While much of the world was cut off from tourism over the past couple of years, many places have used this downtime to rejuvenate their travel experiences, offering fresh adventures to even the most experienced travellers. TIME Magazine has analysed destinations around the world to bring us the most sustainable, future-facing and exciting locations to take a trip to this year.
The pandemic appears to have been a germination period for numerous luxury wellbeing resorts that are now sprouting up in Bali. Each resort has its individual quirks (like a wellbeing butler) and locations range from jungle dwellings to traditional Balinese villas and hotels up in the Bedugul mountains.
There’s more than just Ahmedabad’s UNESCO World Heritage City status placing the area on TIME's top destinations list for 2022. Efforts to create a strong cultural site have been ramping up, particularly in Gujarat Science City, which is expanding its parks and spaces for chess and yoga. The latest development is the new aquarium, which is now the largest in India.
The Trans Bhutan Trail – a pilgrimage route for Buddhists – is expected to reopen in Bhutan this year. Numerous bridges, stairs and pathways have been restored, creating a safe route for tourists to enjoy. Travellers can expect to see Phrumsengla National Park and more than 400 historic sites along the way, including the famous Tiger’s Nest.
Exploring Bogotá has never been easier thanks to the 52 miles (84km) of cycle path that’s been added to the city over the past two years. Travellers can get involved in the new bike share programme and whizz about the Colombian capital to experience the avalanche of new hotels and restaurants that have appeared too.
Boracay was low on the list of destinations to visit before the pandemic. The area had fallen victim to severe ecological abuse, overrun with rubbish, pollution and sewage. However, the two years of lockdowns and lack of tourism have given the island the breathing space to recover. It means travellers can now stay in one of the new luxury resorts while appreciating Boracay in all its natural glory.
There’s much to see on foot in Calabria, with a new self-guided trekking trail that takes three days to complete. Travellers can expect olive groves, mountainous terrains, forests and village pitstops which offer up authentic local food like ‘nduja, ice cream and cheeses.
There’s been a big push for two-wheel journeys in cool Copenhagen after the Danish capital hosted the Tour de France this year. Visitors can expect to ride along one of the many cycle lanes that have been installed while taking pitstops at brand new restaurants, hotels and museums.
The USA's first electric vehicle charging road has been laid in Detroit – an exciting step for sustainable urbanisation and a move that’s put the city on the map for 2022. Detroit is recovering from bankruptcy and as part of a rejuvenation project, it’s building new hotels, food and drink venues and even a Motown Museum (perfect for music lovers).
It was the coastline that allured tourists to Devon during the pandemic, but it’s the rise in food and drink offerings that’s solidified the region’s appeal. Wine and beer tours have kicked off and restaurant Andria has received the region's third Michelin star. Aside from this, Lundy Marine Festival is rewarding visitors with cheaper travel if they help to collect data on local marine life.
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As the 2022 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off in November, all eyes will turn to its host, Doha in Qatar. Expecting an increase in tourism, the city is pulling out all the stops with more than a hundred new hotels opening, two new cruise ships which will sit in West Bay and accommodate football fans, as well as campsites in the desert and updated museums.
Dolní Morava’s new record-breaking suspension bridge has helped it clinch a place on TIME’s list. Sky Bridge 721, which runs through the Jeseníky Mountains, is over 2,000 feet long (721m) – making it the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world. Dangling 312 feet (95m) up in the air gives visitors a bird's-eye view of the snowy mountains and Mlýnský Stream – a must for any lover of heights.
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El Chaltén has lots to offer, including the first Explora luxury all-inclusive lodge in Argentina, which means travellers can take in the sites of Mount Fitz Roy and Perito Moreno Glacier before returning to a comfortable abode with a Jacuzzi. Make sure you book yourself onto one of the guided excursions to make the most of your experience.
If you’re hoping to eat and drink your way around South Africa, then Franschhoek is the place to be in 2022. In the valley of the Western Cape, several vineyards are investing in their visitor experience by offering stand-out meals alongside their famous wines. Expect local seafood, meat, cheese and charcuterie, alongside a view of the Franschhoek Mountains.
