Dream destinations: 18 great places to travel in 2027

Whether you’re traveling solo or as part of a group, 2027 is brimming with potential for newfound adventures. Planning your next great escape? Award-winning travel writer and Flash Pack advisor Jonathan Thompson gives us his personal picks to earmark for wanderlusters the world over.

1. Yucatán, Mexico

Rich in Mayan history, awash with lush rainforest and fringed by tropical beaches, Yucatán – out on the distant tip of Mexico’s south-eastern tail – is about to have a major moment. In particular, the state’s capital, Mérida, has emerged as one of Latin America’s hottest cities, thanks to a buzzing food scene, a raft of new boutique hotels and a packed calendar of cultural events.

When to visit: December-March.

Eat this: Dulce de papaya. This deliciously sweet Yucatán dessert is made from papaya, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla – served soaked in syrup.

Do this: Visit Chichén Itzá, a jaw-dropping complex of Mayan ruins 75 miles east of Mérida.

2. Chefchaouen, Morocco

If you’ve done Marrakech but are curious to see more of Morocco, you could follow everyone else to Essaouira this year, or you could get ahead of the curve by checking out Chefchaouen. Known as the Blue City, it’s the country’s most Hispano-Moorish influenced town, resulting in unique, gob-smackingly beautiful streets, squares and alleyways that look equal parts Jodhpur and Mykonos. It’s about to become North Africa’s next big thing.

When to visit: March to May and September to October. 

Eat this: Chicken Bastilla, a traditional savory pie made with thin, folded warka dough.

Do this: Check out the Cascades d’Akchour, a series of mind-blowing waterfalls a short drive from the city, where you can take a dip in spectacular rock pools.

3. Egypt

If you’ve ever dreamed about visiting the land of the Pharaohs, now’s the time. Not only is Cairo’s long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum (which looks incredible) enjoying its moment in the sun since it finally opened in November 2025, but the country is also marking the 125th anniversary of Cairo’s historic Egyptian Museum, home to a series of lesser-known Pharoah treasures. Meanwhile, the reopening of Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes after 2,500 years is also a major sight to behold – one of many in the pharaoh’s spectacular ancient capital. Hotels-wise, the recently redesigned Immobilia, Cairo offers an immersive experience that Wallpaper compares to “staying in the home of extremely stylish friends”.

When to visit: March to May and September to October.

Eat this: Fiteer Baladi, a type of buttery Egyptian pizza.

Do this: Take a felucca trip down the Nile. The traditional wooden sailing boats are the best way to travel for a few hours – or even a few days – on the world-famous river.

4. Costa Rica

It’s no surprise that Costa Rica is a perennial favorite with Flashpackers – it’s a destination that ticks every box with a flourish, from an exhilarating food and drink scene to amazing outdoor adventures. The country recently won the title for Best Nature Destination at the inaugural Forbes Travel Awards. The prize recognized its incredible biodiversity and protected tourism areas, including Arenal Volcano National Park – one of the region’s top hiking destinations. 

When to visit: November to May.

Eat this: Spicy black bean soup known as Sopa Negra. 

Do this: Ziplining. Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in the world to swoop through the tree canopy like a superhero.

5. Slovenia

Slovenia’s regal capital, Ljubljana, was recently named Europe’s Best Creative City Destination, in a nod to the city’s ebullient art, crafts and music scene that often flies under the radar. The Eastern European country is flourishing, thanks to a clear focus on sustainability inspired by its lush, naturally alluring landscape. Begin your adventure here in Ljubljana, with its many bridges, magnificent castle and riverside restaurants, before moving on to the pretty lakeside town of Bled – known as both an underrated, and hugely welcoming, travel destination.

When to visit: April to September.

Eat this: Kremna Rezina. Heavenly layers of custard, cream and puff pastry.

Do this: Swim Lake Bled. The iconic swim from lakeshore to magical island is a rite of passage for all visitors (and, thankfully, easier than it looks).

