Traveling the globe can be such a powerful, game-changing, and eye-opening experience.
Whether we are exploring entirely new destinations or revisiting old, memory-filled favorites, delving deep into the natural world or enjoying beautifully developed cities and sites, traveling can broaden our cultural awarenesses and appreciations.
While there are plenty of well-known tourist destination all across the globe – publicized and perpetually visited by tourists from near and far, such as fan-favorites like Paris, France or Beijing, China – our planet also houses all sorts of hidden gem locales.
We've compiled the following list of 15 fantastic, less popular, vacation destinations. Each of these spots possesses unique, awe-inducing splendor.
Keep scrolling through our gallery to learn more about these glorious vacation spots.
[H/T: CNN]
1 - Kenya
This West African jewel is a perfect destination for wildlife lovers big and small.
2 - Thailand
Often characterized by its glorious beaches, beautifully ancient ruins, and extravagantly designed royal palaces, Thailand is an absolute must-visit destination for any avid explorer.
3 - Republic of Georgia
Boasting a fantastic food scene and the origins of wine production, the Republic of Georgia absolutely has a lot of offer curious travelers.
4 - The Arctic
The Arctic's icy splendor has begun luring interested travelers for the past few years. Those particularly interested in witnessing the affects of climate change have started visiting the area.
5 - Peru
Home to Machu Picchu, this South American country offers its travelers chances to explore breathtaking ruins and sample unbelievable local cuisine.
6 - Denmark
This Scandinavian country, housing cobblestoned street cities, is the birthplace of famed fairytale author, Hans Christian Anderson.
7 - Kyushu, Japan
While many seasoned travelers head to Japan to hit up Tokyo, far fewer explore Kyushu. Filled with beautiful inns and hot springs, this southern Japanese city is a relaxing oasis.
8 - Budapest
Hungary's capital city, Budapest, was one of the most influential centers of the humanist movement during the Renaissance.
9 - Central Asia
Home to the former Silk Road, folks have started flocking to Central Asia to delve into this trade route's history.
10 - Colombia
With access to two different oceans, Colombia offers visitors all sorts of fantastic outdoor adventures.
11 - Cuba
Recently reopening to mass tourism, Cuba offers tourists a interesting look back into the past.
12 - Cambodia
Full of magnificent temples and archeological ruins, Cambodia offers visitors all sorts of culturally fascinating experiences.
13 - Yosemite
With nearly 1,200 square feet of protected national park, Yosemite is a outdoorsy traveler's dream destination.
14 - South Africa
Home to multiple different ecosystems, South Africa offers travelers access to beaches, big game-filled national parks, vineyards, and more.
15 - Sabah, Borneo
Filled with unbelievable jungle landscapes, Sabah, Borneo is the place to go to see jaguars, orangutans, and all sorts of other incredible creatures.