The Fremantle tourism board must have been champing at the bit to reopen following its lengthy COVID-19 lockdown. The area has been significantly rejuvenated making it a perfect location for a leisurely visit. Travellers can expect an avalanche of food stalls with a variety of cuisines, bowling, minigolf, cocktails, brand new bars and breweries. Definitely a destination for those into their food and drink.
Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia and Panama’s decision to extend protected environmental zones around the Galápagos Islands is attracting a lot of attention this year. Not only has the restriction on commercial fishing encouraged wildlife to flourish, but two new sustainably focused cruise ships will enable tourists to enjoy the islands in their full beauty without disturbing the natural environment.
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TIME has declared San Francisco a top destination to visit in 2022 after developments in the Golden Gate area. A 14-acre outdoor park expansion has been built on top of old highway tunnels in the national park. Now, travellers can wander through the space before heading to the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco that’s set to open this autumn.
Hit with another mass bleaching event this year, Australia's Great Barrier Reef hasn't been thriving for quite some time. Now, a major project is afoot, mapping out the 1,400 miles (2,253km) of the reef for better protection. The inclusion of tourists as part of this conservation project has placed the underwater wonder as a key destination on TIME's list. Indigenous guides are also on hand to navigate visitors through Aboriginal storytelling and the latest research at the site. There’s even a Museum of Underwater Art.
The site of a major white rhino conservation project, Hwange National Park is the one to keep an eye on in 2022. The white rhino population was severely affected by poaching but now two animals have been brought back to the community to rebuild their population. Travellers will be able to pay a visit to these stunning animals while staying at Hwange Main Camp.
The opening of Ilulissat Icefjord Centre is enticing travellers to visit its icy climes responsibly this year. The centre – which is nestled between the rocky terrain and ice of the west coast – sets out to educate tourists about the harsh environment and the Inuit people who have traditionally lived there. Travellers may particularly enjoy wandering along the boardwalk to take in the views of Ilulissat’s icy fjord.
This year is very special for Jamaica as it’s the 60th anniversary of its independence from the UK. In turn, the celebrations around this historic event have marked the country out as a great destination to visit in 2022. No matter what time of year travellers go, they’re bound to be met with food, community celebrations and music, including the World Reggae dance finals. Plenty of luxury beach resorts have popped up just in time to host guests too.
As one of the three EU Capitals of Culture, it seems apt that Kaunas is using its status to create a space to shed light on some of its darker history, from Nazi occupation and its years within the Soviet Union to today’s invasion of Ukraine. Tourists can delve into the art world as well as support Ukrainian artists and entrepreneurs who have been welcomed to the city.
Kigali is another city leading the way in creating affordable and sustainable travel. Rwanda’s capital has recently rolled out a bike sharing app, which travellers can use to whizz along Kigali’s upgraded roads. Visitors can also use their bikes to ride through the new wetland park to witness Rwanda’s bird species. With a new airport set to open just outside the city too, now is the time to go to Kigali.
Kyushu Island, the third largest island in Japan, is becoming a much desired destination as the country cautiously reopens. Travellers will once again be able to discover the volcanic delights of Sakurajima and the hot springs of Beppu. The island has been busy renovating its historic buildings in preparation for its reopening and a luxury new train route is coming soon.
It’s Madeira’s underexplored quality (and its famous wine) that's placed the Portuguese island on the map for 2022. With an increasing number of direct flights bringing the island closer to the rest of the world, travellers can hike, kayak, climb and dive around the island, visiting sites such as Pico Ruivo and Levada Walks. Its rising popularity has prompted a string of new luxury hotels, so visitors will be in good hands.
France’s largest city, Marseille has earned its spot on the list thanks to Cosquer Mediterranée – a gallery that holds a replica of a cave filled with prehistoric artwork called Grotte Cosquer. The city is now also a top hiking destination as it’s one of the stops on a biblical-themed 138-mile (222km) route following Mary Magdalene. If hiking and history aren't your thing, travellers can always swing by Europe’s first fully solar-powered restaurant Le Présage.
