16 Best Places to Travel in 2022
Published on: December 15th, 2021
Last updated: December 28th, 2023
Find your Dream Destination
After an extended period of holding back on travel plans, you’ve started to dream about packing your suitcase once more and setting off on fresh adventures. As you reflect on the past months, you’re setting your sights on the future, making lists of new places you’d love to discover, or even those you long to return to.
As always, we turn to our team of travel designers for vacation ideas, to see which places are the ones to watch for over the coming months. With the industry getting back on its feet in 2021, they have been able to go on trips, to get under the skin of some of our favourite destinations and eventually bring you the best of the best.
Plan 2022 with Peace of Mind
As you might know, making travel plans today has become more difficult than ever. That’s why we previously introduced our Peace of Mind policy allowing you to postpone or rebook your trip with Jacada free of charge. The good news is that this policy is here to stay, permanently. So whenever you’re ready, our team of travel experts is here to help you plan the trip you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Colombia
Incredible culture, delectable cuisine, unmatched biodiversity and charming architecture make Colombia one of the best places to visit all year round. It is a uniquely diverse destination with an abundance of historical landmarks and hidden gems. Come February, Colombia hosts the iconic Barranquilla Carnival.
In its Coffee Triangle, you can tour coffee plantations and taste the country’s most famous export. A visit to Sierra Nevada brings you to the world’s highest coastal mountain formation. This part of Colombia is best enjoyed for its lush green rainforests featuring multiple hiking trails. It’s also a place where jaguars still roam free. But the showstopper here is The Lost City or Ciudad Perdida, birthplace of the Tayrona people. Reaching it by foot involves a multi-day hike featuring steep climbs and river crossings. Travel Designer David suggests you opt for a scenic aerial adventure instead.
Colombia is also Cartagena. The city is defined by rainbow-coloured houses and cobblestone streets. It is a wild playground for those wishing to take salsa lessons and go rum tasting. Cartagena is also the epicenter of Colombia’s historical richness. It’s Spanish-style buildings offer a doorway to stories of the past.
Joining the list is Medellín, a destination that’s at its most incredible in August when its streets are further transformed for the Feria de Las Flores. This week-long extravaganza features festive flower parades set to the sounds of Colombian music, bursting with an undeniably contagious energy. The capital, Bogotá, flaunts its renaissance with some of the most modern restaurants in the whole of South America. The city is also characterized by an incredible art scene made up of galleries and museums.
2. Namibia
Namibia is Southern Africa’s up and coming destination. Being a country of diverse wildlife, it is home to a significant population of cheetahs. Namibia is recognised for its landscapes made of sweeping sand dunes and dramatic views. You can find the world’s oldest desert here.
Until now, Namibia has been overlooked by its neighbouring siblings. South Africa and Botswana have long stolen the spotlight. But our team of experts at Jacada knows that Namibia deserves immense recognition as one of Africa’s greatest safari destinations.
For Travel Designer Jody, Namibia is a destination that’s unmatched. After all, it is one of the most sparsely populated countries on earth. Highlights include the otherworldly landscape of the Sossusvlei, fascinating wildlife of Etosha National Park and ancient culture of the Himba tribe. In the northernmost, Skeleton Coast is where you can spot eerie shipwrecks. To soak up the country’s remoteness, base yourself at Wilderness Safaris’ Hoanib Camp.
3. Australia
Australia is a country of untamed wilderness, indigenous lands and vibrant city life. From Sydney to Darwin, passing by The Outbacks, there are many ways to immerse yourself in this multifaceted destination. It’s also a culturally-diverse place with welcoming locals and amazing fusion cuisine.
For our travel designers, there’s little to no convincing needed when it comes to Australia. The country is vast and varied, with something for every traveller. Under-the-radar gems include the marine-rich Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered as one of the greatest natural wonders of the world and rightly so. Today, 30 species of cetaceans, more than 1500 types of fish and the graceful dugong call it home. To make the most of this paradise on earth, exclusive hideaways exist. Lizard Island being one of them. Get whisked by private charter and set foot on this utterly isolated island resort. In the surroundings, there’s also the Whitsunday Islands. It is renowned as a yachting destination, so you know what to expect: some of the finest beach spots in the world.
