Travel Tips & News

Wondering Where to Travel in 2020?

Recently updated on August 14th, 2023 at 04:58 pm

The time is here to start planning next year’s holidays. To help you decide where to travel in 2020, we have put together this list of 11 Top 2020 Travel Destinations filled with exciting places that might not be on your radar yet. But they should be. 

Colombia

Woman drinking coffee in Cartagena Old Town

Record low crime rates and record high tourism numbers have seen Colombia topping lists of 2020 travel destinations. This salsa-laden Latin country has shaken off its bad boy reputation and is attracting travellers from across the globe thanks to its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and welcoming people. As a gateway to the Caribbean, African, indigenous and European cultures have melded together over the years to create a truly eclectic country. It showcases a diversity not seen in other parts of South America. Part Caribbean, part Amazonian, with a healthy splash of urbanity, Colombia offers something for everyone. From the now iconic streets of Medellin to the idyllic beaches of Santa Marta, Colombia is a destination that should be moved to the top of your bucket list. 

Trafalgar has launched an incredible new trip, Colombia Rediscovered, in 2020. You’ll dine with the titans of sustainable agriculture in their beach front villa, meet members of a reclusive indigenous tribe, shimmy and shake with a Carnival Queen. You’ll also explore Medellin’s  Comuna 13, the former playground of Pablo Escobar, and hear from our Local Specialist how the community is being transformed after a history of blood and cartel warfare. 

Visit Colombia on: Best of Colombia

Turkey

Whirling dervish in Turkey

Whirling dervishes, Ottoman palaces and sun-kissed beaches, Turkey’s exotic allure is going to be more irresistible than ever in 2020. The country has a truly unique Mediterranean-meets-Middle Eastern vibe that allows you to kill two birds with one stone. Famous sights like the Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul are definite must-sees, and the beguiling crystal blue waters thermal waters in the white pools of Pumakkele (the “cotton castle” are a sight that everyone should behold at least once in their lives. 

In addition to the sights, the culinary scene in Turkey is sure to leave you hungry for more. From the strong Turkish coffee to savoury dishes that represent Turkey’s melting pot of cultural influences, there is plenty to delight the palate. 

Visit Turkey on: Best of Turkey

Egypt

Man on camel in front of Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

After several years of political unrest, Egypt is having a much-welcomed resurgence. The world is ready to return to one of their favourite African destinations. The Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, Mount Sinai, and the exquisite Red Sea diving in the Sinai Peninsula have people flocking back to this exciting country in droves. And the local tourism community are thrilled to welcome guests back to its country with open arms. 

There’s no better way to explore the wonders of Egypt than with a cruise down the Nile River. Journeying through this ancient land is an incredible experience that brings one of the most interesting and influential cultures of all time to life, one exciting stop after the next. 

Visit Egypt on: Egyptian Voyager

Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia is where to travel in 2020

Slovenia is one of those countries that isn’t on many traveller’s radars. But once they visit, they instantly fall in love. If you’re looking for where to travel in 2020 and want something a little further off the tourist trail, Slovenia is the perfect destination for you. The incredible richness of the green countryside is enough to make you want to lose yourself here forever. And a trip to Bled Island in the serenity of the surrounding lake is as a meditation session for the mind, body and soul. However, it’s not only the nature that is leaving people in awe, many are pleasantly surprised at the quaint cosmopolitan vibe of Ljubljana. 

Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana is also one of the greenest cities in Europe. Cars are banned in the city centre. So, you are free to stroll along the winding cobblestone laneways at a leisurely pace, popping into the small shops, cute cafes and plentiful restaurants that line the streets. 

Visit Slovenia on: Best of Croatia and Slovenia

Georgia

Tbilisi, Georgia

No, we aren’t talking about a trip to America’s Deep South, it’s the small country of Georgia that’s attracting international visitors in growing numbers. One of the main reasons people keep coming back to Georgia are the welcoming faces that greet them each time they arrive. This country is a culture clash in all the best ways, and that is impressively displayed in the capital city of Tbilisi. Tbilisi is a multi-hued city filled with a blend of 19th-century wooden buildings and ultra modern architecture. This time-bending aesthetic is also reflected in the culture of the people that call Tbilisi home. They are very proud of their heritage, still battling Soviet rule after the 2003 Rose Invasion by Russia. Despite this, the city has a cool metropolitan air, with funk cafes, a happening nightlife, galleries, gardens and so much more. 

Nestled in a valley beside the Mtkvari River, this is a place you really should see with your own eyes. 

Visit Georgia on: Georgia and Armenia Uncovered

(British Colombia, Canada)

glacier lake in British Colombia. Canada is one of the top 2020 travel destinations

Oh, Canada! I mean what’s not to love: the almost unnaturally friendly people, the beautiful scenery, super-trendy cities. This country has it all. But some of the best of what Canada has to offer can be found on its west coast in the province of British Columbia. This incredible region, in between the Rockies and the Pacific, is a lush green paradise where outdoor enthusiasts can run amuck. World class skiing, alpine views, winding rivers, crystal clear glacial waters, and some pretty cool flora and fauna, make this region a go-to any time of year. 

