We have lived in Costa Rica since 2016, so we are somewhat experts on the weather you can expect each month of the year. We also included tips on what to pack, the best areas to visit, and the pros and cons of this time of year.

So, let’s get to all the tips to make sure you have an amazing experience while visiting Costa Rica during the month of May.

Costa Rica in May at a Glance

• This is a transition month between the end of dry season and the start of rainy season. Weather will be hot and sunny with occasional afternoon rain showers on the Pacific Coast.
• Typically tourism starts to go down a bit at this time of year. That means prices also get a bit lower.
• Focus on sun-blocking clothing, high SPF sunscreen, bug spray, rain protection, and lots of water for hydration. This time of year is humid!

Should You Travel to Costa Rica in May? 

We say definitely! It’s actually one of the best months of the year to visit Costa Rica (in our opinion).

Pros of Visiting Costa Rica in May

• The weather should be good. We go into the weather details further in this post, but in general, you can expect perfectly sunny days, afternoon rain storms, and warm evenings.
• Everything will be open at this time. Sometimes later in the year tour companies and hotels close because there are just not enough tourists for there to be a reason to stay open.
• Everything starts turning green again after the dry season, and it is so beautiful!
• There are still a lot of tourists, but it is not as busy as peak high season ( January – April).
• You can expect what is referred to as “mid-season prices”. That means rates aren’t as high as in peak season, but not as low as later in the year when the chance of rain is higher. 
• Hotels, activities etc, aren’t as full.
• Wildlife can be more active because the temperatures cool down a bit. It’s a great time to visit national parks !

Cons of Visiting Costa Rica in May

• This is the beginning of the green season and you may have to contend with afternoon rain.
• Rates go down a bit, but not as much as later in the year
• The mosquitoes tend to be worse in the rainy season versus dry season

Costa Rica Weather in May

​​May is the start of the rainy season in many parts of Costa Rica, which means you can expect some wet weather during your visit. 

The weather can vary significantly depending on where you are in the country. 

The sun rises daily around 5:15 am and sets around 5:50 pm. 

One thing to keep in mind is that the weather forecast online is never correct during the rainy season. They typically predict rain showers all day long. This is luckily all lies.

Pacific Coast

On the Pacific Coast, we suggest getting up as early as possible. Usually, you won’t really be able to sleep in anyway because the however monkeys and other loud wildlife will make sure you are up early.

In our opinion, the early morning hours are the very best time of the day. It’s beautiful!

You can expect hot days (mid 80’s Fahrenheit) with plenty of sunshine until the early afternoon.

Around 2pm the afternoon rain storms usually roll in. These storms typically last for an hour or two. This is a great time to take a little siesta. 

After that, the weather tends to cool off a bit. But, “cools off” is a relative term. Really, it typically gets down to the mid to high seventies Fahrenheit. 

The evenings tend to be clear with nice sunset views. 

After sunset, you will need bug spray.

On the northern Pacific Coast in the Guanacaste Province , you can expect even less rain. Typically this area tends to stay dry a bit longer.

San Jose & Central Valley

San Jose and the Central Valley area is always bit cooler than the Pacific Coast.

The average daytime temperatures range from around 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), while nighttime temperatures usually drop to around 60°F to 65°F (16°C to 18°C).

Just note that temperatures can vary depending on the specific location within the Central Valley. Higher elevation areas tend to be cooler.

Northern Mountains   

The Northern Mountains region consists of La Fortuna and Monteverde.

The days should be clear enough that you will be able to enjoy good views in mountain towns. For example, Arenal Volcano should be mostly clear for viewing. 

In Monteverde , you may have more rain. Usually, it is not super heavy, but the rain can occur more throughout the day and tends not to be limited to only the afternoons. 

Caribbean Coast

The Caribbean Coast has the opposite rainy and dry season the Pacific Coast. May in the Caribbean can mean heavier rains. In our experience, usually, it rains more in the evening than during the day, but you never know.

Average highs range from 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C) and lows from 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C).

What to Pack for Costa Rica in May

In May, layers are also a good idea because it can get cool in the evenings after the daily rain. 

• Lightweight and breathable clothing (shorts, T-shirts, tank tops). We suggest opting for moisture-wicking clothing that also blocks UV rays. 
• Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight pants for cooler evenings and sun protection
• Swimsuits for beach and water activities
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring
• Rain jacket for occasional showers during the transition to the rainy season
• Sunglasses for sun protection

Weather-Specific Items:

• Sunscreen (high SPF) for sun protection in the tropical climate
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes, especially during evenings
• Daypack for carrying essentials during day trips and excursions. I suggest a dry bag. 
• Plastic bags or waterproof pouches for protecting electronics and important documents from rain

Outdoor and Adventure Gear:

• Sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes for exploring natural trails. We like Keens .
• Pocket binoculars for wildlife viewing, especially in national parks
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities. I suggest LifeStraw bottles .
• A glasses strap to keep your sunglasses secure during adventures like zip lining and boat trips
• Quick-dry microfiber travel towel for convenience on the go

Electronics and Accessories:

• Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife
• Portable charger to keep devices powered during outdoor excursions

Health and Safety:

• Travel first aid kit with basic medications, bandages, and any necessary prescriptions
• Motion sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to travel on winding roads or if you plan to take boat trips
• Hydration tablets or electrolyte supplements for staying hydrated in the warm weather
• Hat with a wide brim for added sun protection, especially during outdoor activities

Miscellaneous Items:

• Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, itinerary)
• Zip lock bags to separate wet items in your luggage

Check out our complete packing list for women and packing list for men for more ideas of what to bring.

The Best Places to Visit and Places to Avoid

There is nowhere I would suggest completely avoiding. You will likely have more rain on the Caribbean Coast, but it is a beautiful area to visit.

As always, you can expect more tourists in the bigger towns (La Fortuna, Monteverde, Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Jaco, Manuel Antonio) but it shouldn’t be too crazy. 

Things to Do at this Time of Year

This is a great time of year for pretty much all activities. When booking your Costa Rica tours, keep in mind that there may be afternoon storms. We like to try and schedule as much as we can in the morning to avoid the possibility of being rained out. 

Some of our favorite activities are:

• Visit a Waterfall : The water levels will be a bit higher than during the dry season, so you can enjoy a better experience.
• Go Hiking in a National Park : We love it when everything turns lush and green again. Plus, with fewer crowds, the national parks are super enjoyable. This is a great time to go to Corcovado National Park or Manuel Antonio National Park .
• Go Zip Lining : Again, with everything starting to turn green and vibrant in May it is a great time to get overhead views of the jungle canopy with a zip-lining adventure. We suggest this activity in Monteverde or La Fortuna .
• Take a Catamaran Sunset Tour : This is a fun activity to do after the brief afternoon rain shower. A catamaran tour typically includes a fun time out on a nice boat, Usually, these tours are a bit cheaper than in the high season.
• Visit the Beautiful Beaches : It is always a good time to visit the amazing beaches. All beaches in Costa Rica need to have free public access by law. That means there is thousands of miles of coastline for you to explore.

Booking Transportation

Typically, we think renting a car is the best way to easily get around.

In May, demand isn’t as high, but it is still best to book somewhat early because things can still book out.

