We’re just going to say it: Travel is back to pre-Covid numbers. And travelers like yourself are to thank! Airlines, developers, and event planners are feeling the rush, evident in the abundance of new routes, hotels, and celebrations that are popping up the world over.
From Greenland to Fiji, remote areas of the globe are becoming more accessible. Hotels are sprouting up with world-class amenities—think bungalows with individual plunge pools and wellness lodges centered around traditional Japanese folklore. And natural wonders (looking at you, Great American Solar Eclipse of 2024) and human-made celebrations, like the first-ever LGBTQ+ multi-sport event, beckon visitors near and far looking for a reason to revel.
One thing is certain: 2024 is bound to be a big year for travel.
Here, in no particular order, are the top 24 places you should visit in the coming year.
United States
Las Vegas, Nevada
You may think you’ve already made the most of Sin City, but the place is always evolving. Las Vegas is hosting Super Bowl LVIII in February and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in November—plus don’t you want to see what all the fuss over The Sphere (opened in October 2023) is about? While in town, stay in the newly renovated Paris Las Vegas or Bellagio, and catch big stars like Adele, Shania Twain, and U2 during their residencies.
Other new things coming to the city include Zaytinya (a highly anticipated Mediterranean restaurant from Michelin-starred José Andrés set to open its doors sometime in 2024) and the seven-acre Atomic Golf Range, complete with four different bars and a putting zone that’s slated to open by 2024.
Improved transportation, like additional stops on the Las Vegas Loop, means it’s easier to get around the Strip and beyond. Flying into the Las Vegas airport (LAS) is also getting easier and more affordable in 2024, with expanded Delta service, flights on Breeze from Mississippi, and Southwest’s new routes to Vegas from Cleveland, Detroit, and Raleigh.
Getting there
Flights to Las Vegas arrive at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). The average cost of cheap flights to Las Vegas in economy class found by Going is $165 roundtrip.
New Mexico
Low-cost carrier Sun Country Airlines has announced it’s adding a route to Albuquerque (ABQ), and Southwest is bringing back its seasonal routes from both Orlando and San Antonio, making the Land of Enchantment even more accessible in 2024. The state’s variety of mountain, plain, and desert landscapes is always a reason to visit, but this year New Mexico has a little extra going on, including new ways to honor its Indigenous community.
Highlights include the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center’s Rainwater Wellness spa built around Native healing practices in Albuquerque. The first cafe opened within the electricity-free Taos Pueblo Native American community; to serve up juices and coffee, Dawn Butterfly has to run on battery power. While you’re in-state, visit the New Mexico Museum of Art Vladem Contemporary, which opened in September 2023, or head to Sante Fe in May for the first-ever Indigenous Fashion Week, which will showcase the work of Indigenous designers from around the country.
Getting there
It’s usually cheapest to fly into Albuquerque (ABQ), although you may be able to find some good deals into Santa Fe (SAF) as well. The average cost of cheap flights to Albuquerque in economy class found by Going is $228 roundtrip; the average cost of cheap flights to Santa Fe is $170 roundtrip.
Niagara Falls, New York & Ontario
Mark your calendar: There’s a solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. In order to see it, you’ll need to be along the “path of totality.” Niagara Falls just so happens to be on that path (in addition to Dallas, Little Rock, and other towns throughout the US, Mexico, and Canada). But with eclipse packages on offer—including those by the recently renovated Sheraton Niagara Falls or Explore Niagara—and other tourism developments slated for 2024, the National Historic Landmark is sure to deliver during those four spell-binding minutes in the spring.
Beyond the eclipse and classic Niagara Falls experiences, the area offers plenty of other opportunities. You could go Niagara River island-hopping in warm weather, visit Upstate New York wine country, or take a quick jaunt across the border to explore Toronto and natural wonders, like the limestone cliffs of Bruce Peninsula National Park. Check out the Niagara Falls Heritage Gateways Project observation deck (set to be completed in 2024) and the living museum in the Aquarium of Niagara, dubbed the Great Lakes 360, slated to open in the spring.
