Heading to one of these places to visit? Discover a new secret getaway for your next holiday! We asked the team at Skyscanner to outline some of the less-visited places that are growing in popularity this year. Get your travel on, now!
#1 Reykjavik, Iceland
This walkable and urbane city boasts plenty of culture and art, along with famous geothermal pools, and magical surrounding tundras. The Northern Lights are said to be dimming, too, so catch them while you can.
#2 Hua Hin, Thailand
A getaway for Bangkok residents since the 1920s, Hua Hin’s beaches, water sports and humble seafood huts still beckon. Hua Hin Jazz Festival is another attraction, or charter a boat to Monkey Island to explore, fish and swim.
#3 Paro, Bhutan
Paro features classical Bhutanese architecture and temples, including Taktsang Monastery, the famous “Tiger’s Nest” retreat perched on a cliff. There isn’t much shopping beyond local markets, but there’s plenty of spiritual calm.
#4 Sapporo, Japan
Hokkaido’s biggest city is getting attention for its seafood, festivals, beer (at Japan’s oldest brewery) and more – not to mention world-class skiing. Come for the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, and ward off the chill in a hot spring.
#5 Dunedin, New Zealand
A picturesque South Island town founded in the Victorian era, Dunedin has a large Maori influence and plenty of Kiwi culture, and is a great base for tackling the nearby hiking and cycling trails of the dramatic Otago Peninsula.
#6 Tiruchirapalli, India
This Tamil town has thrived since ancient Roman times, and is renowned for its temples and monuments. Explore the Rock Fort and enjoy a picnic at Puliyancholai Falls. And don’t leave without tasting some authentic thosai!
#7 Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Don’t overlook Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s other big city, as it offers plenty and is a gateway to some wonderful wilderness. Aside from skyscrapers, including the 250m Tuntex Sky Tower, you’ll find a lovely harbour,and amazing shopping and dining.
#8 Tokyo, Japan
Why is the Japanese capital trending? Perhaps because it’s easier to navigate than ever before (or perhaps because Skyscanner has some great Tokyo deals!). Visit the imperial palace, head to Tokyo Skytree for views, then shop, dine and party in Shinjuku and Shibuya.
#9 Hobart, Australia
Cool stuff is happening on the island state of Tasmania, and its quaint capital is a charming base for venturing to the untamed back-country. There are historic waterfront restaurants and bustling markets, plus a striking modern art museum.
#10 Zagreb, Croatia
This ancient town is classical and fun. In winter, it’s a short drive to fantastic ski slopes; in the summer, rent a bike to take in the sights. The squares and markets are quintessentially European, and the young people know how to have a good time.
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We asked a few regional Skyscanner staff for tips on their local cities
Pamela Knaggs; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
What are three must-sees for first- timers to KL?
1. Batu Caves – limestone caves at the top of steep steps housing Hindu temples and shrines.
2. Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers – tallest structure of its kind in the world, and a beautiful piece of architecture, right in the heart of the city.
3. Lake Gardens – KL’s “green lung”, with more than 220 acres of botanical collections.
Name a hidden gem.
Bangsar. Not really “hidden” but this small suburb has everything packed into a few streets: good food and coffee (local and international), bars, pubs, hair salons, massage parlours, gyms, supermarkets, boutiques and more. There’s something for everyone here.
What three dishes would you recommend to visitors
1. Village Park nasi lemak in Damansara Uptown, for legit coconut rice and fried chicken.
2. Robert’s char kway teow at Say Huat Restaurant in SS17.
3. Raj’s banana leaf rice in Bangsar.
Tao Liang; Xi’An, China
What are three must-sees for first- timers to Xi’an?
1. Terracotta Army – this renowned collection of sculptures was buried with a Qin Dynasty emperor to protect him in the afterlife.
2. City Wall – built in the Ming Dynasty as a military defence system, the wall is well preserved enough for you to cycle on top for a great city view.
3. Muslim Quarter (Huimin Street) – this street is famous for its snacks; best visited in the evening.
Name a hidden gem.
The nearby Qinling Mountains divide China into North and South, and they’re worth exploring. You can fish, cycle, hike or just enjoy the pure natural environment.
What three dishes would you recommend to visitors?
1. Roujiamo – a sandwich of pork that has been stewed in a soup of more than 20 spices and seasonings for hours.
2. Paomo – a hot stew of chopped and steamed leavened bread, cooked in a lamb or beef broth.
3. Hulatang – traditional Chinese soup of beef, pepper and chilli.
Yulianto Balawan; Jakarta, Indonesia
What are three must-sees for first- timers to Jakarta?
1. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah – a park that gives visitors a glimpse at Indonesia’s different ethnic houses and cultural influences.
2. Taman Safari – a great zoo for kids; you can drive your own vehicle and experience the wild in comfort.
3. Kepulauan Seribu (Thousand Islands) – a 30- to 40-minute boat ride away, this island chain has beautiful beaches, coral reefs and island-hopping opportunities.
Name a hidden gem.
In the Pancoran/Glodok area, experience old Batavia and Chinese culture while shopping for bargain electronic gadgets and more. Prices are negotiatiable, and the food is amazing!
What three dishes would you recommend to visitors?
1. Martabak manis – a sweet melt-in-the- mouth pancake in chocolate, peanut, Nutella and other flavours.
2. Sate – chicken and lamb skewers dipped in a uniquely Indonesian peanut sauce that will make your tongue dance.
3. Bakmie ayam (chicken noodle) – another favourite food of Jakartans; who doesn’t love this dish?
Book cheap flights, hotels and car rental via the Skyscanner website, or download the free mobile app for easy browsing and booking on the go. skyscanner.com.sg
This is an article that first appeared in the Travel Guide 2017. Purchase a copy or subscribe now so you never miss an issue!
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