The 10 most desirable long-haul regions: Wanderlust Travel Awards 2021

From dazzling white landscapes to tropical islands full of wildlife, these are the far-flung regions of the world our readers are dreaming of

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1. British Columbia

This Western Canadian Province is a wildlife-enthusiast’s paradise. So, we’re not surprised our nature-loving readers put British Columbia in top spot. With more than 25,000 miles of picture-perfect coastline and an abundance of magnificent mountains and forests, this area calls out to adventure-seekers with hiking and biking trails, surrounded by the most impressive scenery. It's also famously the home of grizzly bears, black bears, and the elusive sprit bears

The beautiful views of British Columbia, Canada (Shutterstock)

The beautiful views of British Columbia, Canada (Shutterstock)

Galapagos sea lions on the beach (Shutterstock)

Galapagos sea lions on the beach (Shutterstock)

2. Galapagos Islands

Another nature-filled destination taking second place is the Galapagos Islands. Around 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador are these 19 volcanic islands. The big attraction for travellers are the endemic species which live on the archipelago, including Galapagos penguins, Galapagos sea lions and of course the famous giant tortoise. This region really does host the ultimate wildlife experience.

3. Deep South USA

Made up from Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina, these Southern states offer a taste of authentic America. Take the ultimate road trip and discover fantastic food, wonderful music, and learn all about Deep South's fascinating and eye-opening history when visiting its buzzing cities and smaller towns. For those looking to explore the wild outdoors, head to Great Smoky Mountain National Park or Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana  (Shutterstock)

Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana (Shutterstock)

Driving through Western Australia (Shutterstock)

Driving through Western Australia (Shutterstock)

4. Western Australia

As the largest state in the country, Western Australia is incredibly diverse. Here you’ll find superb vineyards and world-class wine, fascinating natural history and aboriginal sites, as well as the sunny, surfing capital of Perth. This landscape will keep you coming back for more.

5. The Caribbean

Little introduction is needed for these wonderful islands, rich with the world’s most outstanding beaches, incredible heritage, and iconic cultures. From wandering the colourful streets of Old Havana in Cuba and island hopping in St Vincent and the Grenadines, to exploring Jamaica’s coffee country in the Blue Mountains, the difficulty is picking which island to go.

St Lucia is just one of the picturesque Caribbean islands (Shutterstock)

St Lucia is just one of the picturesque Caribbean islands (Shutterstock)

The old Silk Road trading route (Shutterstock)

The old Silk Road trading route (Shutterstock)

6. The Silk Road

Although its name is singular, the Silk Road is actually a network of trails connecting China, the Middle East and Asia. It was once one of the most important trading routes on Earth, but now it's for travellers to discover 4,000 miles of diverse cultures and history, from ruined cities and Islamic architecture, to some of Asia’s most remarkable natural landscapes.

7. Antarctica 

It may be the coldest place on Earth, but Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience our readers are dreaming of. With bright white, ice-covered landscapes like no other in the world, it is the last great untouched wilderness. Here you'll find emperor penguins and many species of whale, including the minke and humpback. If you’re looking for remoteness, this is the best you will find.

Emperor penguins in Antarctica (Shutterstock)

Emperor penguins in Antarctica (Shutterstock)

Tea plantations and Muthirappuzhayar River in hills near Munnar, Kerala, India (Shutterstock)

Tea plantations and Muthirappuzhayar River in hills near Munnar, Kerala, India (Shutterstock)

8. Kerala 

With 600km of Arabian Sea shoreline, Kerala on India’s Malabar coast has a lot on offer. Palm-filled beaches, networks of lagoons and lakes and luscious green hills are just some of the varied landscapes in tropical India. There are wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, home to animals including elephants, tigers and bison, and also wonderful bird life. Of course, the Keralan cuisine with its fresh seafood, spices and tropical flavours is not to be missed.

Patagonia

Patagonia is for intrepid explorers seeking spectacular scenery. The ice-capped mountains and vast glaciers lining the borders of Chile and Argentina are enough to take even the most worldliest traveller's breath away. Match this with some rewarding yet challenging hiking trails and you’ve got the best outdoor playground any adventurer could ask for.

Spectacular scenery in Patagonia (Shutterstock)

Spectacular scenery in Patagonia (Shutterstock)

Explore Malaysian Borneo (Shutterstock)

Explore Malaysian Borneo (Shutterstock)

Malaysian Borneo

Squeezing its way into the top ten is Malaysian Borneo. The world’s third largest island has two states which belong to Malaysia - Sabah and Sarawek - which lie to the north. This is another destination ideal for active travellers who can trek through luscious rainforest in search for indigenous wildlife, including the Bornean orangutan, Sumatran rhino and Bornean pygmy elephant, just to name a few.

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