Top 20 destinations to visit in 2020

Posted 6 November, 2019 Lauren Ferrone

From tropical islands to green pastures, we count down the locations that should be at the top of every travel bucket list.  

20. Great Barrier Reef

Queensland As the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef is more than great – it’s breathtaking. See for yourself by snorkelling beneath the surface to discover an abundance of colourful marine life, from microscopic fish to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes.    

19. Egypt

Middle East Head 40km south of Cairo to see the perfectly imperfect Bent Pyramid. Known for its curved walls, the rough-around-the-edges pyramid was specially shaped by ancient Egyptians to stop it from collapsing. And now you can get a glimpse inside. It reopened in July 2019 for the first time in more than 50 years.

18. Maldives

South Asia There’s a reason the secluded Maldives is revered as a honeymoon destination – palm-fringed atoll islands, clear turquoise water, and year-round sunshine make this small country in the Indian Ocean the quintessential luxury escape. For a cheaper stay, book for the off-season between May and October.    

17. Banff

Canada If you’re after a thrill, Banff is a haven for skiers and snowboarders hitting the slopes. Snow-capped mountains make the perfect backdrop as adventurers glide down the powder. In summer, the picturesque resort town transforms into a rock climbing destination, with countless summits for aspiring alpinists. To see the mountains from a different angle, ride a gondola 7500-feet up Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park.

16. Kruger National Park

South Africa Get up close to some of the world’s most dangerous animals – and live to tell the tale. The Big Five tour at Kruger National Park takes visitors into the natural habitats of lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos and leopards. How many can you tick off?    

15. Miami

USA Miami’s biggest magnet is South Beach, a popular hangout which transforms into party central at night. Cruise the main strip, Ocean Drive, then dine at one of the many celebrity chef-owned eateries before hitting the beach bars. Perhaps you want to sail the seas instead – Miami’s the home port to many cruise liners setting sail to the Caribbean.

14. Lombok

Indonesia Break away from buzzing Bali and head to Lombok where the surf is consistent, life moves a little slower and, best of all, there are fewer tourists. The beachside town of Kuta, on the south coast, is an idyllic place to chase waves or lie on the beach. Don’t let it confuse you with Bali’s Kuta, known for its party atmosphere.