Adobe Rent-a-Car

• 10% discount for Costa Rica Vibes readers
• Free second driver
• 0% deductible on Liability Protection Insurance
• Excellent customer service
• New fleet of well-maintained vehicles

Some other transportation options you might consider are:

• Book a shared shuttle on BookAway
• Book a private shuttle with Adobe Transfers

Booking Hotels

We like to use Booking.com and reserve places with free cancellations up to a certain date. This will give you the most flexibility if your plans change or if you find a better option. Just make sure to remember to cancel in time!

We also really like VRBO for booking villas or houses. Again, we suggest filtering by places that allow free cancellation if you are concerned about your plans possibly changing.

When booking a place make sure it has AC. sometimes you might be fine with just an electric fan, but we have definitely learned to give preference to places with AC because the evenings can stay semi-warm. 

Holidays and Festivals

There is one Costa Rican national holiday in May.

Labor Day : May 1st is celebrated as Labor Day in Costa Rica, and it is a public holiday. Many businesses and shops are closed, and there are often parades and demonstrations in the major cities.

Another fun festival is, Día de San Isidro Labrador on On May 15th. This event is observed in various towns near San Jose such as San Isidro de Heredia, Perez Zeledon, and Atenas.

This festivity pays homage to the patron saint of farming. It features vibrant parades, traditional cuisine, and a ceremonial blessing of the crops.

Our Travel Tips for Visiting Costa Rica in May

• Check out flying into both the San Jose and Liberia Airport for your trip to Costa Rica in May. More and more flights are flying into Liberia Airport and sometimes you might find great deals. We like San Jose Airport because it is very centrally located, but Liberia is a lot less hectic and great if you are planning to visit the Guanacaste Province or Northern Mountain region. 
• If you need more info, we have a complete guide to Costa Rica weather with more details of what to expect in every month.
• Don’t forget travel insurance. Since we suggest booking everything as early as possible. It is always good to have travel insurance if your travel plans change. 

Do You Have Travel Insurance?

Don’t let unexpected medical expenses or trip interruptions overshadow your dream Costa Rican vacation.  

Secure your worry-free Costa Rican adventure with Heymondo travel insurance

Conclusion: Costa Rica in May

In conclusion, May is a great month to visit Costa Rica for a fun and unique experience. Get ready for sunny days, afternoon rains, and lush landscapes!

While May is part of the rainy season, don’t let the occasional showers dampen your spirits. Just remember to pack lightweight rain gear, insect repellent, and you’ll have an amazing experience!

So what do you think? Are you ready to plan your Costa Rica vacation in May and enjoy the start of the green season? If you have any questions about visiting at this time of year, just leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you out!

You Might Also Like:

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The post Costa Rica in May: Guide to Weather, Where to Go, What to Do appeared first on Costa Rica Vibes .

When is the best time to visit United States of America?

The info on this page is based on historical averages and might not reflect current conditions. Check with local authorities for the latest travel advice.

The best time to travel domestically in the US is either during spring (late March to late May ) or autumn (late September to late October ). Since these are the shoulder seasons before and after summer, these months have milder temperatures as well as fewer visitors in the most popular destinations.

From east to west, the US measures 1,665 miles across – and in that range, there are five climate regions. So, the best time to travel domestically in the US really does depend on what specific location you have in mind. If you’re not particular about when you're traveling, then spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant times to travel domestically.

Lasting from mid- March to late May , spring brings warm temperatures and beautiful natural scenery to the national parks, forests, and wetlands of southern states like California , Florida , and Nevada . The northern states and cities take some time to catch up – but when they do, New York , Washington D.C. , and Chicago make for popular city getaways. Similarly, fall guarantees pleasant weather and beautiful autumnal landscapes in many parts of the country. So for lovers of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping, these shoulder seasons are the perfect time to make the trip.

More about the best time to visit United States of America

• Weather and temperature
• Month-by-month cost
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• United States of America reviews
• Travel articles

Monthly weather and travel tips for United States of America

After the excitement of Christmas, things are much quieter across the country in January . The northern states in particular can feel bleak with short days and heavy snowfall affecting many regions. So you’ll need to bring your thickest winter coat to stay toasty in cities like Boston and New York , as well as Philadelphia , which hosts its annual Mummers Parade on New Year's Day. Instead of avoiding the snow, embrace it at ski resorts like Park City , Utah and Aspen , Colorado – both famous for their powder skiing and the latter for the Winter X Games competition held at the end of the month.

By contrast, southern states like Florida , Louisiana , and Texas are much warmer with average highs of 60–65°F. Southern California also attracts its fair share of sun seekers in January , mainly to the beaches of Orange County and laid-back San Diego , or the desert landscapes of Palm Springs , Joshua Tree , and Death Valley . But Hawaii is the place to go if you really want to escape the winter blues, with temperatures fixed in the low to mid 70s every day.

In February , the days are cold and dark across many of the northern states. However, it’s a great time to enjoy cozy mountain resorts and take advantage of discount prices at major destinations like Chicago and Washington D.C. You could time your trip with President's Day or the Superbowl if you don't mind the crowds. Alternatively, head into the wilderness of Wyoming and Montana for wolf-watching safaris and dog-sledding adventures – but be sure to bring your warmest clothes.

In the southwest, travelers flock to the Grand Canyon to see it covered in snow, or further east to New Orleans . There, locals and visitors alike will be gearing up for the legendary parades and masquerade balls of Mardi Gras at the end of the month. It’s much warmer down there during February , so make sure you pack lighter clothing and a colorful costume if you're planning to visit then.

With the first buds of spring, many Americans—especially those in the south—start thinking about festivals and holidays again. States like Georgia , Tennessee , and California start to warm up around this time, and it’s usually during March when many young travelers descend on Florida for spring break. This is the warmest part of the country, with average highs of about 72°F and more beaches than you can think of.

But the change isn’t quite so obvious further north, where continued snowfall keeps the ski season going strong in states like Utah , Colorado , and Wyoming . You’ll need to wear plenty of layers if you’re planning a trip to cities like Boston or New York – two cities who duke it out every year to host the best St. Patrick’s Day parade. At the end of the month, there’s nowhere better than Washington D.C. , where hundreds of pink and white cherry blossoms bloom around the capital’s Tidal Basin during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

In April , the northern states can finally start shaking off the winter chill. Temperatures can climb into the mid-60s and sunny days start rolling in. However, much of the snow is replaced by rain—especially in coastal regions including New England and the Pacific Northwest —so it’s best to come prepared for wet and windy weather.

Down south, it’s road-tripping season. If you’re planning a cross-country drive, April is a great month to see the southern national parks while avoiding the summer crowds. The ones in Utah and Arizona are great options to explore while en route to Las Vegas , Nevada . Sin City isn’t too hot this time of year, and hosts its annual Great Vegas Festival of Beer at the beginning of the month. Other major events taking place in April include California ’s Coachella Music Festival, Miami ’s Wine and Food Festival, New Orleans ’ Jazz & Heritage Festival, and The Boston Marathon. Other holidays this month include Easter Sunday and Earth Day ( April 22), which are are celebrated nationwide.

April showers bring May flowers – or so the saying goes. By now, most of the country will be in full bloom. With daily highs of 64–73°F, it’s also warm enough to explore northern cities like New York , Chicago , and Washington D.C. without worrying about the cold – though you might want to take a light waterproof jacket just in case.

