The 22 Best Places To Travel In 2022, According To Ovation Travel Group - Forbes
Looking for the best place to travel in 2022? Make sure you have a passport.
According to an exclusive survey by Ovation Travel Group's agents, only two of the top destinations are in the United States. The others are in far-flung locations many American travelers have never heard of.
Paul Metselaar, the CEO of Ovation Travel Group, says the list of 22 best places to travel in 2022 reflects a historic desire to cross borders and have a new experience.
"We're seeing high levels of pent-up demand for international travel," he says. "Certainly the most since 2019."
These are the 22 best places to visit in 2022
Here are the 22 best places to travel in 2022, according to Ovation's list of the top leisure destinations compiled exclusively for Forbes.
1. Taormina, Italy
2. London
3. Santa Fe, New Mexico
4. Dubai
5. Anguilla
6. Ljubljana, Slovenia
7. Faroe Islands
8. Ischia, Italy
9. Banff, Canada
10. Galapagos Islands
11. Majorca, Spain
12. Porto, Portugal
13. Bodrum, Turkey
14. Seychelles
15. Napa Valley, Calif.
16. Quito, Ecuador
17. San Sebastian, Spain
18. Yucatan, Mexico
19. Pink Granite Coast, France
20. Namibia
21. Chefchaouen, Morocco
22. Paro, Bhutan
Why should you see the 22 best places to visit in 2022?
Why go to these 22 best places in 2022? Here's what experts had to say:
Belvedere of Taormina and San Giuseppe church on the square Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina.
1. Taormina, Italy
Why visit? Set up on a hill, the town of Taormina is vibrant and charming, with views of the famous Mt. Etna and its postcard-perfect beaches. Travel experts say its friendly climate and people make it the number-one destination on this list of the 22 best places to travel in 2022.
Who should go: Couples and families looking for five-star stays. Both Four Seasons and Belmond have beautiful resorts in Taormina.
Don't miss: A day-trip to Mt. Etna. "Hike and explore the lava craters and learn the history of the volcano and its eruptions," says Jill Fischbarg, a luxury travel consultant with Ovation Travel Group. "End your day with a visit to one of the area's wineries to taste the region's famous Etna Rosso and Bianco."
Westminster and the Big Ben clocktower by the Thames river in London, United Kingdom, just after ... [+]
2. London
Why visit? "London is truly one of the world's greatest cities, and it's shining brighter than it has in years," says Andrew Steinberg, a luxury travel concierge at Modern Travel, an affiliate of Ovation Travel Group. "London blends the old and new, making it relevant to all travelers, young and old."
Who should go: Theater lovers, foodies (dining to compete on a global scale), shopaholics (shopping is a sport in this city), history lovers (Winston Churchill's war room is a must), and those with an insatiable appetite for British royalty.
Don't miss: Claridge's newly renovated rooms and all their restaurants, but especially Davies and Brook (from Daniel Humm); the Connaught bar, which is the top in Mayfair, and the new Red Bar (featuring red artwork from top female artists including Louise Bourgeois).
Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico at dusk. Santa Fe is the capital of the state of New Mexico. Santa Fe ... [+]
3. Santa Fe, N.M.
Why visit? Santa Fe is one of the most historically significant cities in North America. It's also the highest-rated American destination on this list of the 22 best places to travel in 2022. "With a historic downtown, art galleries, Native American culture and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe has much to offer any traveler," says Jessica Levy, a luxury travel consultant at Ovation Travel Group.
Who should go: Couples, multigenerational families, and groups of friends.
Don't miss: The Santa Fe Opera and the Auberge hotel, Bishop's Lodge.
Burj Al Arab Hotel with Dubai Skyline, Dubai.
4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Why: Dubai has all the glitz and glamour, with its world-renowned restaurants and sunny beaches. "Dubai has the culture of the Middle East and the desert topography, giving it a unique quality that is hard to find elsewhere in the world," says Sylvia Lebovitch, president and founder of SL Travel Advisors, an affiliate of Ovation Travel Group. "Guests can dine in a traditional Middle Eastern restaurant or at a Michelin Star restaurant run by a celebrity chef. The anticipated opening of Atlantis the Royal promises to be one of the most impressive projects of the year."
Who should go: Couples, families and singles. There is something for everyone, from the indoor ski park to the beaches.