Getting there
One of the easiest ways to reach Niagara Falls is by flying into Buffalo (BUF) and renting a car for the 45-minute drive. The average cost of cheap flights to Buffalo in economy class found by Going is $186 roundtrip. You can also use our Greek Islands Trick to reach Toronto or a major New York City airport and find your way by bus, train, or rental car to Niagara.
Macon, Georgia
Macon, Georgia, known as The Birthplace of Southern Rock (think Allman Brothers, Little Richard, and Otis Redding), celebrated its bicentennial in 2023 and is looking at a revival going into its 201st year. You can expect new art galleries, entertainment venues, restaurants, and shops of all kinds, though the biggest opening is surely the 10,000-seat Otis Redding Center for the Arts coming in late 2024.
One of the best times of the year to head to Macon is early May for the Cherry Blossom Festival, an event that rivals the one in Washington, DC. Macon is also set to open the US’s 64th and latest national park, Ocmulgee Mounds, which pays homage to over 12,000 years of human habitation in the area.
It’s no secret that Delta faces little competition in Atlanta (ATL), the airport that you’d be flying into to go to Macon; the lack of competition, unfortunately, tends to drive up fares. Even so, there will be plenty of flights available, including a new Alaska Airlines route from San Diego starting in May of 2024.
Getting there
Flights to Atlanta arrive at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). The average cost of cheap flights to Atlanta in economy class found by Going is $158 roundtrip.
Lexington, Kentucky
A number of cultural initiatives in Lexington, Kentucky, are breathing new life into the area. Black Soil continues its agritourism work in 2024 through the annual Homesteader Farm Tour Series, which sets up community events, like farm-to-table meals and tours, at Black-owned farms. New restaurants are opening their doors in town as well, including Sri Lankan street food Tuk Tuk Snack Shop from James Beard–nominated chef Samantha Fore, which started welcoming guests in September 2023.
The Bites of the Bluegrass food tours and African American Heritage Walking Tours, which tell the story of Black jockeys and the Black Freedom Struggle while highlighting the accomplishments of Black Lexingtonians, are standouts if you want to dig deeper into local history and culture.
The Town Branch Commons project is also in the works, which is turning an abandoned stretch of land by the Kentucky River into a greenway full of biking and walking trails; by 2025, it will connect the Distillery District to Downtown Lexington, but you can still use finished sections of the trail in 2024.
Starting in January 2024, you can take advantage of the return of Southwest service from Fort Myers (RSW) to Louisville (SDF) or the new American Airlines route from Miami (MIA) to Lexington (LEX).
Getting there
Although you can occasionally find a good deal flying directly to Lexington (LEX), you’ll often find cheaper fares to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG) or Louisville (SDF). The average cost of cheap flights to Lexington in economy class found by Going is $213 roundtrip. The average cost of cheap flights to CVG is $202 roundtrip, while cheap flights to SDF run $173 roundtrip.
Canada & the Arctic
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island—which also happens to be in the solar eclipse path of totality—is known for its distinctive white and red sandy beaches, fields of lupins, and fresh seafood. In 2024, PEI is celebrating the Anne of Green Gables author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 150th birthday by bringing back a musical based on the iconic book series at the Sobey Family Theatre in Charlottetown.
Another reason to visit in 2024: to check out the Island Walk, a 435-mile path that loops around the island. The path has been open since 2022, but it now offers better infrastructure for walkers and cyclists, including new accommodations, food and beverage options, and points of interest. Expanded transportation services in 2024 will also make the trail more accessible.
Getting there
To get to Prince Edward Island, you’ll have to fly into Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), or Ottawa (YOW), then take a domestic flight to the capital, Charlottetown (YYG). The average cost of cheap flights to Charlottetown in economy class found by Going is $349 roundtrip. Air Canada offers the most routes to Charlottetown, and Porter Airlines also flies there from Ottawa. When coming from farther afield, you could also consider flying into New Brunswick (YFC) and renting a car to drive over the Confederation Bridge.