These peak conditions make May a prime time to experience the country’s natural wonders too. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Utah ’s many national parks are especially great to visit this time of year since the wildlife comes out of hibernation, while California ’s Death Valley is in peak condition for amazing views of the Milky Way. The month’s big event is Cinco de Mayo, so try to enjoy the festivities wherever you may be. Then say hello to summer, as you ring in Memorial Day on the last Monday of the month.

The beginning of June is arguably the sweet spot for domestic travel in the US . For a week or two, the weather is warm and sunny almost everywhere you go, and there aren't too many tourists around yet. It’s a great time to visit national parks such as California ’s Yosemite , when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular as the high-altitude snow causes rushing meltwater. Festival season is also in full swing, with major events including Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival (Manchester, Tennessee ) and the legendary San Francisco Pride parade taking place.

Further north, temperatures will be a little cooler but still consistently warm – especially in waterfront cities like Cleveland , Providence , and Atlantic City . There’s no shortage of events either. Take Chicago ’s Blues Festival—a free, three-day party celebrating blues and jazz—or New York ’s aqua-themed Mermaid Parade on Coney Island . But the main attraction is "Summerfest," held each June in Milwaukee , Wisconsin , and currently the biggest domestic music festival.

July is one of the hottest and most crowded months to travel domestically in the US . With schools being out for the summer, American families join tourists at the national parks and beach resorts all over the country – so you’ll need to book your trips well in advance. Temperatures stay comfortably within the high 70s and hit the mid-80s in southwestern cities like Austin , Texas , and Phoenix , Arizona . It’s more humid in the east, but occasional thunderstorms help cool things down.

If you want to get away for Fourth of July, one of the less rainy cities is best so you can still enjoy a barbecue with your family and don't miss the fireworks. July is also great for exploring the otherwise rainy Pacific Northwest , when it's mostly sunny even in cities like Seattle and Portland . The former hosts the Bite of Seattle food festival in July , while the latter goes craft beer-crazy at the Oregon Brewers Festival. Other July highlights include Santa Fe ’s Folk Art Festival and Taste of Chicago – the largest food festival in the world.

Expect sweltering heat in August , with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below the mid-80s in the south. It’s also very humid in some eastern cities and regions, from which the best escape will be your nearest waterfront. But brace yourself – most beaches are packed with city dwellers and families cramming in one final summer vacation before school restarts. However, that also means lower rates and thinner crowds in otherwise crowded destinations like New York , Chicago , and Los Angeles .

The good news is that the US has thousands of miles of glorious coastline to explore, from the shorelines of New England to the beaches of the Carolinas and Southern California ’s Pacific Coast . You could also take the opportunity to explore mountainous national parks such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton , both in Wyoming . Another option are the national parks in Alaska , with long and mild days during August . Elsewhere, the Iowa State Fair runs in Des Moines for most of the month, while tennis fans rush to see world pros take to the court at New York ’s thrilling US Open.

September brings calm and cooler temperatures to much of the country, with only the hottest cities in the south featuring daytime temperatures above 86°F. Don't forget that September also marks the start of hurricane season in Florida , so it’s probably best to avoid it then. 9/11 is also in September, which is observed with the Tribute in Light at Ground Zero in New York City.

You'll find festivals all over the country in September . It kicks off with Labor Day, with New York ’s Electric Zoo music festival and the Detroit Jazz Festival being two of the most popular ones. California ’s wine harvest also occurs in September , while beer and bratwurst lovers celebrate the arrival of Oktoberfest to cities such as Cincinnati and Pittsburgh . But the ultimate party is none other than Burning Man – a 9-day jamboree of electro music, stunning artwork, and community spirit in the middle of Nevada ’s Black Rock Desert .

Temperatures drop in style in October , as golden-red tones wash over the trees across the northern states. It's not too cold though, so you can comfortably explore the forests of New England and look for the viewpoints to admire the kaleidoscopic canopies. Other autumn leaf hotspots include the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee , as well as Lake of the Ozarks , Missouri .

The southern states cool down but are still a bit warm, so now would be a good time to experience the dazzling lights and sights of Las Vegas . Further south, Fantasy Fest— Key West 's answer to Mardi Gras—brings tens of thousands to the subtropical enclave in the ten days before Halloween. And Halloween itself is a big deal no matter where you celebrate it, with Halloween-themed parades taking place in New York , New York, Los Angeles , California, and Salem , Massachusetts .

Tourist numbers drop off sharply in November , as winter takes hold. Cold winds blow through many of the northern states, bringing plenty of rain and even snowfall to some. Down in Florida , the end of hurricane season triggers the start of a warm but drier period that makes it ideal for visiting the theme parks of Orlando . So what you pack really does depend on which region you visit, since the northern and southern climates are very different this time of year.

November also features Veterans Day on November 11, and Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of the month. Wake up early to catch the Macy’s Day Parade in New York , or stay up late to take advantage of the many Black Friday doorbusters around the country.

December is a busy month across the country. Not only do the streets of major cities become filled with Christmas shoppers, but it’s also the month that ski season kicks off in the Rockies . Resorts in Colorado , Wyoming , Montana , Idaho , and Utah are busy with winter sports lovers, determined to make the most of the fresh snowfall. Meanwhile, cities across the east and midwest are illuminated with incredible holiday displays—including European-style markets and ice-skating rinks—leading up to Christmas. You’ll need to bundle up if you're visiting the north in December – and it’s best to book your stays well in advance in order to avoid the highest rates.

Elsewhere, southern destinations like Miami and San Diego are still warm enough so that you can walk around in a t-shirt. Close out the year with a bang—literally—by watching fireworks on New Year's Eve, or the Times Square ball drop if you're determined enough to brave the crowds. December is also the best time of year to see the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the northern lights, throughout Alaska .

Weather and temperature in United States of America

Knowing the best time to visit domestically in the US depends on what you’re looking for in a trip. If weather is your main concern, remember that the US contains five distinct climate regions that vary significantly at any given time of the year. However, you'll generally find the best weather around spring and autumn across most of these regions.

The Northeast—home to cities such as New York , Boston , and Philadelphia —is usually around 48°F in spring and 52°F in the fall, with frequent showers across the region. In contrast, the sun-kissed cities of the Southwest like Los Angeles , San Francisco , and San Diego bask in temperatures of 53–63°F through both shoulder seasons. Further up the West Coast, Portland and Seattle are cooler and wetter. Late spring temperatures are warmer in Midwest hotspots like Chicago and Columbus but can get chilly in autumn, while Southeastern cities like Miami , Orlando , and New Orleans experience average highs of 66–72°F in both seasons.

Weather data provided by Forecast.io

Cost of stay in United States of America

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The best places to visit in United States of America

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April is the best month to visit wetlands. Here's why

With April half gone, I would like to think most of our winter-like weather has passed. No doubt more will come, but the earth’s warming won’t be denied. As days slowly lengthen, a flood of new life will engulf us.

Here are a few of the wonderful things we can look forward to in the coming fortnight:

In woodlands, my favorite birds will arrive. Yellow-bellied sapsuckers will drum out their Morse Code announcements, meant to attract mates and discourage other males from trespassing. Overhead, newly arrived broad-winged hawks (all the way from South America) will wheel in tight circles as they call out pee-eeee , almost too high for humans to hear.