But Australia is more than just incredible beaches and azure waters. It is also where you can uncork some of the world’s best wines. South Australia particularly, is a hub for oenophiles. It houses the Barossa Valley. The area is peppered with endless vineyards, boutique wineries and some splendid culinary delights. Not too far off the southern coast, Kangaroo Island plays host to pristine wilderness. Like its name suggests, the island is home to one of the largest populations of kangaroos.
There’s also the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne which houses a plethora of glitzy restaurants. It is the perfect base to head off and explore Victoria’s Great Ocean Road and Phillip Islands’ sandy beaches.
4. Indonesia
Located off the coast of mainland South East Asia, Indonesia is a country where beach-meets-jungle. It is home to a splendid array of biodiversity, with some of the best dive sites in the world. The world-class destination also features some of the finest resorts.
This chain of more than 17,000 islands serves unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush jungles that are just waiting to be explored. Add to this a collection of UNESCO Heritage Sites. The Temple of Borobudur in central Java being one of them.
Some of the islands also remain inhabited by intriguing tribes. Sulawesi for instance, is home to the ‘Sea Gypsies’ – a fascinating group of mobile maritime people who spend their whole life at sea, where the ocean is their playground and hunting ground.
For a time, everyone’s paradise was Bali. Now, other islands have taken over. Equally (if not more) idyllic, there is the untouched island of Sumba. Until today, it has been a surf mecca but its healthy coral reefs teeming with life serve as a haven for divers. Sumba is also where you’ll find the eco-friendly resort of Nihi Sumba. Pioneering sustainable practices, the resort was born with a vision to protect and preserve the unique culture of the island.
Adding to the long list of islands that are worthy of escaping to, travel designer Rachels also recommends Flores and Raja Ampat. From there, the best way to explore is aboard a private yacht. In Flores, the Komodo National Park offers Jurassic-like landscapes while the healthy ecosystem of Raja Ampat calls for some well-needed time in and under water. For now, Flores, Raja Ampat and Sumba remain far less commercialized than other islands like Bali and Lombok. Go before that changes.
5. Italy
Italy is home to vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, fantastic food, incredible museums and rich cultural heritage. It’s capital city Rome offers impressive shopping options. Sicily has sparkling seas and a live volcano. Italy’s long list of iconic landmarks also make it a destination worth visiting.
La dolce vita begins in Tuscany, a region concealed by rolling hills, dotted with fig trees and olive groves. It is a playground for gourmands, nature lovers and of course wine connoisseurs. For Travel Designer Melania Siriu, a real Tuscan experience comprises vineyard touring and vino tasting, best paired with the region’s farm-to-table cuisine. Belmond Castello di Casole awaits when you want to put both feet up.
Then there’s the glamorous Amalfi Coast which barely needs any introduction. This part of Italy makes a name for itself in food, lifestyle and design. Come for its blue bays, stay for its collection of restaurants – some of the finest in Europe. On The Amalfi Coast, you can experience the best of both worlds, affluent sophistication and laid back simplicity. It is a place full of possibilities.
The Dolomites and The Alps are next. No trip to Italy is complete without visiting its soaring peaks. Keep it for December 2022, when the region transforms into a real life snow globe. Unsurprisingly, this is the best season for skiing and other winter activities.
6. India
With its potpourri of traditions, India is a kaleidoscope of colours and cultures, captivating landscapes and unspoiled nature. Home to a rich population of tigers, India offers matchless wildlife viewing. It is also renowned for its tempting array of local food and charmingly preserved heritage hotels.
To us, this vast nation is simply irresistible. Classics include destinations like Delhi and Jaipur. To experience an India like never before, head over to Rural Rajasthan. Hotel options are also endless. But like for everything else in life, the team at Jacada has some personal favourites, of which the recently-added Six Senses Fort Barwara and the well-loved SUJÁN Sher Bagh.
As the home of curry, the cuisine in India is widely acknowledged as one of the tastiests in the world. An abundance of spices and fresh fish means Kerala produces some of the best food in India. Here, the best way to explore is onboard a traditional boat. Combine your trip to Kerala with a stop in the Maldives for some ultimate island bliss.
Travel Designer Rachel O’Leary highlights that India is also a nation that loves to celebrate. In March, the glorious country transforms into a rainbow of hues as the festival of Holi takes place. There is also the Hindu Festival of Light, Diwali happening between October and November.
7. Rwanda
Incredible national parks and extraordinary wildlife make Rwanda one of the best places to visit in Africa. The main activity here is gorilla trekking and game viewing. June to September is the best time to visit to spot gorillas. There are also dormant volcanoes to explore.