There’s lots going on in the bustling city of Miami, making it a great choice for travellers. A new outdoor park spanning the city’s riverfront has begun to open, offering up cycle paths and public spaces for events, while the Michelin Guide has finally arrived in Florida, dishing out stars to 11 of Miami's restaurants. The hotel scene is thriving too. Tourists have their pick of brand new hotels, each with quirks ranging from rooftop pools and Art Deco designs to places powered by renewable energy.
Kenya is a top destination for safaris, but this year it could be its capital that piques your intrigue rather than the bush. Nairobi has been developing its offering to tourists, recently opening The Nairobi Contemporary Art Institute alongside new hotels and restaurants. Travellers can experience the buzz of the city, while also seeing the wildlife at Nairobi National Park.
Park City in Utah is a location that seems to have it all, no matter what time of year you go. Its recent growth in popularity has spurred the development of new accommodation, restaurants and activities. Plus, the town is placing a heavier focus on arts and culture – ideal for visitors who prefer live music over hiking and skiing.
Green hillsides, blue lochs and medieval castles are what seem to have clinched Portree’s position as a top destination. As the capital of Isle of Skye it will be hosting its annual live music festival after a COVID-19 hiatus. Meanwhile, a new whisky distillery has opened for tourists looking to get a bit jolly against the stunning coastal backdrop.
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New Zealand has been sealed off to travellers for the past couple of years, but Queenstown is now reopening its tourism with full enthusiasm. Those heading down to the city can experience a string of new hotels, entertainment complexes, hikes and the world’s first-ever winery airline. And that’s not even mentioning the amazing views of Lake Wakatipu.
When the pandemic hit, Rapa Nui’s historic Moai sculptures and Anakena beach were shut off to travellers. However, things don’t look the same now. While travellers have been away, locals have expanded their traditional and sustainable agricultural practices, meaning there’s more opportunity to experience delicacies like taro and guava. The long-awaited opening has earned this mesmerising destination a spot on the TIME Magazine list.
The UAE’s fourth largest emirate, Ras Al Khaimah was selected thanks to its extreme amusement attractions which include its new 25-mile-per-hour (40km/h) toboggan ride and the world’s longest zip line. It offers a unique way to take in the views of the Hajar Mountains. With more developments anticipated, such as a culinary village and movie theatre, it's set to be a top location on travel lists.
A whole host of luxury hotels are popping up in undiscovered Riviera Nayarit this year and visitors who wish to make use of them can explore the region’s 200 miles (322km) of coastline. Expect swim-up bars, water parks, island adventures and goods made by local artisans.
Plenty has been happening in Salta to make it an exciting destination. One of South America’s top restaurants, El Banqueno, has relocated to the area promising diners feasts featuring Indigenous ingredients. Meanwhile, the Artisan’s Road has been refurbished and the famous Hotel Termas de Rosario de la Frontera is celebrating its 142nd anniversary. With increasing flights to the city, it’s well worth a visit.
Brazil's biggest city, São Paulo is coaxing tourists back with some striking new hotels. A standout is the Rosewood São Paulo in Bela Vista which has been constructed with upcycled materials and features a vertical garden tower. Other impressive options include JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo and Hotel Ca’ D’Oro, which comes with a sky bar on the 27th floor.
Seoul’s progressive implementation of smart and sustainable technology is why it’s recognised as a top destination this year. From self-driving shuttle buses and disinfecting robots to hotels with AI-guided speakers, South Korea’s capital is the place to come to experience the future. It’s the first city integrated with the metaverse, promising tourists VR experiences of famous city attractions in a virtual tourist zone.
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This year the Setouchi Islands will host the Setouchi Triennale art festival which occurs every three years. Travellers can expect abandoned buildings turned into galleries, huge sculptures and museums that also operate as hotels – a true haven for art lovers.