On the forest floor, hermit thrushes will flash rusty-red tails as they kick through loose leaves seeking early bird beetles and worms.

That same forest floor will be showing off flowers, among them spring beauties, trout lily and a spring patch of white trillium. Another plot of rich loamy soil might yield Dutchman’s britches, blue cohosh or a nice clump of cut-leaved toothwort.

Wild leeks will be thrusting their spear-shaped leaves skyward. And high in a pine, looking down on it all, a great horned owl parent will perch by its fuzzy fledgling.

More: Remembering this trip down Autumn Leaves Road: 2016 field journal

Mid- to late April just might be the best time to visit a favorite wetland. At its edges, their feet wet by choice, will grow skunk cabbage and buttercup-yellow cowslips. Flower field guides call cowslips marsh marigolds. But I speak at a lot of senior centers, where folks in their 80s grew up as farm kids, and their parents took them looking for cowslips. The leaves of this plant, when brand new, make a tasty boiled green.

In the wetland itself, painted turtles will bask on semi-submerged loafing logs, while in ankle-deep water, amid shoots of rushes, meadow frogs will call out with a sound much like snoring to attract other meadows for mating.

Other sounds will skim over the wetland’s still water: whoo-eek from a female wood duck as she streaks past, her bright-colored mate close behind; whoops, coos and kuk-kuk-kuk notes from a pied-billed grebe hidden in cattails.

More: Get familiar with your outdoor surroundings and find wonder in the smallest changes

And close to shore, walkers might scare up a snipe or reclusive American bittern. Both birds migrate through upstate wetlands as late April pushes toward May.

Down by the river, who knows what you’ll find? An eagle’s white head poking over the edge of a massive stick nest in the fork of a tall sycamore? An osprey, perhaps, overhead on the wing, looking down in the shallows for carp?

And at home, fine grass nests will lie snug in the bottom of boxes folks place in back yards. Eastern bluebirds will be perching nearby. Nearby, on top of a handy eavestrough, eastern phoebes will be crafting their nest made of mud, moss and grasses.

I’ve run out of space. This is such a small sampling. Let the spring flood commence its outpouring.

E-mail Rick at [email protected]

Watch CBS News

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.? See the paths for the 2044 and 2045 events

By Cara Tabachnick

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 2:31 AM EDT / CBS News

Eclipse-watchers waited more than six years since the last time a total solar eclipse charted its way across the United States,  in 2017 . After the  April 8 event , prepare to wait a lot longer — the next chance won't be coming around any time soon.

Viewers in what's called " the path of totality " saw the moon completely block the sun  — an opportunity those in North America won't have again for 20-plus years. The next total solar eclipses in North America are not anticipated until 2044 and 2045.

"A total solar eclipse is one of the most spectacular things anyone can see in their lifetime," Virginia Tech astrophysicist Nahum Arav told CBS News. The eclipse "looks like a black hole in the sky," said Arav, who watched the paths of totality of eclipses in 1991 and 2017.

Monday's eclipse started around 11:07 a.m. PDT on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, and then moved into Texas . The eclipse's visibility tracked  through 15 states  — Oklahoma, Illinois , Ohio,  Pennsylvania , New York , Vermont ,  New Hampshire  and Maine , among them — before heading northward into Canada and then exiting North America.

Even with spotty weather in some states, millions of people from coast to coast saw a partial solar eclipse, in which the moon partially covers the sun. However, only those within the path of totality experienced the darkness of the total solar eclipse. 

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after the 2024 eclipse?

Solar eclipses happen about twice a year, said Arav. "Eclipses happen all over the Earth evenly," he told CBS News — but noted the timings when they occur are not regular. That means  eclipses can occur within just a few years, or every few decades, in North America.

Before the eclipse in 2017, the last total solar eclipse to cross North America was in 1979 . That was the first eclipse whose path of totality crossed the entire continent in 99 years. 

Even though eclipses may seem to occur randomly, scientists can pinpoint exactly when and where they will happen.

"There is no ambiguity, as we know exactly where it will land," said Arav. 

There will be eight total solar eclipses visible from North America in the 21st century, Arav said, with one occurring about every 12 years, on average.   

The next total solar eclipse to cross North America is predicted to occur on Aug. 23, 2044 , NASA said. However, the path of totality from this eclipse will only touch three states, according to  The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to public interest in space.  

This next eclipse will mainly be observed in Canada, Arav said. 

Path of totality for the 2044 total solar eclipse

The 2044 eclipse will start in Greenland on Aug. 23, 2044, and will continue its path through Canada. 

The 2044 total solar eclipse will be short, mostly appearing in Canada. It will be visible from three states in the U.S.: Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.  

The path of totality will cross Williston and Dickinson, North Dakota, and Great Falls, Montana.

Path of totality for the 2045 total solar eclipse

The next solar eclipse that crosses a significant portion of the continental U.S. will be in 2045, said Arav. That year, a solar eclipse will darken skies in parts of the U.S., Haiti, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname and Brazil. 

In North America, the 2045 total eclipse will be visible in many states as it moves from coast to coast. The eclipse will start in California and move east to end in Florida, similar to 2017, Arav said. 

There will be numerous U.S. cities where eclipse watchers can view the total eclipse, including Reno, Nevada; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Orlando, Florida.

Future solar eclipses in North America after 2045

Scientists have predicted eight total solar eclipses will appear in North America in the 21st century.

"Natural phenomena are like a Swiss clock," Arav said. "We know exactly when and where they will appear."

After the 2044 and 2045 total solar eclipses, the next total eclipses in North America will occur in 2078 and 2099.

May 11, 2078

This total solar eclipse on May 11, 2078 , will pass over the southern United States.

Cities include:

Atlanta, Georgia

New Orleans, Louisiana

Charlotte, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Sept. 14, 2099

This total solar eclipse on Sept. 14, 2099 , will cross a wide swath of the United States.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Chicago, Illinois

Columbus, Ohio

Fargo, North Dakota

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor and journalist at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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The Top 10 Best Places to Go Birdwatching in America

Plan your next vacation around these cool spots.

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Think about it: what could be better than combining your two favorite obsessions: birding and travel ? Especially when some of the world's best birdwatching can be found within America's borders, in places as pretty as northern California and coastal Maine? Best of all, the following avian hangouts are so dense in winged wonders (hellllooo Platte River Valley!) you don't need to be an expert to spot some stunning species. And some destinations, like the legendary Rio Grande Valley, are home to birds you won't find anywhere else in the nation, giving even the most experienced twitchers a chance to expand their life list (the inventory of birds a birder has spotted in their lifetime).

Many of the following vacation hotspots, which are sprinkled throughout the U.S., are best to visit in spring or fall, when long-distance migrants are moving through on their way to or from Central or South America. Some provide special birding opportunities in summer, or even winter. But all are definitely for the birds!

Acadia National Park, Maine

Thanks to an incredibly diverse landscape, ranging from wild, water-swept coastline to verdant forest and barren, rocky mountaintop, more than 300 species of birds call the nearly 50,000 acres of Acadia National Park in Maine home. That includes the 20-plus species of warblers that nest in spring and summer on Mount Desert Island, though the park is a birder's paradise in all seasons.