Rwanda is always a good idea, which is why it keeps finding its way onto our shortlist. Moving from 2021 to 2022, we still feel repeatedly compelled to honour the land of mountain gorillas. Speaking of primates, in 2022 Wilderness Safaris continues to work on the restoration of Gishwati Forest, a development that is executed with the greatest care. Soon enough, chimpanzees and monkeys will get to call the area home. In the meantime, Volcanoes National Park is where you go for encounters. Adding to its appeal is the exclusive Bisate Lodge that resembles giant bird nests.
In north east Rwanda, sharing borders with Tanzania, you can access Akagera National Park. A safari in this wildlife haven brings you up close with species ranging from rhinos, lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras and many more. For this upcoming new year, Travel Designer Tessa van der Winsor dreams of the remarkable Magashi Camp set overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga.
8. Japan
Japan is a diverse country filled with history, culture and natural beauty. It offers travellers innumerable sights to see. In the winter, there are snow-covered mountains for skiing. Spring sees cherry blossoms, while autumn leaves appear between November and December.
You might have noticed that it is listed on our best places to go in 2021 but Japan is a country we can’t get enough of at Jacada. Of its many amazing places, there is Hakone, renowned for its bubbling hot springs at every turn. It also houses a traditional Japanese retreat which we have a soft spot for: Gora Kadan.
Then of course we have Tokyo, Japan’s capital city that’s nothing but mesmerizing. Exceedingly modern, it’s also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the whole country. Top of the list should be an exclusive Omakase experience, followed by a cup of sake. There’s also another reason to love Tokyo. The city is home to Aman Tokyo, a bespoke hotel that does luxury like nowhere else.
Rachel O’Leary, our Asia Specialist Travel Designer recommends visiting between March and April to catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms. That’s when cities like Kyoto, Okinawa and Hokkaido get covered in a sea of pink. She suggests traveling to Lake Kawaguchiko for scene-stealing views of the mighty Mount Fuji surrounded by blossoms. Having spent a big amount of her time in Japan, Rachel also shares that it is “one of the best places to spend Autumn in Asia”.
2022 will also see the opening of Japan’s very first Bulgari Hotel. The hotel will take over seven floors of an upcoming ultra-skyscraper and will be set within walking distance from the iconic Ginza shopping district. And in 2023, the much-talked about Aman Niseko will open the country’s first destination wellness retreat.
9. Tanzania
Tanzania is an African country of many riches. Between July and October, you can witness the iconic river crossings of the Great Migration. On the Swahili Coast, there are spectacular islands to discover. Tanzania is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa.
With most travelers eyeing more classically popular African destinations like the Maasai Mara in Kenya, Travel Designer Tessa van der Winsor suggests you head off to Tanzania in 2022. The Serengeti National Park hosts one of the greatest wildlife shows on earth. The Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest sweeping through the Maasai Mara in Kenya, making their way into Tanzania.
Park yourselves at Singita Sasakwa, a stay that’s turning heads as a viable competitor to any of the other A-lister enclaves. The luxury safari lodge sits in the country’s largest private reserve, Singita Grumeti. The reserve leans into exclusivity instead of volume. That’s how it has garnered an international reputation for its roaring population of wildlife versus a small huddle of tourists.
Off the mainland, Zanzibar also deserves the spotlight in 2022. It’s a destination where you can experience a whole new kind of reset. Cerulean seas, white-sandy beaches and swaying palms define the island. A combination of healthy coral reef and crystal-clear waters make it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Get excited to stay at Mnemba Island Lodge. The luxurious oceanside retreat rewards guests with untouched island bliss. Beyond its postcard appeal, Zanzibar also houses a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town.
To get the most of Tanzania’s diverse geography, get inspired with our itinerary example. We’d begin with a week-long migration experience in the Serengeti before drifting away to the idyllic island of Zanzibar.
10. France
In Western Europe, France is home to some of the continent’s most iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Palace of Versailles. It is also a destination with incredible food offerings. The country has some splendid wine regions too like Bordeaux, Champagne and Burgundy.
Being one of the most seductive cities in the world, Paris serves some of the best treats in terms of hotel and restaurant repertoires. Base yourself at the opulent Four Seasons George V for a taste of the French art-de-vivre. This is the first hotel in Europe to offer five Michelin stars across three restaurants.