Make sure to spend a little time in Vancouver before heading out to enjoy Mother Nature in all her maple leaf-laden glory. One of the most liveable cities in the world, Vancouver has stunning archipelago, sweeping ocean views, world-class shopping and cuisine. 

Visit British Columbia on: Iconic Rockies and Western Canada

The Scottish Highlands

man playing bagpipes in the Scottish Highlands

Seeing a boom in popularity on the back of the popular Outlander series, the Scottish Highlands is a destination that is sure to capture your heart. From kilt-clad bagpipers to plaid-wearing sheep farmers, the highlands of Scotland are a fantasy turned real. However, this region is also filled with some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United Kingdom, it’s ‘wee bit hills and glens’ and well-preserved castles have plaid background to countless films such as James Bond: The World Is Not Enough and Harry Potter. 

Sip a local whisky aged well into its teenage years and enjoy a warm meal and some Highland hospitality. No matter where you’re from, it’s easy to feel at home here. 

Visit the Scottish Highlands on: Scotland’s Highlands, Islands and Cities

Tasmania & Western Australia (Australia)

Bay of Fires, Tasmania, Australia

Technically, these are two destinations. And due to the immense size of the country, you will need to give yourself some time to see both. But if you’re wondering where to travel in 2020, seeing both is definitely something we recommend. Western Australia is one of the hottest new destinations not only in the country, but in the world. Lonely Planet named Margaret River as the Best Destination in Asia-Pacific 2019, and it’s easy to see why. This wild coastline boasts a cute little town with some of the best wineries, breweries and restaurants in the country. And nearby Perth is one of the hippest cities in Australia. 

But, further to the South, lies a real treat for those that want to get off-the-beaten-path. The island of Tasmania is full of natural wonder, rich Aboriginal heritage and undeveloped beaches with an almost tropical vibe. Trafalgar is excited to announce a new experience that takes guests on a 2-day hike with members of the local Aboriginal tribe across their sacred homeland in Tasmania’s Bay of Fires for a unique experience filled with natural wonder and meaningful cultural encounters. 

Visit Tasmania on: Perfect Tasmania

Get the best of both and combine these trips for one amazing adventure down under. 

Namibia

if you're wondering where to travel in 2020 head to Deadvlei, Namibia

As tourism numbers begin to rise all over the Africa, travel to this diverse continent is one of the growing 2020 travel trends. One destination that is poised to see a boost in the coming year is Namibia. Namibia is home to one of the world’s oldest deserts, with sweeping sand dunes and sprawling canyons. Untouched wilderness stretches out in all directions, dry but somehow so full of life. Home to Africa’s Big 5, Namibia is perfect for a safari to see which wild and wonderful creatures you can encounter. Visit the Etosha National Park to see desert-roaming elephants or head to Damaraland, the home of the largest population of free-ranging rhinos in Africa. 

And, join Traflagar to meet the members of the OvaHimba tribe. Wise and welcoming, this is the last semi-nomadic tribe in Namibia. 

Visit Namibia on: Namibia Adventure

South Island (New Zealand)

sunset over lake in Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand

Southern hospitality takes on a new meaning on New Zealand’s South Island. While the popular city of Auckland and sets from the Lord Of The Rings have been bringing tourists to the North Island in droves, you’re really missing out if you don’t take the time to explore the magic lying a little further south. With the wineries in the north, fjords in the south, cool colonial cities in the east and glaciers in the west, this small island really does pack a punch. And, to think, you can drive from top to bottom of the South Island in twelve hours. This region is so diverse that you can walk out of a rainforest and find yourself at the foot of a glacier.

You won’t want to miss the TranzApline train, one of the world’s most beautiful train rides that runs from Greymouth on the west coast to Christchurch on the east, or the chance to cruise along Milford Sound surrounded by towering fjords. 

 See New Zealand’s South Island on: Southern Spectacular

Southwest National Parks (USA)

couple standing at the edge of Grand Canyon National Park

If you love jaw-dropping nature and wide-open vistas, you have to head to America’s southwest and visit the region’s many National Parks. World-famous bucket list items like the soaring redwood trees in Yosemite, the sun setting over the Grand Canyon, the painted rock formations and rich Native American heritage will stay with you long after you return home. This is nature in all its grandeur. 

With overnights in the national parks that let you enjoy them before and after the busy tourist hours, you can enjoy the best these parks have to offer. And with our new active itineraries, you can get out and explore them on foot, hiking through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country, if not the world. 

Visit the National Parks on: Five Epic National Parks 

When deciding where to travel in 2020, these destinations are just the tip of the iceberg. Our tours let you explore these amazing places and more. Visit our website to see all our exciting 2020 holidays. 

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