Popular annual avian events include the Acadia Birding Festival in early summer and autumn's Cadillac Mountain Hawk Watch, a prime time to check out the thousands of raptors that descend on the area as they head south for the winter.

Looking to spot the iconic (if slightly silly-looking) puffin? Maine is the only state to boast breeding populations of the bird, which nest on offshore islands (not technically part of the park) come warm weather. Tour boats that visit the islands leave from Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia, and other towns along the coast.

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico

Tucked away between the Chupadera and San Pascual mountains along the Rio Grand River, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1939 to provide an overwintering habitat for migrating waterfowl. By November each year, the refuge's nearly 60,000 acres play host to sandhill cranes, ducks, and snow and Ross's geese numbering in the tens of thousands.

The birds' return to the refuge is celebrated annually in late fall with the Festival of the Cranes , while the springtime migration—known for visiting and nesting flycatchers, vireos, and a dozen species of warblers—gets its own special event in May. Spring is also a good time to catch sight of the legendary greater roadrunner (maybe even with a coyote in hot pursuit).

Although summer in the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge can get as sultry as you might expect, birders who head out in the morning and evening hours may be rewarded with sightings of black-chinned, broad-tailed, calliope and rufous hummingbirds.

Plan Your Trip

Cape May, New Jersey

Named by National Geographic as one of the best places in the world to birdwatch, Cape May is blessed with a location along the Atlantic Flyway (a sort of north-south super-skyway for migrating birds), westerly winds and a range of habitats pleasing to our fine feathered friends. Thanks to these and other factors, as many as a whopping 400 species of birds visit Cape May during fall migration.

Songbirds galore like vireos, tanagers, grosbeaks, warblers, buntings, and orioles flood the peninsula in September and October, along with raptors such as falcons, hawks and eagles. Ideal viewing spots include the Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area and Cape May Point State Park , but be sure to keep an eye for smaller flying critters. The area's famed monarch butterfly migration usually begins in late September and continues through mid-October.

Cape May Bird Observatory and New Jersey Audubon coordinate a wealth of fun events in Cape May throughout the year, from migration watches to fall and spring festivals and The World Series of Birding . Held every May, the fundraiser benefits bird conservation by challenging teams to count the most species in a 24-hour period.

Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona

Cave Creek Canyon , which sits pretty at 5,000 feet, on the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains, is home to the elusive elegant trogon. One of the country's most sought-after birds by hobbyists, this beautiful metallic-green and scarlet red fellow's range in the U.S. is mostly limited to southeastern Arizona. You'll find him summering here, in this stunning slice of Coronado National Forest, most likely near the south fork of Cave Creek.

Of course, as rare as the elegant trogon is, he's just one of as many as 370-some species birders may see in the canyon, including a dozen species of hummingbirds in the summertime.

Thanks in part to the area's astounding biological diversity, which ranges from desert to grassland and various types of woodlands and forests, species as varied as the Western screech owl, the sulphur-bellied flycatcher, the cactus wren, the hairy woodpecker, and the majestic golden eagle all thrive in Cave Creek Canyon.

Central Park, New York

It may seem counterintuitive to recommend a park nestled within a bustling city as a haven for birders. But Central Park , an 843-acre rectangle that dates to the mid-19th century, provides a critical pit stop for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway. Spring and fall are thus the peak birding seasons, with as many as 30 warbler species sometimes seen on a single day. In total, more than 280 bird species have been recorded in Central Park.

The best places for birding in the park include the 40-acre North Woods; The Ramble, featuring a leafy canopy and feeders to entice avian creatures; and The Pond. It's frequented by everything from great egrets to majestic red-tail hawks, which are year-round Big Apple residents. Peregrine falcons, another raptor favorite, also are permanent fixtures in Central Park (as are dedicated local birders, who are usually happy to point out birds to fellow enthusiasts).

Otherwise, in the wintertime keep an eye out for six species of owls, including the great-horned, barred, and northern saw-whet. Spring brings everything from cuckoos to flycatchers, kinglets and freshwater sandpipers. In fall, along with warblers, Central Park trees fill with sparrows, thrushes, and birds of prey.

Everglades National Park, Florida

The largest subtropical wilderness in the country, Everglades National Park sprawls across 1.5 million acres in southern Florida but can be easily accessed via entrances in Miami, Everglades City, and Homestead. The dry season, which lasts from December to April, is best for birding. Not only are there fewer mosquitos, but the warm winters attract the greatest variety of wading birds.

They include the wood stork—once endangered and still federally listed as threatened—the pink-plumed roseate spoonbill, the least bittern, the glossy ibis and an array of egrets and herons. Some of the other 360-some species seen in the park include the brilliant blue indigo bunting, the pleasingly acrobatic purple martin and the little yellow warbler.

There are a number of trails in Everglades National Park popular for birding, most accessible from the main entrance in Homestead, but the "River of Grass" can also be explored via everything from trams to airboats. Guided birdwatching tours are available from both park rangers and outside companies .

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ohio

A refuge for 36 species of migrating warblers (including the endangered Kirtland's warbler) and more than 100 species of other songbirds, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area serves up some of the country's best birding come mid-May. In total, around 310 species of birds have been found here in spring, but the 2,200 acres of unspoiled wetlands along western Lake Erie draw plentiful species of birds in the fall, too. They include jaw-dropping numbers of waterfowl like Canada geese, mallards, green- and blue-winged teal and gadwall.

The well-maintained trails at Magee Marsh make birding here a bit less taxing than at some other avian-rich destinations. Most notably, the mile-long Magee Boardwalk offers twitchers a stellar view of neotropical migrants without having to work up a sweat. Meanwhile, birders should head to Hawkwatch Tower to see bald eagles, a wide array of hawk species, and osprey soar in the springtime.

The Biggest Week in American Birding , an annual 10-day extravaganza that takes place each May in northwest Ohio, will offer two daily guided walks at Magee Marsh, along with a wide range of other field trips, workshops, and special events.

Platte River Valley, Nebraska

Dubbed one of the planet's greatest migrations, the mind-boggling influx of one million sandhill cranes into the Platte River Valley should be on every birder's bucket list. Each year, beginning in mid-February, 80 percent of the world's population of the tall, leggy, crimson-capped wading birds descend on central Nebraska. They stay until early April, taking a well-earned breather before heading on to their breeding grounds in Alaska, Canada, and Siberia.

Among the world's oldest birds, the sandhill cranes spend their days in farm fields, chowing down on corn leftover from fall's harvest. They return to the safety of the Platte's shallow waters to roost at sunset, making dusk and dawn ideal times for crane watching. Blinds line the river; other perches include Fort Kearny Bridge in Kearney and Plautz Viewing Platform , south of Gibbon.

Or, visit Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary for guided sunrise and sunset crane tours. They also offer an overnight photography experience for dedicated shutterbugs who don't mind spending the night in a blind.

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

According to the folks at Point Reyes National Seashore , their piece of the Northern California coast "claims the prize for the greatest avian diversity of any national park." Nearly 490 species, or over half of all North American bird species, have been observed there. This staggering number is due to the park's more than 70,000 acres of diverse, unspoiled habitat; coastal location; advantageous latitude; and the 10-mile projection of the peninsula into the sea, which attracts "vagrants," birds that have made navigation errors during migration.