6. Peru

The spectacular Incan citadel of Machu Picchu remains one of the world’s most sought-after sightseeing spots. If you haven’t ascended into the Andes to see this ancient wonder for yourself, then now is the time – and you’ll be hard pressed to find a better all-round trip than the awesome Flash Pack itinerary. This somehow manages to tick off all of Peru’s highlights in a little over a week, including a mouth-watering exploration of Lima’s epic restaurant offering.

When to visit: May to October.

Eat this: Ceviche. The freshest, zestiest, tastiest examples of this marinated Peruvian fish dish are to be found in Lima – the ceviche capital of the world.

Do this: Take a mountain bike ride across the Sacred Valley. The best way to access more remote sections.

7. The Azores

It might be a tiny string of volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, but the Azores – aka the “Hawaii of Europe” – is quietly becoming an unlikely design hub.  

Ponta Delgada, the capital of this neon-green volcanic archipelago, is at the heart of a budding design hotel movement – producing stunning properties like Octant Ponta Delgada and Pico do Refugio. Meanwhile, the islands as a whole – which will become way more accessible in 2027 with new direct flights from New Jersey, Toronto and Vienna – continue to feel like the love child of Hawaii and New Zealand, with cascading waterfalls, emerald cliffs, world-class surfing and a blossoming wine scene.

When to visit: April to September.

Eat this: Cozido das Furnas. A traditional chicken, sausage and pork stew cooked in volcanic soil.

Do this: Whale-watching. The Azores is one of the best places in the world to spot sperm, fin, and minke whales up close.

8. Uzbekistan

In 2026, Uzbekistan marked its 35th anniversary of independence from the Soviet Union with a slew of new projects to make it more accessible than ever. This fascinating country has celebrated a record influx of visitors this year, as it looks to double its number of four- and five-star hotels, along with launching new ecotourism initiatives such as a green tea plantation in the rolling hills of the Andijan region. The country is also enjoying a new high-speed rail service between the capital Tashkent and the ancient Silk Road town of Khiva, a route that halves the journey time to the UNESCO World Heritage site.

When to visit: April to May and September to November.

Eat this: Manty, which are juicy dumplings stuffed with minced meat, fat and onions. 

Do this: Visit the Golden Ring; the ruins of 50 ancient fortresses recovered from the sands in the ancient oasis of Khwarezm.  

9. Finland

Definitely the most underrated of Nordic countries, and arguably the most beautiful, Finland is regularly ranked as one of the world’s happiest places. It’s also the location for one of Flash Pack’s most innovative trips. This adventure-packed five-day Lapland odyssey involves chasing the Northern Lights on husky sleds, visiting an Aurora camp and trying your arm at snowmobiling – as well as meeting local Sami reindeer herders. You’ll experience all of this while staying at boutique riverside retreat, Wilderness Hotel Juutua, with fine dining and a sauna (natch) on-site.

When to visit: December to March.

Eat this: Karjalanpiirakka, which are sweet Finnish rice pies.

Do this: Take a husky sled ride. Racing across the icy tundra behind a pack of well-trained dogs imparts a sense of wild freedom like no other.

10. Rwanda

There are few better places to recharge and re-center than in the middle of Africa, and Rwanda, in particular, is about to have a major moment. Gorilla trekking during the dry summer months remains the biggest draw here – and now there are a handful of new hotels offering enticing packages to solo travelers, too. The Pinnacle Kigali and Bisate Wilderness Lodge are both crazy beautiful places to stay, bookending the Rwanda experience with two opposing scenes, from high-octane city glamor to remote mountain beauty (with wellness wrapped in). 

When to visit: May to October.

Eat this: Brochettes. The Rwandan version of a kebab skewer, with sizzling chunks of beef, chicken and goat dunked in a spicy tomato mix, then grilled over open flames until they’re almost black.

Do this: Kayak Lake Kivu. There are two brilliant towns situated on Lake Kivu – Gisenyi and Kibuye – which make for ideal bases as you explore this gorgeous body of water. 