Greenland
Greenland might seem pretty far off the grid, but it’s about to be way easier to visit thanks to a longer runway and new terminal at the Nuuk airport (GOH). Air Greenland has resumed service between the capital city Nuuk and Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada, with the two-hour flight taking off every Wednesday from June 26 to October 23, 2024. Minor international airport Ilulissat (JAV) is also getting an update, with a relocation and renovation to help it accommodate more and bigger planes.
If seeing the Northern Lights is high on your list, you won’t want to put off a trip to Greenland, as forecasts predict that solar activity will be higher than normal in 2024, meaning you’re more likely than ever to catch the aurora borealis in action. While you’re there, check out the Ilulissat Fjord, go whale-watching, or soak in one of Greenland’s many hot springs.
Getting there
The main point of entry for international travelers to Greenland will be the Nuuk airport (GOH). Going does not currently have any data on the average cost of flights to Greenland, but that may change in the coming months, given recent airport developments. Currently, you can connect to Greenland through Iceland or Copenhagen.
Mexico, the Caribbean, & South America
Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is looking pretty enticing right about now, thanks in part to the new Tulum airport (TQO), which is planning to receive flights from all three US legacy carriers (American, Delta, United), as well as Spirit. There are also increased operations to Cancún (CUN) through Delta and Spirit, as well as a new route between Mérida and Atlanta through Aeromexico.
The peninsula offers something for nearly every traveler, with picture-perfect beaches, caves, colorful towns, and the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Chichén Itzá to give you a sense of the area's rich history.
The Tren Maya Railway will begin operating in December 2023—despite great controversy— connecting major destinations like Tulum, Cancún, and Mérida for more convenient travel around the peninsula.
Getting there
Cancún International Airport (CUN) is often the cheapest in the area to fly into, though you can also reach the Yucatán Peninsula by flying into Tulum and Mérida. The average cost of cheap flights to Cancún in economy class found by Going is $273 roundtrip.
Dominican Republic
Thanks to new routes to Punta Cana and Puerto Plata from airlines like Delta, American, and Southwest, East Coasters will have a new tropical paradise at their fingertips come 2024. This is good news for baseball fans from the Northeast, as the 2024 MLB World Tour makes its way to the homeland of Big Papi (David Ortiz), with the Boston Red Sox going head to head against the Tampa Rays for spring training.
There are a number of new hotel openings in the Dominican Republic in 2024 as well, including the all-inclusive Zemi Miches Curio Collection by Hilton resort in Punta Cana, offering bungalows with individual plunge pools connected to networks of winding pools that allow guests to swim throughout the property. Wellness-focused Cayo Levantado Resort in Samaná is also fresh off its opening in the summer of 2023, and Riu Palace Macao in Punta Cana recently revealed a major renovation.
Getting there
Most flights enter the Dominican Republic through Santo Domingo (SDQ), but Punta Cana (PUJ) often has great deals, too. The average cost of cheap flights to Santo Domingo in economy class found by Going is $328 roundtrip, while the average cost of cheap flights to Punta Cana is $317 roundtrip.
Bahamas
Some 3+ million tourists visit the Bahamas by cruise ship each year, but with a higher cruise tax set to kick in in 2024, it’s about to get pricier to visit the country by water. Luckily, with more flights from the West Coast to Nassau (NAS), expanded JetBlue service from LA, and new Delta routes between New York and the Bahamas, flying to the island nation is an affordable alternative.
While there, you can stay in the newly opened Goldwynn Resort and Residences, which provides luxurious accommodations on Cable Beach, not far from Nassau. In the Bahamian capital, lounge in turquoise waters, climb the Queen’s Staircase, or try your luck at the largest casino in the Caribbean. If you don’t mind the increase in cruise tax, you may want to look into Royal Caribbean’s new adult-only beach club located on a private island.