The word ‘cuisine’ also happens to be of French origin. Paris is a gastronomical mecca, dotted with Michelin-starred eateries. Don’t miss its classical brasseries serving irresistible steak and frites, before making your way to the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysée, chocolate éclair in hand.
Over the years, Southern France also claimed a reputation for its laid back, douce vie sensibility. Travel Designer Kate Herz insists that the region has something for everyone. The destination is especially popular among surf enthusiasts and sunbath lovers on a quest for the best stretch of sandy beaches.
11. Argentina
Argentina is a country bursting with natural beauty. It is a nation of spectacular landscapes, rich wildlife and otherworldly terrains. Argentina is also known for its outstanding steaks and Malbec wine. Mendoza is where you can visit vineyards. The country offers a multitude of hiking trails too.
If there’s anything this pandemic has brought, it’s the desire to travel somewhere remote and isolated. Somewhere incredibly surreal. For our travel designers, this ‘somewhere’ is Patagonia. The region is shared by Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina and Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile. It covers about one and a half times the size of the UK. Jagged mountaintop glaciers define the area. Between July and September, whales can be seen calving while penguins come to breed from September to March.
Still in the region, at the heart of Argentina’s Lake District, there is Bariloche. Bordering the Nahuel Huapi Lake, it’s a place often mistakenly taken for Switzerland, largely due to its log chalets and alpine-style architecture.
To make the most of this continent, Travel Designer Lily Bunker suggests combining your trip to Argentina with a discovery of Chile, home to Tierra Patagonia, a hotel that’s designed to make you feel at one with nature.
Argentina is also a destination to stoke your oenophilia. Mendoza is a region that’s draped with vineyards, guarded by the craggy snow-capped peaks of the majestic Andes mountains. Here, you can enjoy a range of exquisite wines, explore the land by bike or on horseback, dine at world-class restaurants and stay at The Vines Resort & Spa. The hotel doubles as a culinary destination and hosts a restaurant designed by the internationally renowned chef, Francis Mallmann. There is also a winery on the estate for tastings.
But this country wouldn’t be complete without its vibrant capital city, Buenos Aires. The South American city burns bright with tango saloons, stylish bars and creative boutiques. Add to this an extensive collection of amazing Argentine steakhouses serving world-famous prime beef.
12. Cambodia
In South East Asia, Cambodia is a destination worthy of anyone’s bucket list. Its highlights consist of dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, delicious cuisine as well as a collection of unique hotel experiences. Cambodia is a year-round destination with scenes that are both culturally-enriching and relaxing.
Our travel designers recommend starting off in Siem Reap, best known for its local resident: Angkor Wat. Magical Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s answer to Peru’s Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where you get to immerse yourself in the mighty Khmer empire. As you explore fabled temples, get lost in stories of past kingdoms. Siem Reap is also a place that is rising as a sanctuary for relaxation. Luxury hotels like Amansara set the pace for ultimate unwinding.
There’s island ecstasy here too, with the incredible Song Saa Private Island Resort nearby. The private luxury island resort which is made of pool villas only, is accessible by a 45-minute speedboat journey from the mainland. When on this side of the world, proximity to other destinations also means you could combine your trip to Cambodia with a visit to Vietnam. Board the Aqua Mekong Cruise in Ho Chi Minh, enjoy a few days of cultural in-depth touring while at sea and finish off in Angkor Wat.
13. Turkey
Of the many reasons why Turkey is one of the best places to visit is its varied geography. The country lies on two continents, namely Europe and Asia. Turkey is known for its long list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is also blessed with numerous natural wonders.
Some of Turkey’s most beautiful vistas can be found in Cappadocia, a place that’s eerily similar to Mars, but better. Here, magical sceneries made of otherworldly ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations and wavy valleys make you feel like you’re on another planet. Don’t miss the town of Göreme where you’ll find the open-air museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a spread of monasteries, chapels and churches, linked by cobbled paths hailing back to the Byzantine period. But the biggest draw is Göreme’s cotton candy skies dotted with hot air balloons. As the sun sets, be ready to be left with your mouth agape.
Contrary to popular belief, the transcontinental city of Istanbul isn’t Turkey’s capital, Ankara is. That said, it deserves all the attention it receives. At the city’s Grand Bazaar, the air is laced with the sweet aroma of baklava and other Turkish delights. Istanbul has also preserved the deeply rooted bathhouse culture of the Roman Empire. Today, you can still find hammams around the country. One of the oldests being Istanbul’s Cagaloglu Hamami, built in 1741.
