Taranto, Italy
With a rich Greek and Roman history, the ancient Italian city of Taranto is brought up to date by a bustling modern centre. Once you've had your culture-fix in the Old Town, wind down on the sandy Puglian shores.
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.
Montauk, US
Ominously known by Long Islanders as "The End", Montauk defies eerie expectations with its nature-centric outlook forged by sprawling state parks and white-sand beaches.
Taormina, Sicily
On Sicily's glamorous coast, Taormina offers Ionian vistas framed by fragrant lemon trees and sophisticated trattorias.
Ericeira, Portugal
Lisboêtas don't want you to know about the surfing mecca of Ericeira. A short drive from Portugal's vibrant capital, it's a haven of sleepy streets, seafood and secluded shores.
Tinos, Greece
Escape the crowds of Corfu and sun-seekers of Santorini in Tinos, the unspoiled island that the Greeks don't want you to know about.
Comoros, Indian Ocean
Located between Mozambique and Madagascar, the island nation of Comoros is Africa's best-kept secret. Come for picture-perfect beaches, turtle-hatching, conservation projects and an active volcano.
Gokarna, Karnataka, India
A small pilgrimage town on the western coast of India, Gokarna is the place to marvel at ornate temples, find your inner-chi with some yoga, and laze on crowd-free beaches.
Ramatuelle, France
Not far from Côte d'Azur's popular spots St Tropez and Sainte-Maxime, Ramatuelle is a worthy stopover along the French Riviera. Ensconced by fields of lavender and sandy beaches, this provincial village is the stuff of Tropezian myth.
Korčula, Croatia
Croatia's sixth-largest island is finally getting the recognition it deserves. With cobbled alleys, endless vineyards, Byzantine art and crumbling ruins, Korčula is an island retreat offering something a little different.
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
A hidden gem on Oaxaca's Emerald Coast, Puerto Escondido is southern Mexico's best-kept secret. One of the world's best surfing destinations, its easy-going vibe, great food and natural beauty make this prime territory for a creative crowd.
Antalya, Turkey
The eastern gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is one of the best launchpads for discovering the Turquoise Coast. Laze on beaches, explore Greco-Roman ruins and hunt for bargains in the markets of Kaleiçi.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Wedged between two majestic mountain ranges, Plovdiv is a patchwork of historical architecture and bohemian neighbourhoods. Crowned as the European Capital of Culture 2019, the city is rising on must-visit list for those travelling to Bulgaria.
Lagos, Portugal
With sandstone cliffs, Atlantic views and an ancient walled city, Lagos is a colourful destination in which to soak up sunshine and some fascinating West African history.
Danakil Desert, Djibouti
Kate Eshelby visits the surreal landscapes of the Danikil Depression, Djiboutie where rocky wilderness is punctured only by steaming fissures and limestone chimneys.