Each year travel preferences change. Over the last few years, travelers have indicated that “experiences” are king. Travelers have also indicated that the traditional destinations that have been so popular for the last decade or 2, are not the top destinations for travel. In an increasingly popular fashion, travelers are going farther off the beaten path. While London, Rome, and Munich are all still wildly popular for tourism, many smaller and lesser known destinations around the world are seeing an increasing amount of tourism. This blog outlines our picks for top destinations 2017. The majority of the following destinations are places we have visited, and a few are sneak peeks for you all into some destinations we are planning to visit over the next few months!

As such, we have included a number of them in our….

Top Destinations 2017

1. Vinales, Cuba

   Cuba is about to explode with tourism in 2017. Just last year, President Obama urged Congress to lift the embargo on Cuba, and thankfully they obliged. Now, for about the last month, Americans have been flying direct to Havana from as far as Los Angeles. We flew direct from LAX to Havana for $360! You’ll need a visa (about $100), but at $360 for a round trip flight, you can’t lose.**TIP** You’re going to want to read these 10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Cuba.

   

2. Bratislava, Slovakia

   Bratislava is a tiny gem in Eastern Europe that is often skipped over by travelers; even those who travel east. Vienna, Prague, and Budapest are very common destinations for travelers in the more eastern part of Europe, but for some reason, most people skip over Bratislava.Considering how easily accessible Bratislava is by bus and train from the surrounding cities (Vienna, Prague, and Budapest), it would be a shame to not make a day or weekend trip if you’re in the region. Here are 5 Things to See in Bratislava.

   

3. Cefalu, Sicily, Italy

   Everyone is familiar with the gorgeous coastal towns of Italy. Most people have at least heard of Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast. However, most travelers aren’t familiar with the small coastal town of Cefalu. Cefalu is located about an hour outside of Palermo, Sicily. For more, check out our Cefalu Travel Guide.

   

4. Budapest, Hungary

   Traveling farther east in Europe has become increasingly popular over the last few years. Budapest is a top destination for travelers, and especially couples. The city is filled with relaxing baths and spas, making this a perfect romantic getaway. Before you visit, check out our Budapest Travel Guide.

   

5. Atrani, Italy

   One of our favorite things about Italy is the plethora of small towns that have so much charm and magic packed into them. They’re typically less popular, filled with about 90%+ locals, and happen to be hidden utopias with amazing local restaurants. Atrani was our newest discovery on our most recent trip to Italy, which is why it made our list for the most Romantic Places For Couples on the Amalfi Coast.

   

6. Pilsen, Czech Republic

   Prague is Prague. It’s phenomenal. It’s beautiful. However, it is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Pilsen offers similar vibes to Prague while enabling travelers to beat crowds and have a more local Czech experience. Check out these 5 Things to do in the Czech Republic, some of which happen to be in Pilsen.

   

7. Vienna, Austria

   If you want to walk in the footsteps of some of the most brilliant minds in history, head to Vienna. This adorable city emanates romance and offers travelers a chance to walk through history without losing the best parts of modern life. Check out our Vienna Travel Guide for more.

   

8. North Bohemia, Czech Republic

   If you clicked out of this blog and to our 5 Things to do in the Czech Republic blog (under #6 Pilsen), you’ve already gotten acquainted with North Bohemia. Spend a day offroading with our friends at Offroad Safari Cz and explore the beautiful countryside of the Czech Republic.

   

9. Gozo, Malta

   Gozo was our favorite of the 3 islands in Malta. The island is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. There is so much to do here…from fishing to scuba, snorkeling, climbing, biking, etc. You will not run out of things to do, especially if you read our Malta Travel Guide.

   Retirement kind of vibes 🇮🇹🌴

   A photo posted by ✈️ Couple’s Coordinates (@michael_j_gallagher) on Dec 8, 2016 at 8:15pm PST

10. Mondello, Sicily, Italy

    Another noteworthy coastal town in Sicily is Mondello. This has the “I could retire there” kinda vibe to it and makes for an incredibly romantic getaway with your better half. Go relax on the beach and enjoy some amazing Sicilian food. You deserve it!

11. Machu Picchu, Peru

    What better destination to have a real “experience” than Machu Picchu? Travel to Peru has increased year over year and the Peruvian government has even set a requirement for visitors to have a guide when they visit Machu Picchu.  We are heading here in May! Pictures and travel advice to come.

    

12. Bali, Indonesia

    We have written extensively about Bali and have listed our best tips here in our Bali Travel Guide. This year more and more people ask us for travel advice on Bali, pointing to an influx of tourism for Bali. If you have never visited Bali, read our travel guide and book a flight immediately. You will fall in love the moment you step off the plane.

    Had such an incredible weekend with @alexandra_carson in this beautiful piece of nature! We found our new favorite hike, explored some hot springs, and soaked up some ☀️! I can’t remember the last time I saw everything this green in California. It honestly feels more like Ireland! 🇮🇪

    A photo posted by ✈️ Couple’s Coordinates (@michael_j_gallagher) on Jan 30, 2017 at 7:09pm PST

13. Santa Barbara, California, United States

    We are blessed to live just about 90 minutes away from the beautiful and quaint California coastal town of Santa Barbara. If you enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, riding bicycles, etc. you’ll love spending a weekend (or longer) in Santa Barbara. This city also has great nightlife, wonderful restaurants, and world class hotels.

14. British Columbia, Canada

    BC offers travelers unique experiences depending on the time of year they choose to travel. Amazing skiing/snowboarding are at your fingertips about half the year, and relaxing time spent on lakes or our hiking through nature can be had about the other half of the year. Tips and pictures to come!

    

15. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

    As you all know, we recently got engaged and are in the process of planning our wedding. Well, this is the first time that we are publicly announcing our destination of choice: Four Seasons Bora Bora! We are absolutely beside ourselves about this choice and can’t wait to share pictures/videos with you all on social media as well as blogs detailing our stay with Four Seasons and overall suggestions for Bora Bora.

16. Edinburgh, Scotland

    Argued as the most beautiful city in the United Kingdom is Edinburgh; the capital of Scotland. Look for pictures and blogs on Edinburgh following a trip later this month. Stay tuned for travel advice and tips on visiting Scotland.

    Thankful for places that make me feel small. 🙏🏻🌎

    A photo posted by Alex | California (@alexandra_carson) on Dec 13, 2016 at 9:15am PST

17. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona, United States

    If you want to marvel in the beauty of nature, head to Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is located in the small town of Page, Arizona. There isn’t much going on in Page other than a few restaurants and hotels. However, Horseshoe Bend in reason enough to visit.

    Bonus: If you visit Horseshoe Bend in Page, you’ll be happy to know that Antelope Canyon is just a few miles down the road, also in Page, Arizona. Whammy….2 birds, 1 stone.