Don't miss: Spending the day enjoying a local pastime, dune bashing and sandboarding the desert.
Anguilla is one of the top 22 destinations of 2022.
5. Anguilla
Why visit? The powder-white sands glisten alongside the crystal-clear turquoise waters, painting for the picture-perfect shoreline, says Aanchal Gandhi, vice president of leisure and independent advisors at Ovation Travel Group.
"Anguilla has incredible soul that is glorified by the locals while maintaining humbling hospitality," she says. "You feel this from the moment you step onto Anguilla. The island offers delectable award-winning dining experiences and also beachside shacks that serve up some of the best jerk-style meats. You can immerse yourself into the local island life and simultaneously enjoy the mesmerizing luxury. Anguilla is one of the favorite Caribbean destinations that vacationers always return to."
Who should go: Beach lovers. Anguilla has 33 uncrowded beaches to discover. Also, snorkeling enthusiasts can enjoy huge coral gardens on Dog Island or Shoal Bay.
Don't miss: Exploring the island on a Moke, an open-air rental vehicle. Or take a five-minute boat ride for the fresh seafood on Scilly Cay. Make sure to introduce yourself to Alexander, who has taken over his family business and serves one of the best rum punches on the island.
The franciscan Church of Annunciation and the Triple Bridge at dusk.
6. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why visit? Ljubljana is the picturesque capital of Slovenia, a small country rich in culture, gastronomy and natural wonders. "Not far from the capital, you can enjoy snow-capped peaks, turquoise rivers and a Venetian style coastline," says Laurie Robinson, luxury travel advisor for Ovation Travel Group. "Castles and gorgeous landscapes are moderately priced compared to other European countries."
Who should go: Romantics, history and gastronomy buffs, as well as outdoor activists.
Don't miss: Ljubljana's many bridges, its castle and funicular with its setting on the river providing an engaging café scene and compelling art venues.
Faroe Islands, one of the remotest destinations on the list of top places to visit in 2022.
7. Faroe Islands
Why visit? The Faroe Islands, an 18-island archipelago north of Scotland, lying between Iceland and Norway, are a place of rustic beauty and spectacular landscapes. It may be one of the most remote destinations on this list of the 22 best places to travel in 2022. "The terrain is rugged, but the experience is beautiful and exciting," says Elaine Esposito, a luxury travel advisor for Ovation Travel Group. "It is a destination waiting to be explored and definitely a vacation with bragging rights."
Who should go: Foodies and anyone who enjoys nature, hiking, fresh ocean air, puffins, sheep, and Faroese salmon.
Don't miss: The ferry ride to Mykines Island. The journey takes you past Drangarnir Arch, the "sea stack" rock formation with a hole in the middle. And the hike to the Mykines lighthouse is unforgettable.
Castello Aragonese in Ischia Ponte, on Ischia island near Naples, Italy. Many little boats in the ... [+]
8. Ischia, Italy
Why visit? Ischia, the island often referred to as Capri's big sister, is located in the Gulf of Naples and is only accessible by private boat, ferry or hydrofoil. "This gives the island a cachet of exclusivity and privilege. While jet setters make their pilgrimage to Capri, those in the know have flocked to Ischia for decades," says Barbara Hammer, president of BH Travel Group, an affiliate of Ovation Travel Group.
Who should go: Ischia is the perfect destination for those who have visited the more mainstream resorts like Capri and Positano. It is also a destination for families and couples who are looking for an activity-filled Italian getaway.
Don't miss: A meal at Ristorante Emanuela, located on Maronti Beach, which is famous for cooking their fresh fish and local meats cooked in the ground using volcanic properties.
Hiking to the top of Moraine Lake in Banff National Park.
9. Banff, Canada
Why visit? Banff was established as Canada's first national park in 1885. "And to many, it represents the essence of what Canada is all about," says Andrew Williams, managing director of Travel at Will, an Ovation Travel Group affiliate. "Banff is an easily accessible wilderness that seamlessly caters experiences for travelers of all types. Untamed wilderness meets modern urban development lures in everyone from rugged mountaineers to busloads of sightseeing senior citizens."
Who should go: Nature lovers, fisherman and active travelers.
Don't miss: Nature is the main attraction here. In warmer months, don't miss a hike in the Canadian Rockies or kayaking on Lake Minnewanka. In the winter, hit the slopes at one of the local ski resorts.