Its location on the Pacific Flyway (like the Atlantic Flyway, a major north-south skyway for migrating birds), means that fall and spring are plenty productive in Point Reyes, though the winter months offer great flocks of waterbirds thousands strong. Head to Limantour Estero or Bolinas Lagoon to catch grebes, cormorants, pelicans, kingfishers, ducks, and more, while Abbotts Lagoon is home to coots, black-shouldered kites, Caspian terns, a variety of raptors and nests of the threatened western snowy plover. (The threatened northern spotted owl also flourishes in the park.)

The park hosts several annual ornithological events throughout the year, like spring's Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival , which boasts a wide variety of guided birding walks, and the Point Reyes Christmas Bird Count , with hundreds of volunteers tallying up the birds they observe throughout the day.

Rio Grande Valley, Texas

It's almost impossible to beat the Rio Grande Valley for birding. Some 500 species have been documented in this mostly subtropical area, which unspools across 4,200 square miles and four counties in the southernmost tip of the Lone State State. Nestled within the convergence of the Mississippi and Central flyways, this is the place to check birds off your list you won't find anywhere else in the country, including such showstoppers as the great kiskadee, the green jay and the buff-bellied hummingbird.

The World Birding Center is an invaluable resource for visitors, maintaining nine unique locations, each representing one of the valley's diverse landscapes. Depending on the facility, they offer goodies like tours and other special programming, exhibits, trails, boardwalks, observation towers, bird blinds, feeding stations, and even trams.

The birds vary by site, too, with everything from plain chachalacas and Altamira orioles sighted at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley to endangered brown pelicans and piping plovers spotted at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. Want to flock together with some birds of a feather? The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival runs for four days in November, offering a wealth of field trips, keynote speakers, workshops and more.

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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What to know about the crisis of violence, politics and hunger engulfing Haiti

A long-simmering crisis over Haiti’s ability to govern itself, particularly after a series of natural disasters and an increasingly dire humanitarian emergency, has come to a head in the Caribbean nation, as its de facto president remains stranded in Puerto Rico and its people starve and live in fear of rampant violence. 

The chaos engulfing the country has been bubbling for more than a year, only for it to spill over on the global stage on Monday night, as Haiti’s unpopular prime minister, Ariel Henry, agreed to resign once a transitional government is brokered by other Caribbean nations and parties, including the U.S.

But the very idea of a transitional government brokered not by Haitians but by outsiders is one of the main reasons Haiti, a nation of 11 million, is on the brink, according to humanitarian workers and residents who have called for Haitian-led solutions. 

“What we’re seeing in Haiti has been building since the 2010 earthquake,” said Greg Beckett, an associate professor of anthropology at Western University in Canada. 

What is happening in Haiti and why?

In the power vacuum that followed the assassination of democratically elected President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Henry, who was prime minister under Moïse, assumed power, with the support of several nations, including the U.S. 

When Haiti failed to hold elections multiple times — Henry said it was due to logistical problems or violence — protests rang out against him. By the time Henry announced last year that elections would be postponed again, to 2025, armed groups that were already active in Port-au-Prince, the capital, dialed up the violence.

Even before Moïse’s assassination, these militias and armed groups existed alongside politicians who used them to do their bidding, including everything from intimidating the opposition to collecting votes . With the dwindling of the country’s elected officials, though, many of these rebel forces have engaged in excessively violent acts, and have taken control of at least 80% of the capital, according to a United Nations estimate. 

Those groups, which include paramilitary and former police officers who pose as community leaders, have been responsible for the increase in killings, kidnappings and rapes since Moïse’s death, according to the Uppsala Conflict Data Program at Uppsala University in Sweden. According to a report from the U.N . released in January, more than 8,400 people were killed, injured or kidnapped in 2023, an increase of 122% increase from 2022.

“January and February have been the most violent months in the recent crisis, with thousands of people killed, or injured, or raped,” Beckett said.

Armed groups who had been calling for Henry’s resignation have already attacked airports, police stations, sea ports, the Central Bank and the country’s national soccer stadium. The situation reached critical mass earlier this month when the country’s two main prisons were raided , leading to the escape of about 4,000 prisoners. The beleaguered government called a 72-hour state of emergency, including a night-time curfew — but its authority had evaporated by then.

Aside from human-made catastrophes, Haiti still has not fully recovered from the devastating earthquake in 2010 that killed about 220,000 people and left 1.5 million homeless, many of them living in poorly built and exposed housing. More earthquakes, hurricanes and floods have followed, exacerbating efforts to rebuild infrastructure and a sense of national unity.

Since the earthquake, “there have been groups in Haiti trying to control that reconstruction process and the funding, the billions of dollars coming into the country to rebuild it,” said Beckett, who specializes in the Caribbean, particularly Haiti. 

Beckett said that control initially came from politicians and subsequently from armed groups supported by those politicians. Political “parties that controlled the government used the government for corruption to steal that money. We’re seeing the fallout from that.”

Many armed groups have formed in recent years claiming to be community groups carrying out essential work in underprivileged neighborhoods, but they have instead been accused of violence, even murder . One of the two main groups, G-9, is led by a former elite police officer, Jimmy Chérizier — also known as “Barbecue” — who has become the public face of the unrest and claimed credit for various attacks on public institutions. He has openly called for Henry to step down and called his campaign an “armed revolution.”

But caught in the crossfire are the residents of Haiti. In just one week, 15,000 people have been displaced from Port-au-Prince, according to a U.N. estimate. But people have been trying to flee the capital for well over a year, with one woman telling NBC News that she is currently hiding in a church with her three children and another family with eight children. The U.N. said about 160,000 people have left Port-au-Prince because of the swell of violence in the last several months. 

Deep poverty and famine are also a serious danger. Gangs have cut off access to the country’s largest port, Autorité Portuaire Nationale, and food could soon become scarce.

Haiti's uncertain future

A new transitional government may dismay the Haitians and their supporters who call for Haitian-led solutions to the crisis. 

But the creation of such a government would come after years of democratic disruption and the crumbling of Haiti’s political leadership. The country hasn’t held an election in eight years. 

Haitian advocates and scholars like Jemima Pierre, a professor at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, say foreign intervention, including from the U.S., is partially to blame for Haiti’s turmoil. The U.S. has routinely sent thousands of troops to Haiti , intervened in its government and supported unpopular leaders like Henry.

“What you have over the last 20 years is the consistent dismantling of the Haitian state,” Pierre said. “What intervention means for Haiti, what it has always meant, is death and destruction.”

In fact, the country’s situation was so dire that Henry was forced to travel abroad in the hope of securing a U.N. peacekeeping deal. He went to Kenya, which agreed to send 1,000 troops to coordinate an East African and U.N.-backed alliance to help restore order in Haiti, but the plan is now on hold . Kenya agreed last October to send a U.N.-sanctioned security force to Haiti, but Kenya’s courts decided it was unconstitutional. The result has been Haiti fending for itself. 

“A force like Kenya, they don’t speak Kreyòl, they don’t speak French,” Pierre said. “The Kenyan police are known for human rights abuses . So what does it tell us as Haitians that the only thing that you see that we deserve are not schools, not reparations for the cholera the U.N. brought , but more military with the mandate to use all kinds of force on our population? That is unacceptable.”  

