With so little travel in the strangest of times, this year we made some slight adjustments to our award categories. We asked you what destinations you want to go to, once you can travel again. Here, we list your top 10 most desirable countries.
King George River Gorge, Kimberley, Australia (Shutterstock)
We’re not surprised to see Australia come in first place, with its diverse landscapes and endless adventures. And with flights being planned again before the end of the year, it won't be long until eager travellers can head back down under to explore the bustling city culture, quirky bush wildlife and paradisiacal secret beaches beyond the more popular tourist spots.
Himeji Castle with Mount Fuji (Shutterstock)
Japan is spectacular at any time of the year. From modern skyscrapers to traditional temples, this is a country of dazzling contrasts. Between March and May is the most popular time to visit with the chance to see the magnificent cherry blossom in full bloom. Hikers can explore its extraordinary natural landscape and climb Mount Fuji during the cooler seasons later in the year, while winter is the best time to avoid the crowds.
Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica (Shutterstock)
The top ecotourism destination in the world, Costa Rica is leading the way when it comes to green initiatives (no wonder our readers love it so much). Home to howling monkeys, toucans, butterflies and leatherback turtles, more than a quarter of the South American country is protected in nature reserves.
Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada (Shutterstock)
From wilderness adventures in British Colombia and cosmopolitan Vancouver in the west, to breathtaking scenery and a fine seafood scene on the Atlantic coast, there is plenty to be desired across Canada's 10 provinces and 3 territories.
New York skyline, USA (Shutterstock_
The world's third largest country reopened its borders to fully vaccinated arrivals on Monday 8 November, meaning we can start booking our trips across the pond again! Each state has its own unique character and landscape, from the glaciers of Alaska and deserts of Arizona, to the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii to skyscrapers in New York, With so much variety, where else do you need to travel?
Seoul City skyline, South Korea (Shutterstock)
South Korea has a fantastic mix of modern and traditional culture. Its capital Seoul boasts shiny new technology in its shopping districts, but turn a corner and you'll also find historic restaurants and reconstructed palaces. Away from the city, discover why it's known as the 'Land of the Morning Calm' by exploring the country's stunning natural landscape, with mountains, forests and remote islands.
Montana de Siete Colores, Peru (Shutterstock)
Peru is continuously growing in popularity, as travellers flock to see the iconic Machu Picchu, a 15th century Inca citadel located high in the Andes mountains. But beyond the Inca Trail, there is so much more to do in this South American country. Explore the vast green jungles full of wildlife, visit Cusco for the local culture, architecture and festivals, or surf the Pacific waves and discover the culinary delights in Lima.
Train on the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka (Shutterstock)
It’s hard to resist the beauty, history and culture of Sri Lanka. Boasting ancient temples, elephant-filled national parks, tea plantations, rainforests and untrodden white sand beaches, this island country is best explored by trek or train.
Kruger National Park in South Africa (Shutterstock)
The only African country to make the cut, but deservingly so. South Africa has it all. Try hiking Table Mountain, horse-riding through winelands, exploring its vibrant cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, and search for the Big 5 in their famous national parks.
Reflection of Mountains in Lake Mackenzie, New Zealand (Shutterstock)
Just squeezing into our top 10 is the furthest destination we could possibly travel to from the UK. New Zealand's rugged and beautiful landscape is calling out to us Brits. Here you can explore its 14 national parks and two islands, discover real-life Middle Earth, and experience Māori culture first-hand. This is a nation for hikers, nature lovers and adventure seekers, with a bustling capital for city slickers.
Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.