Diver viewing endangered green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas agassisi), resting in reef, Galapagos ... [+]
10. Galapagos Islands
Why visit? "The Galapagos Islands are like no other place with unique wildlife up close and primeval immersion in nature," says Marcella Rappoport, president of MR Journeys, an affiliate of Ovation Travel Group.
Who should go: Nature lovers, science geeks and even those looking for romance.
Don't miss: Snorkeling with sea lions, swimming with turtles, and scouting for whales.
Cala Figuera, Mallorca, Spain.
11. Majorca, Spain
Why visit? Majorca offers an air of authenticity from its natural beauty to its thriving artist community across the island, as well as organic olive groves and ancient stone villages. "From the freshly grated tomatoes with olive oil for your toast in the morning, to the scent of orange blossoms in the air, authenticity is the feeling Majorca gives you," says Fiona Bayne, luxury travel advisor, Ovation Travel Group.
Who should go: Couples and families.
Don't miss: The austere splendor and luxurious privacy at Cap Rocat, an ancient fort perched on the edge of the sea. Try one of the suites with a private pool carved from the rock.
Porto, Portugal old town skyline from across the Douro River.
12. Porto, Portugal
Why visit? In a region considered the birthplace of Portugal, Porto offers great culinary and wine experiences, fabulous boutique hotels and great value. "Be sure to dine at Casa de Cha da Boa Nova. Built on the rocks, overlooking the sea, this restaurant in Leca da Palmeira has received two Michelin stars,"says Ashley Diamond, a luxury travel consultant affiliated with Ovation Travel Group. And Portugal currently has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.
Who should go: Couples, friends, adults, history buffs, oenophiles and those looking for a different corner of Europe to explore.
Don't miss: Wine tasting in the Douro Valley and exploring the region by boat down the Douro River. From Porto you can also explore World Heritage sites such as Guimaraes.
Bodrum castle and harbor in Bodrum, Turkey.
13. Bodrum, Turkey
Why visit? Bodrum is one of the hottest up-and-coming destinations, with many new luxury hotels opening. "It offers a gorgeous seaside with incredible food," says Lebovitch. "There are trendy 'see and be seen' beach clubs as well as more remote beach clubs."
Who should go: Trend-seekers, sunbathers and foodies. Bodrum appeals to anyone looking for a beach vacation alongside culture.
Do not miss: Charter a yacht from Bodrum's harbor and explore the rocky Bodrum peninsula.
Baie Beau Vallon, a tropical beach on island Mahe in Seychelles.
14. Seychelles
Why visit? The Seychelles offer an idyllic place to travel as home to some of the world's best beaches, with picturesque turquoise waters and breathtaking coral reefs. "The word 'paradise' was likely created as a tribute to these majestic islands," says Kherri Jean, CEO of Full of Wander Travel, an Ovation Travel Group affiliate. "There are also tons of five-star hotels like the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles that specialize in creating unparalleled luxury experiences for their guests."
Who should go: Couples looking for a luxury retreat or nature lovers in search of their next rare find.
Don't miss: A visit to Aldabra Atoll to meet their famous residents, the giant tortoises, who are known as the oldest living creatures on earth.
Napa Valley wine country mountain hillside vineyard growing crops for grape harvest and winery ... [+]
15. Napa Valley, Calif.
Why visit? Napa is close to home with private residences that are in favor today – a perfect long weekend getaway to recharge and refuel while experiencing some of the top food and beverage in the country. "After a devastating loss from fire, the valley is thriving with top chefs at the French Laundry remaining a favorite," says Steinberg. "Plus, the wines are better than ever and more activities are being offered within five star resorts. With the new Four Seasons Napa, new Montage property and a few Auberge properties slated to open in 2022, the buzz is loud."
Who should go: A great place for couples to celebrate alone or with friends of any age.
Don't miss: Naturally, don't miss wine and olive oil tastings. Don't miss French Laundry for dinner, or the Four Seasons Napa and Montage Hotel for accommodations.
Night scene of Plaza Grande (Plaza de la Independencia) in Quito, Ecuador featuring Carondelet ... [+]
16. Quito, Ecuador
Why visit? Quito has Spanish Colonial architecture and cobblestoned streets, while the area surrounding the city features lush hills, volcanic mountains and snow-capped peaks. "Quito is astonishingly beautiful," says Williams. "It was one of the first two World Cultural Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO in 1978. The Old Town is the least altered, best preserved and largest in the Americas."