Getting there
The Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) serves as the biggest gateway to the Bahamas and the cheapest point of entry. The average cost of cheap flights to Nassau in economy class found by Going is $290 roundtrip.
Florianópolis, Brazil
The quality of life in Florianópolis—the capital city of Brazil’s southern state, Santa Catarina—has made it a hideout for digital nomads. Part of the city’s appeal is that it’s located on an island lined with miles of beaches and secret lagoons. A favorite is Lagoinha do Leste, a remote beach accessible to those up for a moderate trek.
In the city itself, you’ll find a large public market, historical center, and nightlife that peaks during the summer. Florianópolis is also a great place to celebrate Carnival in February, slightly removed from the extravagant festivities of Rio. The city is particularly welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community.
Once you’re on the South American continent, getting to Florianópolis come 2024 will be even easier, as more regional routes are set to take flight with carriers Sky, LATAM, and Flybondi.
Getting there
You can fly directly to Florianópolis–Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN), but you may have better (and cheaper) options if you fly into another major Brazil airport, such as São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro; Montevideo, Uruguay; Santiago, Chile; or Buenos Aires, Argentina. The average cost of cheap flights to Florianópolis in economy class found by Going is $546 roundtrip.
Europe
Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki’s EuroPride celebration was postponed in 2020 due to Covid, but the show will go on in 2024. The festivities will span an entire week, bookended by two weekends, culminating in an enormous parade. The host city has long been considered an LGBTQ+-friendly destination; it’s also known for its nightlife, shopping, and lively culture.
A visit to Thessaloniki is also a great way to get familiar with Greece’s up-and-coming wine country, where grapes like the bold xinomavro or assyrtiko thrive. Channel your inner Dionysus on a wine-tasting tour or a visit to the Thessaloniki Wine Show from March 31st-April 1st. Eco-conscious travelers will be happy to learn that electric buses are set to hit the streets of Thessaloniki in early 2024, and a new metro system will open around the same time, making the city easier to traverse.
Getting there
While there’s an airport right in Thessaloniki (SKG), it’s likely cheaper to fly into Athens (ATH) and take the train or rent a car, which also gives you the chance to admire the Greek countryside. The average cost of cheap flights to Thessaloniki in economy class found by Going is $503 roundtrip; the average cost of cheap flights to Athens is $517 roundtrip.
Valencia, Spain
When it comes to getting around Europe on a budget, low-cost carriers are key, and three of them (Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air) recently announced new routes to Valencia. With that—plus the possibility of a direct New York route in the near future—all signs point to eastern Spain.
Valencia, the paella capital of the world, regularly sits atop lists of the best cities for expats, offering that slow pace of life Spain is known for, along with plenty of outdoor activities, distinctive neighborhoods (like the trendy Ruzafa and medieval El Carmen), and a charming old town dotted with historical churches, markets, and plazas.
The city is also earning a reputation as a sustainable travel destination; it was elected the European Green Capital of 2024. That’s because Valencia’s many parks and gardens bring nature to an urban environment, with protected pedestrian areas and bike lanes encouraging visitors to ditch their cars while exploring.
Getting there
Flights into Valencia land at VLC. The average cost of cheap flights to Valencia in economy class found by Going is $493 roundtrip. You might be better off using our Greek Islands Trick, though, as you could get to another European gateway city, such as London or Madrid, for even cheaper and then score a deal on a regional airline for as little as €9 one way.
Normandy, France
June 6, 2024, is the 80th anniversary of D-Day—the day the Allies landed on the beaches of Normandy that ultimately led to German defeat during World War II. There are lots of ways to commemorate this turning point in history. Educational river cruises will take visitors to sites that played an important role in the invasion, for example, and a public D-Day Festival will take place from May to mid-June. One highlight of the festival will surely be the parade down Omaha Beach, featuring a number of marching bands from the US. When it comes to booking your accommodation and travel plans for the festival, the sooner, the better.
