Wild Cards
Not sure where you want to go but like to be ahead of the curve? These under-the-radar spots are the places that everybody will be talking about in a couple of years. You heard it here first.
Destination Inspiration: Baku, Azerbaijan
A design destination to watch, this stellar capital promises a feast for the senses. Read on for the inside scoop on where to find Baku’s best bits – plus the essentials to pack.
Destination Inspiration: Tivat, Boka Bay, Montenegro
We’ve tracked down where to drink, play and stay in Porto Montenegro, Tivat's nautical village and glamorous marina. The dream destination for those seeking a gastronomic getaway, it also offers sparkling views of the Adriatic and dramatic mountain peaks.
Destination Inspiration: Dugi Otok, Croatia
Just a two-hour ferry crossing from Zadar, the spectacular landscape of Dugi Otok is home to secluded coves, oceanside restaurants and design-driven hotels. Read on for the lowdown on Croatia’s best-kept secret.
Destination Inspiration: Paraty, Brazil
We’re pegging the bohemian Brazilian beach town of Paraty as the perfect holiday destination, with days best spent flitting between artisan boutiques and secluded, rock-hewn coves.
Destination Inspiration: Merimbula, Australia
Merimbula is a must-visit on any New South Wales itinerary. Home to happening beach bars, quirky stays and seafood galore, this laid-back Australian coastal town is on course to become the new Byron Bay.
Destination Inspiration: Menton, France
The go-slow harbour town of Menton makes for the ultimate romantic getaway. With a glittering coastline, colourful buildings and palm-fringed avenues, it’s the epitome of French Riviera chic.
Destination Inspiration: Mellieha, Malta
Malta’s magical Mellieha is a shoo-in for sun-worshippers craving a go-slow getaway. Boho coastal restaurants, some of the Med’s best beaches and atmospheric, centuries-old caves are all just waiting to be explored.
Destination Inspiration: Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Savvy travellers have West Africa’s Abidjan in their sights, whose vibrant music scene and tempting street-food markets make it a great destination for those who like to fully immerse themselves in a destination's culture, while some standout new boutique hotels only add to the attraction.
Destination Inspiration: Kilkenny, Ireland
One of Ireland’s most underrated cities, Kilkenny makes for a great day trip from Dublin or mini-break from London. With independent art galleries, beautiful greenery and plenty of inviting rural pubs to visit, this is a go-to destination for rest and relaxation.
Destination Inspiration: Durban, South Africa
Though it’s best known as a gateway to Cape Town, the coastal city of Durban makes for an idyllic getaway in its own right, with highlights including rugged mountains, a dramatic coastline, a standout flea market and buzzy nightlife.
Destination Inspiration: Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
With its superlative seafood restaurants, beautiful beaches and windswept walking trails, the harbour town of Tenby has fast become a favourite UK staycation destination.
Destination Inspiration: Yamba, New South Wales, Australia
Yamba ranks as one of Australia's best-kept-secrets. A lesser-trodden town that flaunts a pristine coastline, it’s a must-visit destination for foodies, surfers and those seeking an off-grid escape.
Destination Inspiration: Cody, Wyoming, US
An old western town in Wyoming, Cody is a dream destination for any outdoor enthusiast planning a 2022 adventure. Saddle up and get ready to horse ride through verdant valleys, raft on rushing rivers and hike through the iconic Yellowstone National Park.
Destination Inspiration: Asilah, Morocco
An art-filled fortified town on northern Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Asilah bursts with creative flair. Spend days flitting between craft stores, art deco buildings and sun-dappled riads.
Destination Inspiration: Haifa, Israel
Israel’s third-largest city, Haifa is a must-visit destination for those who like their ancient history served with a side helping of cutting-edge architecture and white-sand beaches galore.