Space may not have been a location on your travel list this year, but it certainly is for TIME. It's included on the list thanks to Axiom Space which launched a crew of tourists on a 15-day stay in space. The trip marks ambitions for commercial space travel to become more common, however, it’s currently still restricted to those who can afford £45 million ($55m) a pop.
Sweden is a leading country in sustainability and this is evidenced in recent changes to Skellefteå. The city made big efforts to create eco-infrastructure with the latest introduction of electric snowmobiles promising to zip travellers round Swedish Lapland emission-free. Visitors can also expect to see a plethora of art galleries, street food, new hotels and even heated walkways.
Portugal has always been a popular destination and rightly so, but it's time to turn your attention to the country’s lesser-known regions, like the Alentejo. Travellers can visit the new Museu Berardo Estremoz, which is preserving traditional crafts, as well as see cave paintings and birds of prey in Serra de São Mamede before settling down in one of the region’s new hotels.
There’s been a huge rise in cruise ships venturing into the icy depths of the Arctic, sparking intrigue for travellers wanting to go further afield in 2022. The latest addition to the cruise ship ranks is Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, which offers a 16-day trip complete with onboard restaurants, spas, saunas and indoor pool. If you fancy snow trekking, kayaking and dog-sledding, this one is for you.
Thessaloniki’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy network has bagged it a spot on the TIME list. While the popular tourist city is already known for its food, it’s thought its newfound status will encourage even more tasty experiences. The city’s largest market is set to open in September and travellers can expect to tuck into a variety of cuisines.
Tofino, a tiny village in Vancouver Island, is making headlines this year thanks to its biosphere reserve. Visitors can partake in wildlife tours, forest hiking, walks, free diving, paddleboarding, plus whale and bear watching. The most recent addition to the scene is a floating sauna at Tofino Resort and Marina which enables travellers to truly be at one with nature while embracing wellbeing.
Another Canadian destination listed is vibrant Toronto. The city has witnessed numerous hotel openings as well as a string of new art exhibitions displaying both local and world-renowned creatives. For those craving more of the outdoors, try the new Lake Shore Inflatable Water Park and the city’s first-ever elevated park.
Uzbekistan is opening its Silk Road heritage to an increasing number of tourists, which makes it a great destination to visit soon. The country is set to host the first Silk Road Literary Festival this year and has just opened the Silk Road Samarkand Complex. In addition, getting there has never been easier, with the high-speed train expanding to Khiva and a new airport in Samarkand – both historic Silk Road locations.
Valencia’s innovative architecture has crowned the city this year’s World Design Capital. Its newfound status means that lots of events and exhibitions are happening, including the opening of Agora València in Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Plus, as Renfe’s new high-speed train linking Madrid and Valencia has opened, it’s pretty easy for art lovers to get there.
The opening of Lolebezi Safari Lodge has secured Lower Zambezi National Park’s place as a desirable travel destination for 2022. The new lodge gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy the waterfront in private while taking in the wildlife that has been excellently preserved over the years. Expect canoeing, walking safaris and game drives before unwinding in the new spa.
Kerala is undoubtedly one of the world's most stunning destinations, but it's now mounting efforts to showcase its scenery to the rest of the world. The state has opened its first caravan park in Vagamon to sit alongside its new houseboat cruising initiative – making it an ideal location for those wanting to wander. The new Amal Tamara ayurvedic retreat is also worth visiting.
Turkey has long been a destination on the route of cruise ships and Istanbul has been leaning into its popularity by developing Galataport. Travellers can expect to see the world’s first underground cruise terminal, a multitude of seafront luxury resorts and several rejuvenated galleries and theatres – ideal for a coastal cultural holiday.
The up-and-coming city has dedicated investment to creating infrastructure that supports cyclists and walkers. As a result, new bridges and crosswalks are making sustainable travel much easier. The city has also seen a dog-friendly hotel open and a sensory room at the local airport created for tourists with autism and anxiety.