As France gears up for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, it’s a great time to visit the country, and heading to the northern coastal region of Normandy offers a different experience than a visit to the capital city. Here you can take a cheese tour and taste the area’s famous Camembert, walk the cliffs of Étretat, see the striking Abbaye du Mont St. Michel, and visit the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England.
What’s more, Delta and JetBlue are launching additional routes to Paris, so it should be easy to find a flight that gets you in the general vicinity.
Getting there
The cheapest way to visit Normandy is by flying to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Orly Airport (ORY). The average cost of cheap flights to CDG in economy class found by Going is $499 roundtrip; the average cost of cheap flights to ORY is $422 roundtrip. You could also fly to London and take the high-speed Chunnel train, which makes up for the extra travel time in money saved.
Vienna, Austria
This grand city offers both cultural and historical draws for travelers, but that’s not all to look forward to in 2024. Vienna is hosting the first-ever EuroGames, a three-day sporting event for the LGBTQ+ community in which thousands of participants from all over the globe will come together to play at least 30 different sports. The event, which takes place in July, aims to foster an inclusive space where all are welcome.
Another notable Vienna event is the opening of the luxury OMA-designed department store Lamarr, which will open at some point in 2024. Lamarr will be worth a visit not only for the shopping but also to admire the architectural marvel the shops are housed in, complete with hanging gardens, a rooftop park, art galleries, spas, and more. The remodeled Wien Museum will have also recently opened its doors in December 2023, welcoming visitors to learn about Vienna’s history and enjoy a new cafe and public terrace.
Getting there
You can fly directly to the Vienna airport (VIE) and take a train 11 miles into the city. The average cost of cheap flights to Vienna in economy class found by Going is $500 roundtrip. You can also fly to bigger airports like London (LHR) or Frankfurt (FRA) and take a low-cost carrier to Vienna.
Germany
Germany is set to host the UEFA European Championship for the first time since 1988, with games in Berlin, Cologne, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Dortmund, Leipzig, Gelsenkirchen, Stuttgart, and Düsseldorf. Even if you’re not able to score tickets, there will be live viewings in most cities around Germany, often in bars where you can join in the excitement while sipping an authentic weissbier. Soccer buffs may also want to visit Dortmund’s German Football Museum in between games.
While in Germany, head to the capital city of Berlin, where you can enjoy the funky nightlife, eat the famous Berliner döner kebab, and visit historic attractions, like ceremonies to mark the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall in November. Other highlights in the country include the impressive city center and English Gardens of Munich, the castles of Bavaria, Hamburg’s St. Pauli Fish Market (where you’ll find more than just fish), or Trier’s many UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous wine country.
Getting there
The airports in Frankfurt (FRA) and Munich (MUC) serve as the gateway to Europe for much of the US, so you’ll likely find affordable nonstop flights from major airports within North America. The average cost of cheap flights to Frankfurt in economy class found by Going is $482 roundtrip, while the average cost of cheap flights to Munich is $494 roundtrip.
Asia
Japan
Japan has made our Where To Go list several years in a row now, but we’d be remiss not to include it for 2024. One major reason is that it’s getting easier—and a ton cheaper—to visit the island nation. Zipair recently announced routes between San Francisco (SFO) and Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT) starting at just $91 and plans to launch a route from Vancouver as well; Delta is also now flying between Honolulu (HNL) and Haneda (HND).
As far as what’s in store once you touch down, there are a bunch of new luxury hotels in Tokyo, giving you lots of interesting places to stay in the megacity. That includes IHG Hotels and Resorts latest venture, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street, which will offer views over the port when it opens in late 2024, and Six Senses Kyoto, located a stone’s throw from the Gion geisha district and a number of important religious sites. Accor is also set to take over Japan in 2024, opening a total of 23 properties throughout the nation.
Getting there
Most flights to Japan arrive in Tokyo, with Narita International Airport (NRT) as the cheapest airport even though it’s 1–2 hours from the city. The average cost of cheap flights to Tokyo in economy class found by Going is $607 roundtrip.