Who should go: History buffs, xenophiles and antiquarians.
Don't miss: When visiting Quito, take in the Old Town with a historical tour of the grand cathedrals on the edge of town and the well-preserved Spanish Colonial houses in La Ronda.
Typical Pintxos, tapas, on a bar counter in San Sebastian, Donostia, Basque region, Spain.
17. San Sebastian, Spain
Why visit? You'll find several renowned Michelin-star restaurants in this village on the north coast of Spain. "Famously home to Basque cuisine and pintxo bars that define how locals socialize," says Gandhi. "San Sebastian also offers a city beach to lounge and laze during the day for a siesta." For the art and history lovers there is architecture, with emblematic edifices dating back centuries.
Who should go: Food lovers. Bar hopping from one pintxo bar to another speaks to the variety of endless tapas.
Don't miss: A roller coaster ride on top of Mount Igueldo to see the breathtaking panorama views of Concha Bay and San Sebastian. Also don't forget to eat a slice of a burnt Basque cheesecake from La Vina; it's the best way to end the day.
Pink Lake in Yucatán, Mexico.
18. Yucatan, Mexico
Why visit? Rich in Mayan history and immersed in lush tropical jungle, Mexico's Yucatan is a destination where nature, wellness and culture are fused together. "It is great for visiting Mayan ruins and exploring colonial towns," says Levy.
Who should go: Ideal for those seeking relaxation or those looking for unique and distinctive experience.
Don't miss: The tequila tasting at the Chable Yucatan.
Lighthouse of L'Ile Louet as seen from Pointe de Penn-al-Lann, Brittany.
19. Pink Granite Coast, France
Why visit? The Pink Granite Coast is wild and beautiful, full of extraordinary pink rock formations that stretch over tiny islands and inlets, perfect for hiking, cycling and exploring. "Perros Guirrec and Tregastel have great hotels – Castel Beau Site and Manoir Lan Kerellec," says Robinson. "Plus, the area has amazing cuisine."
Who should go: Adventurers, boaters and anyone looking for a really authentic outdoor experience.
Don't miss: Paimpol beach and the car-free Brehat. Sept Isles National Park is home to a huge colony of puffins and cormorants. Walk from Tregastel Beach to Ploumanac'h to see the rock formations.
The road to Little Kulala Lodge in Namibia.
20. Namibia
Why visit? For those craving the uncrowded outdoors, Namibia offers access to nature, wilderness and wildlife in abundance. "After the extended period in lockdown, Namibia offers wide-open spaces," says Robinson.
Who should go: Anyone who enjoys wild, open spaces, deserts, and the road less-traveled, including those seeking luxurious accommodations with few other people around.
Don' miss: Spitzkoppe offers breathtaking landscapes of an outcrop of granite peaks rising from the desert. Stay for sunset or camp under the stars.
Blue coloured medina in Chefchaouen, Morocco.
21. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Why visit? Known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen has retained Andalusian-influenced soul; this town is the most Hispano-Moorish influenced of Moroccan cities. "With houses built into the mountainside, narrow, winding streets and a haunting blue light that washes over the city, Chefchaouen feels like a dream," says Diamond. "This enchanting provincial capital lends itself to strolls, which are perfect for discovering its rich heritage, admiring the architectural treasures that populate its alleys, and meeting the people who live and work there."
Who should go: Culture seekers and travelers looking for authentic experiences.
Don't miss: Getting lost in Chefchaouen's medina.
Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktshang) in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
22. Paro, Bhutan
Why visit? Bhutan is an otherworldly destination shrouded in mystery, where a traditional Buddhist culture gradually embraces global progress. "Still one of the most unknown and unexplored countries in the world, Bhutan fascinates visitors because of its spectacular scenery and unmatched cultural prosperity," says Williams. "In Paro, you can't help but find serenity surrounded by magnificent mountains coddled in the welcoming embrace of the locals' hospitality. Bhutan's philosophy of Gross National Happiness permeates every aspect of daily life."
Who should go: Wellness travelers (physical or mental), xenophiles and historians.
Do not miss: Take the hike up to the Tiger's Nest Monastery. Travelers with mobility challenges can make part of the journey on horseback.
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