Your favourite destinations of 2014

These are the exotic locales that top your travel wishlist – and our advice on what to do when you get there

8 mins

1. Borneo

Adventure doesn't get more exciting than Borneo. With luscious rainforests, rare wildlife and diverse culture ­– this destination is perfect for adventure and nature lovers. No wonder it consistently tops our list of most-searched-for destinations.

More information

Our Best of Borneo guide

What our readers say about Borneo 

Book your adventure in Borneo now

Smiling Sri Lankan fisherman (Shutterstock.com)

Smiling Sri Lankan fisherman (Shutterstock)

2. Sri Lanka

Rising from tropical sandy beaches into cool highland regions, rich in temples and tea plantations shrouded in mist, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. Add in great food, friendly locals and comfortable distances and it’s easy to see why Sri Lanka rates so highly.

More information

Our Best of Sri Lanka guide

What our readers say about Sri Lanka

Book your adventure in Sri Lanka now

Reykjavik (Dreamstime)

3. Iceland

Iceland is wild – outside the buzzing, artistic capital, Reykjavík, there’s a host of natural wonders and sweeping empty landscapes that will captivate you. Add in thundering waterfalls, spouting geysers, natural thermal pools – and the chance of seeing the elusive Northern Lights – and it will be topping your list soon, too.

More information

Our Best of Iceland Guide

What our readers say about Iceland

Book your adventure in Iceland now

Bagan (Dreamstime)

4. Burma/Myanmar

Whether you chose to call it Burma or Myanmar, this south-east Asian gem is truly an extraordinary country – its people, landscapes and culture are all unique. Travellers who visit Burma are welcomed by gentle, smiling people and some of the world’s most impressive monuments. And after years of isolation, Burma is once again open for business.

More information

Our Best of Burma/Myanmar guide

What our readers say about Burma/Myanmar

Book your adventure in Burma/Myanmar now 

Turtle on beach (Dreamtime)

5. East Coast Australia

The east coast of Australia is a traveller's dream – 18,000km of surf-bashed beach, wildlife-rich rainforest, colossal coral reef and cool cities. It can take a while to get there, but once you’re there, be ready for a trip of a lifetime.

More information

Our Best of East Coast Australia guide

What our readers say about East Coast Australia

Book your adventure in East Coast Australia now 

Bodnath stupa (Shutterstock.com)

Bodnath Stupa in the sun (Shutterstock)

6. Nepal

For a relatively small country, Nepal certainly packs a punch. Medieval cities, treks that take you amongst snow-capped Himalayan mountains, and jungle wildlife adventures – there truly is something for everyone in this mountain kingdom. No wonder our readers rate it so highly.

More information

Our Best of Nepal guide

What our readers say about Nepal

Book your adventure in Nepal now

Canada Day celebrations (Shutterstock.com)

Canada Day celebrations (Shutterstock)

7. Canada

Spend any time in Canada and you'll quickly discover that there’s enough space to do pretty much whatever you like. Enjoy awesome scenery, see abundant wildlife like moose, polar and grizzly bears, humpback whales and, um, groundhogs, raccoons and beavers, experience world-class outdoor adventure, sample the sophisticated cultural scene in Canada’s cities. The hardest part of travel in Canada is deciding what to do first.

More information

Our Best of Canada guide

What our readers say about Canada

Book your adventure in Canada now

Taj Mahal (Dreamstime)

8. India

From the foothills of the Himalaya to the verdant south, India is a kaleidoscopic assault on all of your senses. Whether you stick to the Golden Triangle of Dehli, Agra and Jaipur, or venture further afield to the verdant south or north-east to the Himalayan foothills of Darjeeling, you’re in for a journey you will never forget.

More information

Our Best of India guide

What our readers say about India

Book your adventure in India now

Old man of Hoi An (Dreamstime)

9. Vietnam

Vietnam boasts stunning landscapes – the karst outcrops of Halong Bay and the hilltribe-settled mountains around Sapa spring to mind – as well as beaches, charming colonial towns, the fascinating villages of the Mekong Delta and lush national parks. Mix in amazing street food and you’ve got one magical – and tasty – destination.

More information

Our Best of Vietnam guide

What our readers say about Vietnam

Book your adventure in Vietnam now

Related Articles