Busan, South Korea
If you’re looking to get a taste of South Korean city life on a budget, consider Busan, which is a more affordable alternative to Seoul. Busan is known for its beaches, seafood, and calendar of events and festivals, including the 2024 World Barista Championship next year. This is the first time the event has been held on the Asian continent, and Busan is certainly a worthy host city thanks to its thriving coffee scene.
The Arte Museum Busan, originally set to open in the summer of 2023, is due to open soon, where you’ll find immersive art exhibits on the theme of “Eternal Nature.” Since Busan has also piqued the interest of the Michelin Guide, which will announce its selections in February 2024, a whole new wave of culinary tourism is sure to begin soon.
Getting there
You can fly directly to Busan’s Gimhae International Airport (PUS), though it’s usually cheaper to fly to Korea’s primary airport Incheon (ICN), named one of the top 10 airports by Skytrax. The average cost of cheap flights to PUS in economy class found by Going is $634 roundtrip; the average cost of cheap flights to ICN is $685 roundtrip.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new terminal, which opened in November 2023, will nearly triple the airport’s capacity in 2024 while providing a more streamlined experience for passengers. The opening has prompted new routes like Etihad’s service from Boston, and there are also rumors that ultra-low-cost carriers, such as Air Arabia and Wizz Air, may offer more flights to the United Arab Emirates soon as part of a plan to invest in routes between Europe and North Africa or Asia via the Middle East.
Once you arrive in Abu Dhabi, there is no shortage of things to do. You can visit grand architectural monuments, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (the largest mosque in the country), take desert tours, and check out the famous Emirati malls and theme parks. In order to boost tourism, Abu Dhabi has recently shifted its focus to re-energize local culture, launching 22 different creative campaigns, including promotion of the nearby garden oasis Al Ain.
Getting there
Flights arrive at the Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), the UAE’s second-largest after Dubai’s DXB. The average cost of cheap flights to Abu Dhabi in economy class found by Going is $657 roundtrip.
Africa
Morocco
Morocco has faced some trials in the past years, losing its promising tourism momentum during the pandemic and then dealing with the aftermath of a horrific September 2023 earthquake. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Atlas Mountains, some 44 miles from Marrakech but still caused the popular city significant damage. Despite the hardship, Morocco is hoping to stage a comeback in 2024.
Major tourist sites—like the 19th-century Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Badi Palace—have already reopened following the earthquake, and new hotels have launched. Habitas Caravan Dakhla is slated to open in 2023, new riads are on the way in September 2024 at the Atlas Mountain resort Kasbah Tamadot, and we have our fingers crossed that the much-anticipated Park Hyatt Marrakech, originally scheduled to open in late 2022, will open in 2024. The country is also slowly preparing for the 2030 World Cup, building and upgrading stadiums throughout the country.
Getting there
Morocco’s Casablanca airport (CMN) welcomes the most international travelers and typically offers the cheapest fares. Flights from Europe, the Middle East, and, starting in 2024, North America, also arrive at the Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). The average cost of cheap flights to Casablanca in economy class found by Going is $538 roundtrip; the average cost of cheap flights to Marrakech is $530 roundtrip.
Sierra Leone
The small West African country of Sierra Leone has a troubled history of slave trade and civil war, so it traditionally hasn’t been on most travelers’ radars. However, with the civil war effectively ending in 2002 and years of progress now behind it, Sierra Leone is ready to welcome visitors. The country opened a new airport terminal in 2023, the first since Sierra Leone’s independence in 1961, and the first fully green airport terminal in West Africa, powered by a solar farm. Since the new terminal is three times the size of the old one, it can accommodate far more air traffic in 2024.
Adventure travelers often head to Sierra Leone for the country’s marathon. At the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, you have the chance to spot elusive pygmy hippos and a number of different primates, along with over 100 species of birds.
