With a new year comes new adventures, new experiences and new travels. Our advice? Go off the beaten path a little bit and discover something off the radar, something you’ve never imagined seeing as these are often the best memories. So, where should you go in the new decade? Read on for our list of top travel destinations to visit in 2020.
Dubai
Dubai is often overlooked as a top travel destination for students, but it shouldn’t be! This ultramodern city is filled with shopping, nightlife and tons of things to see and do. Two more reasons why Dubai is a great city to visit: it’s a really safe city and most people speak English too. Plus, this year, it’s home to the massive World Expo, showcasing arts, culture, performances, food and more from over 190 different countries.
Things to do:
- The Dubai Mall
- Head to the top of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa for amazing views.
- Experience the World Expo
Tokyo
It’s never a bad time to visit Tokyo, but 2020 is going to be an especially perfect time to check it off your bucket list. From the cherry blossoms in the spring to the 2020 Summer Olympics in late July to amazing Japanese cultural festivals happening year-round, Tokyo has plenty to offer for everyone.
Things to do:
- See one of the Olympic events (tickets can be as little as $40-$50 USD)
- Attend a festival (the Kurama Fire Festival and Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival are two favorites)
- Visit the Sensō-ji, a historic temple or head to the Tokyo Tower for views of the city.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is always considered a top travel destination for students, so if you haven’t made it here yet, this is the year to make the trip! Summer is the best time to visit Copenhagen, with ideal weather for bike-riding around the city, picnicking in all the parks, kayaking and going to tons of summer music festivals and events.
Things to do:
- Tivoli Gardens
- Visit Nyhavn
- Tour Christiansborg Palace
Bosnia & Herzegovina
When you think of Europe, you probably don’t think of Bosnia & Herzegovina. But we’re here to tell you, you probably should. Its picture perfect scenery will make you feel like just walked into a fairytale. Not only are there rolling mountains (perfect for skiing in the winter!) and medieval castles, but also gorgeous waterfalls and historical sites. If you’re doing it for the gram, Mostar is a must!
Things to do:
- Old Bridge
- Kravice Waterfall
- Una National Park
Kauai
Ahh palm trees, sunshine and turquoise waters. Kauai has all of that and more – without the crazy amount of tourists like the other islands. While it’s known to be a little bit more remote and quiet, it offers so much for adventurers like hiking, kayaking, surfing, waterfalls, snorkeling and more. When you’re tuckered out from all the exploring, you’ve got some of the most beautiful, tranquil beaches in the world to relax on. Sounds pretty ideal to us.
Things to do:
- Kayak down Wailua State Park
- Waimea Canyon
- Napali Coast
Costa Rica
With beaches, rainforests and volcanoes all in one, Costa Rica is one of the most exciting and diverse destinations to visit in 2020. For adrenaline junkies, zip lining in Monteverde is a MUST. If heights aren’t your thing, white water rafting is another great option. If you’re not feeling so crazy, go for a waterfall tour or wildlife tour. Big chocolate and/or coffee fan? Costa Rica is the perfect place to try both.
Things to do:
- Zip lining in Monteverde
- La Tortuga Island
- Arenal Volcano and hot springs tour
Tel Aviv
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything – nightlife, culture and history – you will never be bored in this city. Feeling adventurous? Take a bike ride through Tel Aviv’s version of Central Park known as Park HaYarkon or ride to one of the world’s oldest ports, Old Jaffa where you can get a taste of Israel’s history. Looking to relax? Take a nap on Gordon Beach or go for a beach stroll on the famous Tel Aviv Promenade. When you’re ready for a little bit of food and drink, hit some of the city’s renowned restaurants, bars and clubs for a guaranteed good time.
Things to do:
- Walk/bike around Old Jaffa
- Ge some bargains at Carmel Market
- Explore the picturesque neighborhood of Neve Tzedek
Perth
With pristine beaches and untouched reefs, Perth is an up-and-coming top travel destination in Australia for good reason. Another perk of going to Perth? No crowds! So, if you’re looking for beautiful beaches and some peace and quiet, this is your spot. Cycle along the coast, go surfing, try scuba diving, visit a “small bar” and just enjoy the slow pace of life here.
Things to do:
- Take a Swan River cruise
- Admire the skyline from King’s Park
- Caversham Wildlife Park
Boston
Quaint and small, but definitely not lacking in heart, Boston is one of the best US cities to visit (imho) and a top travel destination in 2020. The city is easily walkable and has plenty to do no matter what season you visit. In the summer months, visitors can go kayaking or sailing on the Charles River, walk around the North End (old cobblestone streets and unreal Italian food) or take a day trip to the beautiful Cape Cod beaches. In the winter, people can go ice skating on the Frog Pond, walk around the scenic Boston Common or enjoy some yummy drinks with an unbeatable view at the Top of the Hub.
Things to do:
- Walk around Boston Public Garden, Beacon Hill and/or Quincy Market
- Tour Fenway Park
- Get some Italian food in the North End
Ready to book some flights to one of your bucket list destinations for 2020? See what deals we’ve got right now for cheap student flights.