Out of town, the coastal destination of Bodrum further fortifies the country’s beguiling appeal with laid-back coastal villages, inviting beaches and exclusive resorts. The recently-revealed LUX* Bodrum Resort & Residences is one that gets us particularly excited. Add to this, the exclusive set of luxury villas at Mandarin Oriental. This sensational resort also hosts a three-storey spa and wellness centre.
14. Bhutan
Bhutan is one of the most remote corners of the world. It is also a country of culture and history with multiple dzong fortresses. Misty mountains and world-class hiking trails make Bhutan one of the best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
For Jacada’s founder Alex Malcolm, Bhutan is a country like no other. A place where you’ll feel like you’ve been completely cut off from the real world. This remote destination located in South Asia is deeply buried in its Buddhist culture, guarded by snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Its collection of majestic fortresses and monasteries transport you to scenes straight-out-a-movie.
Of its many treasures, there’s the incredible Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. The architectural masterpiece clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face above the valley. Bhutan’s mystery and magic can also be found in Punakha. The region features high-altitude trekking trails, it is filled with history and culture. This is also where you’ll get to visit Punakha Dzong, the grand temple. Other than that, days in Punakha consist of river rafting, cycling and simply taking in views of the rice paddy fields and distant Himalayas. Tap into this ancient kingdom by waking up at one of Aman’s five lodges spread across its central and western valleys.
Bhutan also adheres to a strong policy of ‘High Value, Low Impact’. The country manages tourism and tourism development based on the quality of visitation. The policy ensures selected visitors have access to unparalleled experiences, untouched trekking trails and stunning flora and fauna while the country’s culture and values remain intact. That’s how Bhutan has earned its title as ‘the last Shangri La’.
15. Greece
Greece is the home of one of Europe’s most influential civilizations. It shares both the Aegean and Ionian seas. The country is dotted with islands, which include the iconic Santorini and Mykonos. It is best known for its white-washed villages and luxury villas.
Greece is also one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for couples on a honeymoon. Not long ago, if you mentioned you were travelling to Greece, everyone just assumed you were talking about Santorini. But at Jacada, we favour places others barely talk about. After all, Greece is made up of a collection of 227 inhabited islands, and according to our travel designers, some are better than others.
There is the island of Crete, birthplace of Zeus. It’s historical charm is like no other. You can explore the medieval town of Rethymno to get a taste of it. But don’t spend all of your time in town, Crete is sprinkled with some of the best beaches in the whole of Europe. Among some of its choicest stays, there is the remarkable Blue Palace, a grand beach resort with front-row views of the bay.
Other than beaches and goddesses, Greece is also synonymous with food. If you’re just like us, you sure know that there’s no better way to experience a country than through its cuisine. With the expertise of our travel designers, we can help you plan your next foodie adventure to Greece. With so much to see in Greece, make sure to spend some time in Athens to view the mighty Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
16. Ireland
Ireland is world-renowned for its festive culture. It is one of the best places to visit for celebrations and festivals. The country hosts a series of music events every year. Ireland is also rich in history. Its coastlines offer some of the most dramatic sceneries.
The country’s gift to itself is Killarney, Ireland’s oldest national park. It is home to bountiful herds of majestic red deer and the country’s largest native forest. There are magnificent waterfalls to explore and dramatic views are in abundance. Melania Siriu, Travel Designer at Jacada recommends venturing further. You can catch a boat across Lough Leane to the quiet Innisfallen Island, home to a small 12th-century church of red sandstone. When it comes to staying the night, book a room at the splendid Sheen Falls Lodge, fellow member of Relais & Chateaux extensive collection.
In 2022, you’ll also want to head to Ireland’s capital city, Dublin. Go for its plethora of restaurants, historic treasures and lively music scene. Dublin also hosts the Guinness Storehouse. Once you’re well hydrated, the city of Cork awaits with a copious amount of food offerings spread across local farmers’ markets and Michelin-starred restaurants.
No list of the best places to visit is complete without a mention of Galway and the West Coast. Spectacular scenery, expansive vistas and dramatic landscapes make the region a haven for lovers for the great outdoors. Hiking paths are aplenty and the multitude of soaring cliffs make for the best vantage points. From the West Coast, you can enjoy one of the world’s most scenic drives, passing through secluded bays and charming villages. Make sure to stop by Galway for some of the country’s best oysters.