A visit to Sierra Leone is also an opportunity to face some darker periods of history—UNESCO World Heritage site Bunce Island just north of Freetown pays homage to what used to be a slave trade hub; guided tours from Freetown lead you through an abandoned castle, living quarters, and the harrowing “Door of No Return,” where some 30,000 enslaved people were sent to the Americas.
Getting there
Flights to Sierra Leone land at Freetown Lungi International Airport (FNA).
Madagascar
Madagascar has historically lacked the infrastructure needed to support large numbers of visitors, but luckily that’s starting to change. The country has poured millions into developing roads and easing transportation for residents—and tourists are benefiting as well. It’s also now home to several new hotels, including properties from Accor and Radisson in the capital city of Antananarivo and beyond. The Accor property, which opened in 2023 on Nosy Boraha, is a member of the Mantis brand, which is known for its dedication to building hotels in harmony with the surrounding environment and focusing on wellness.
The true magic of this island nation, however, is in its nature. Many of the plants and animals you’ll find here are unique to Madagascar; for example, it’s the only place in the world where you can find lemurs in the wild. Its beaches are also top-tier; you can find ones home to wild lemurs and turtles, or those located on smaller islands of their own, optimal for seclusion. The former French colony also has plenty of cultural experiences to offer and is home to more than a dozen different ethnicities of African, Arab, and Indian origin.
Getting there
You’ll arrive in Madagascar at Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo. Unfortunately, there aren’t any direct flights from the US to Madagascar, so you’ll likely need to route through another African city, such as Johannesburg (South Africa) or Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). Both offer relatively low-cost regional flights to Madagascar. The average cost of cheap flights to Antananarivo in economy class found by Going is $805 roundtrip.
Australasia
Fiji
2024 is a big year for tourism in Fiji. As national carrier Fiji Airways has transitioned to new A350 aircrafts with 25% greater capacity in the fall of 2023, the airline is welcoming more visitors per flight from North America. Fiji-based Captain Cook Cruises launched a new luxury expedition small ship—MS Caledonian Sky—in November of 2023, which sails around the main island and beyond, including a route that follows whale migration patterns. Plus, there are a slew of new hotel openings and renovations, including the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort and Spa slated to open in early 2024.
Another exciting bit of news about the archipelago is that Fiji was recently admitted into the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and is doubling down on its efforts to foster sustainable tourism practices. The goal is to ensure the safety of both land and sea, protecting Fiji’s natural gems, including the corals that make the area known as the soft coral capital of the world.
Getting there
If you reach Fiji by air, you’ll most likely fly into Nadi (NAN), which is most affordably reached from places like Honolulu or San Francisco. The average cost of cheap flights to Nadi in economy class found by Going is $703 roundtrip.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
Kangaroo Island was devastated by bushfires from 2019–2020, but thanks to a project that fenced in vulnerable species, wildlife populations are starting to recover. The isle is the third-largest off the Australian mainland, and a significant portion of its area is dedicated to nature preserves that a variety of animals call home. Now, with flights picking up from Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide to Kangaroo Island's Kingscote airport, the island's increased accessibility should continue to propel the bushfire rebound.
The island’s luxury Southern Ocean Lodge was a significant wildfire casualty, but the New Great Southern Ocean Lodge opens in January of 2024; it will serve as a hub from which visitors can connect easily to local tour operators and seek out all the wildlife and food and beverage experiences the area has to offer. Another development is the new visitor center at Flinders Chase National Park, constructed to work in harmony with the natural environment, which in this case includes the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch rock formations, plus scrubland home to the Kangaroo Island kangaroo, a smaller and longer furred version of the mainland kind.
Getting there
You’ll arrive on Kangaroo Island at Kingscote Airport (KGC); however, you’ll likely need to connect to Kingscote on a regional flight through a major Australian city, such as Adelaide (ADL). The average cost of cheap flights to Adelaide in economy class found by Going is $678 roundtrip. You can also get to Kangaroo Island via a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis.