Henry was forced to announce his planned resignation from Puerto Rico, as threats of violence — and armed groups taking over the airports — have prevented him from returning to his country.  

Now that Henry is to stand down, it is far from clear what the armed groups will do or demand next, aside from the right to govern. 

“It’s the Haitian people who know what they’re going through. It’s the Haitian people who are going to take destiny into their own hands. Haitian people will choose who will govern them,” Chérizier said recently, according to The Associated Press .

Haitians and their supporters have put forth their own solutions over the years, holding that foreign intervention routinely ignores the voices and desires of Haitians. 

In 2021, both Haitian and non-Haitian church leaders, women’s rights groups, lawyers, humanitarian workers, the Voodoo Sector and more created the Commission to Search for a Haitian Solution to the Crisis . The commission has proposed the “ Montana Accord ,” outlining a two-year interim government with oversight committees tasked with restoring order, eradicating corruption and establishing fair elections. 

For more from NBC BLK, sign up for our weekly newsletter .

CORRECTION (March 15, 2024, 9:58 a.m. ET): An earlier version of this article misstated which university Jemima Pierre is affiliated with. She is a professor at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, not the University of California, Los Angeles, (or Columbia University, as an earlier correction misstated).

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Char Adams is a reporter for NBC BLK who writes about race.

Best Countries to Visit in October

Here is the list of 18 best countries to visit in october.

November is the beginning of Autumn in Japan. Fall foliage starts during this month and leaves turn golden. Skies are generally clear with little rainfall, and about 9 rainy days. The weather is mild and comfortable with average temperatures ranging from 15-22 degrees celsius, which is great for outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking and exploring beaches. Since this is the shoulder season, the crowd is relatively less and the prices for accommodation and travel also go down. Top Places: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone

October is the official beginning of Autumn in the Northern parts of Italy. The initial days of the month experience delightful weather conditions, and average high temperature drops to 21 degrees Celsius. The southern regions of Italy experience colder temperatures but weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Since it is not peak-season, You will also get better deals on travel, activities and accommodation, and the crowd will be lesser in most of the tourist attractions around Italy Top Places: Rome, Tuscany

Spain is one of the best countries to visit in October with the fall season, and the streets are covered in  yellow and orange leaves. The weather is comfortable with average temperature around 21 degrees celsius, and hence, perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing.  Coastal areas like Costa Del Sol can still be in your itinerary during this time. Since this is a shoulder season, the cost of accommodation and travel, as well as the crowds will be lesser. Top Places: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville

Known as the Indian summer, the month October, witnesses a lowering of temperature in Canada. The eastern and central parts of Canada have cooler temperatures at around 16 degrees during the day and nights get colder around 3 degrees. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing before the winters. You will also get better deals on travel, activities and accommodation, and the crowd will be lesser since this is not the peak season Top Places: Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa

5. New Zealand

November is the spring season in New Zealand. The weather is warmer and longer than winters with average temperatures ranging from 17-21 degrees celsius with regional variations, making it an ideal month for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking in Southern Alps, and also to visit the beaches. Since October falls before the peak-season rush, you will be able to get more budget-friendly options for travel and accommodation, as well as lesser crowds. Top Places: Auckland, Wellington, South Island

6. Thailand

Monsoon season in Thailand comes to an end in October is the perfect time to visit the north and central Thailand. The temperatures are mild, air is a little less humid, with low rainfall and average temperatures ranging between 24-28 degree Celsius. This makes Thailand one of the top countries to visit in October for outdoor activities like trekking, and for visiting beaches in the Andaman Coast. The cost of accommodation and travel, as well as the crowds will be lesser in October Top Places: Phuket, Krabi

7. Australia

October in Australia is the spring season, making it one of the best times to travel to the country. The weather is warmer and longer than winters, with average temperatures around 18-22 degrees celsius and low chances of rainfall. The weather is  outdoor activities like trekking, hiking and water sports like diving and snorkeling. Since October is before the peak-season rush, you will get more budget-friendly options for travel and accommodation, as well as lesser crowds. Top Places: Melbourne, Sydney, Tasmania

8. South Africa

South Africa experiences the spring season and is one of the best countries to travel in October. The weather is pleasant with average temperature around 18-26 degrees celsius and chances of rainfall are less. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, sightseeing, and wildlife safaris at the National Parks. The tourist rush has not kicked in and this means lower cost for accommodation,travel and activities and lesser crowd at popular attractions. Top Places: Cape Town, Stellenbosch

October is fall season in Greece, with the northern winds cooling up after the extreme summer heat. The weather is pleasant with clear skies, less wind, and occasional rain. The average temperature ranges between 8-22 degrees celsius, and is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Greek islands and beaches.  Since October falls before the peak-season rush, you will be able to get more budget-friendly options for travel and accommodation, as well as lesser crowds. Top Places: Santorini, Athens

10. United States of America

October falls in the beginning of winters, but is still a good time to visit the USA. states like Florida remain warm, but North as well as the North-East tend to get chilly around this time. The average temperature can range from -1 to 24 degrees celsius depending on the state, and is ideal for outdoor activities where the weather is warmer. USA remains one of the best countries to visit in October due to the lower cost of travel, and since the places are less crowded Top Places: Florida, New York

With pleasant weather and lower crowds, Peru is a must-visit country in October. The coastal and desert regions in Peru remain warm, with slight fog and average temperatures of 15-20 degrees celsius. The Andean zone warms up during the day with temperatures around 21 degrees and weather is ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking. You will be able to get more budget-friendly options for travel and accommodation, as well as lesser crowds in Peru during October Top Places: Huaraz, Machu Picchu, Mancora

Egypt experiences pleasant weather in Ocotber with the start of the winter season. Tempertures range from 23-33 degrees celsius. It is also an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, snorkeling, and sightseeing. In Cairo and the Nile Delta Region, winter months are cold,but the Southern part of Egypt remains warm. Since it is the peak season, tickets, activities and accomodation will be more costly, and the top tourist attractions will be more crowded. Top Places: Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria

Octoberber is during the autumn season, and Mexico has an average temperature of around 20 degrees celsius in the northern parts and about 30 degrees celsius in the southern regions. The coastal waters become significantly cooler and is an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, beaches and for celebrations like the Fiestas de Octubre. Since it is the holiday season, cost of travel and accomodation, as well as crowds would be higher. Top Places: Mexico City, Cancun and Riviera Maya

14. Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the best countries to visit in October, especially the Northern and Southern Provinces. In October Vietnam experiences autumn season, the weather becomes suitable for outdoor activities. The temperature varies at around 25-30 degree celsius and there's lesser chance of rainfall in the North and South. Hanoi’s Liberation Day is a major celebration. You will also get better deals on travel, activities and accommodation, since it falls outside tourist-season. Top Places: Hoi An, Hanoy, Halong Bay

15. Morocco

In October, Morocco experiences the fall season where the days are shorter but the sun is very warm. Fall is a pleasant and dry season with temperature ranging from 17-27 degree Celsius which makes it a perfect time for outdoor activities like sightseeing and for cultural activties like Erfoud Date Festival. It is also a great season to go for a hiking expedition. Since it is not the peak tourist season in October, the cost of accomodation and travel will be cheaper. Top Places: Marakkech, Casablanca

16. Portugal

Portugal is one of the most beautiful to visit in October . It is the Autumn season and layers of colourful, velvety leaves cover the country. The average temperature ranges from 12-19 degrees celsius, making this is one of the ideal time to travel for sightseeing, day tours and other outdoor activities. Since this is the shoulder season, the number of travellers to the country is relatively less and therefore the prices for accommodation and travel are also lesser. Top Places: Lisbon, Porto, Algrvae

17. Mauritius, Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the best countries to visit in October. The temperature in October soars up to 25 degrees Celsius during the day whereas the average temperature is usually around 20-23 degrees Celsius. October is the dry month with occasional light showers. Hence, you can take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy Mauritius breeze in its true essence. The weather is suitable for outdoor activities.  Since it is not the peak tourist season in October, the cost of accomodation and travel will be cheaper.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

18. Turkey - A Land of Culture with Modern Twist

Weather in Turkey in autumn promises warm temperatures and blue skies though days start to get shorter. The beginning of September might still be hot, but it does start to get colder from mid-September although land and sea temperatures remain warm. This creates conditions which are similar to the months of spring but with shorter days. Autumn is a great time to explore the ancient sites, cities and the turquoise coast, as the crowds are fewer and the prices are lower. Top Places:  Istanbul, Antalya, Bodum

Which of these countries have you visited in October. Share your experiences in the comments section below:

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Regions & Countries

9 facts about americans and marijuana.

The use and possession of marijuana is illegal under U.S. federal law, but about three-quarters of states have legalized the drug for medical or recreational purposes. The changing legal landscape has coincided with a decades-long rise in public support for legalization, which a majority of Americans now favor.

Here are nine facts about Americans’ views of and experiences with marijuana, based on Pew Research Center surveys and other sources.

As more states legalize marijuana, Pew Research Center looked at Americans’ opinions on legalization and how these views have changed over time.

Data comes from surveys by the Center,  Gallup , and the  2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health  from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Information about the jurisdictions where marijuana is legal at the state level comes from the  National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws .

More information about the Center surveys cited in the analysis, including the questions asked and their methodologies, can be found at the links in the text.

Around nine-in-ten Americans say marijuana should be legal for medical or recreational use,  according to a January 2024 Pew Research Center survey . An overwhelming majority of U.S. adults (88%) say either that marijuana should be legal for medical use only (32%) or that it should be legal for medical  and  recreational use (57%). Just 11% say the drug should not be legal in any form. These views have held relatively steady over the past five years.

Views on marijuana legalization differ widely by age, political party, and race and ethnicity, the January survey shows.

While small shares across demographic groups say marijuana should not be legal at all, those least likely to favor it for both medical and recreational use include:

• Older adults: 31% of adults ages 75 and older support marijuana legalization for medical and recreational purposes, compared with half of those ages 65 to 74, the next youngest age category. By contrast, 71% of adults under 30 support legalization for both uses.
• Republicans and GOP-leaning independents: 42% of Republicans favor legalizing marijuana for both uses, compared with 72% of Democrats and Democratic leaners. Ideological differences exist as well: Within both parties, those who are more conservative are less likely to support legalization.
• Hispanic and Asian Americans: 45% in each group support legalizing the drug for medical and recreational use. Larger shares of Black (65%) and White (59%) adults hold this view.

Support for marijuana legalization has increased dramatically over the last two decades. In addition to asking specifically about medical and recreational use of the drug, both the Center and Gallup have asked Americans about legalizing marijuana use in a general way. Gallup asked this question most recently, in 2023. That year, 70% of adults expressed support for legalization, more than double the share who said they favored it in 2000.

Half of U.S. adults (50.3%) say they have ever used marijuana, according to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health . That is a smaller share than the 84.1% who say they have ever consumed alcohol and the 64.8% who have ever used tobacco products or vaped nicotine.

While many Americans say they have used marijuana in their lifetime, far fewer are current users, according to the same survey. In 2022, 23.0% of adults said they had used the drug in the past year, while 15.9% said they had used it in the past month.

While many Americans say legalizing recreational marijuana has economic and criminal justice benefits, views on these and other impacts vary, the Center’s January survey shows.

• Economic benefits: About half of adults (52%) say that legalizing recreational marijuana is good for local economies, while 17% say it is bad. Another 29% say it has no impact.

• Criminal justice system fairness: 42% of Americans say legalizing marijuana for recreational use makes the criminal justice system fairer, compared with 18% who say it makes the system less fair. About four-in-ten (38%) say it has no impact.
• Use of other drugs: 27% say this policy decreases the use of other drugs like heroin, fentanyl and cocaine, and 29% say it increases it. But the largest share (42%) say it has no effect on other drug use.
• Community safety: 21% say recreational legalization makes communities safer and 34% say it makes them less safe. Another 44% say it doesn’t impact safety.

Democrats and adults under 50 are more likely than Republicans and those in older age groups to say legalizing marijuana has positive impacts in each of these areas.

Most Americans support easing penalties for people with marijuana convictions, an October 2021 Center survey found . Two-thirds of adults say they favor releasing people from prison who are being held for marijuana-related offenses only, including 41% who strongly favor this. And 61% support removing or expunging marijuana-related offenses from people’s criminal records.

Younger adults, Democrats and Black Americans are especially likely to support these changes. For instance, 74% of Black adults  favor releasing people from prison  who are being held only for marijuana-related offenses, and just as many favor removing or expunging marijuana-related offenses from criminal records.

Twenty-four states and the District of Columbia have legalized small amounts of marijuana for both medical and recreational use as of March 2024,  according to the  National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws  (NORML), an advocacy group that tracks state-level legislation on the issue. Another 14 states have legalized the drug for medical use only.

Of the remaining 12 states, all allow limited access to products such as CBD oil that contain little to no THC – the main psychoactive substance in cannabis. And 26 states overall have at least partially  decriminalized recreational marijuana use , as has the District of Columbia.

In addition to 24 states and D.C.,  the U.S. Virgin Islands ,  Guam  and  the Northern Mariana Islands  have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use.

More than half of Americans (54%) live in a state where both recreational and medical marijuana are legal, and 74% live in a state where it’s legal either for both purposes or medical use only, according to a February Center analysis of data from the Census Bureau and other outside sources. This analysis looked at state-level legislation in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to pass legislation legalizing recreational marijuana.

About eight-in-ten Americans (79%) live in a county with at least one cannabis dispensary, according to the February analysis. There are nearly 15,000 marijuana dispensaries nationwide, and 76% are in states (including D.C.) where recreational use is legal. Another 23% are in medical marijuana-only states, and 1% are in states that have made legal allowances for low-percentage THC or CBD-only products.

The states with the largest number of dispensaries include California, Oklahoma, Florida, Colorado and Michigan.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published April 26, 2021, and updated April 13, 2023.  

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Americans overwhelmingly say marijuana should be legal for medical or recreational use

Religious americans are less likely to endorse legal marijuana for recreational use, four-in-ten u.s. drug arrests in 2018 were for marijuana offenses – mostly possession, two-thirds of americans support marijuana legalization, most popular.

About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

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While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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