11. Jordan

Fast becoming the most popular travel destination in the Middle East, Jordan will be instantly familiar to science fiction fans – with Hollywood blockbusters Dune, The Martian and Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker all being filmed in the spectacular Wadi Rum area. The real headline act, however, remains the old Nabatean capital of Petra (and the best way to access it is by hiking the secret back door route into the ancient sandstone city with Flash Pack). Don’t sleep on the modern-day capital of Amman, either: a dynamic 21st Century metropolis which is well worth visiting en-route to Petra and Wadi Rum, particularly if you book a lesson at the stereotype-squashing Beit Sitti cooking school.   

When to visit: March to May and September to November.

Eat this: Mansaf, a dish of tender meat layered with paper-thin flatbread, served on heaps of steaming, aromatic rice.

Do this: Floating on the Dead Sea. This surreal, serene experience is something that everyone must try once in their life.

12. Charleston, USA

One of the oldest cities in the US, Charleston has made a bold bid to confront the darker parts of its past, with the International African American Museum – including a new exhibit on Ralph Henry Johnson, a Charleston native who made the ultimate sacrifice to save his fellow Marines during the Vietnam war. The museum also examines Charleston’s role housing one of the largest slave ports in the New World, as well as highlighting and celebrating contemporary Black culture. Meanwhile, cosmopolitan, modern-day Charleston goes from strength to strength as an awesome city break destination, with its historic district boasting plenty of new places to stay, dine, and further explore the city’s origins. This includes luxury waterfront hotel The Cooper, the first establishment to stand along the city’s harbour, design-led Italian eatery, Riva Mare, and neighborhood cocktails joint, Dive In, on Charleston’s Upper Peninsula.

When to visit: March to May, and September to November.

Eat this: BBQ. Whichever way you slice it, BBQ is king in the Carolinas, and Charleston has some superb spots to try it.

Do this: Learn to Shag. The traditional Southern dance is still practised here – and you can take shagging lessons with charismatic local instructor Linda Walker.

13. São Paulo, Brazil

More sleek, sophisticated and style-forward than Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s São Paulo is the biggest city in South America, and a major arts and culture hub. New flights connecting the city with landmark destinations like Cape Town and Brussels in 2026 means this Brazilian beauty is more accessible than ever. In particular, check out the new W São Paulo, located in the heart of Vila Olímpia, with tropical elegance and sweeping city views at every turn.

When to visit: September to March.

Eat this: Irado à Paulista. This traditional dish is made with rice, sautéed kale, fried plantains and pork chops.

Do this: Visit the Mercadão. São Paulo’s Municipal Market is full of life, colors and flavors. 

14. Oslo, Norway

Things are hotting up in Norway, where 2027 will see the opening of a unique whale-shaped museum that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the wonderful world of these giant marine creatures. Meanwhile, art and culture-lovers will be spoilt for choice in Oslo, with everything from the award-winning MUNCH museum, a part of the capital’s flagship waterfront regeneration project, to FLOP museum, an exhibition space highlighting “failed products and bad ideas”. Book a room at new design-led hotspot Hobo Hotel Oslo and steal yourself away to explore this spirited Scandinavian city for the weekend. 

When to visit: April to September.

Eat this: Herring. Norwegians love their herring, and will serve it in hundreds of tasty ways, from the classic pickled version in vinegar to more elaborated creamed or curried variants. The best spot to sample them is the famous Engebret Café – the oldest restaurant in Oslo.    

Do this: Explore the Viking Ship Museum. The city’s best-known museum contains some incredible finds, including three of the world’s best preserved Viking ships.

15. Easter Island, Chile

2027 marks 305 years since Dutch explorers first set foot on Rapa Nui’s mysterious shores on Easter Day – which is how the 64-square-mile volcanic landmass acquired its name. There is plenty to check out on Chile’s UNESCO-listed island, from its 900 monolithic moai stone statues to increased access to its remote north shore – and the flagship Nayara Hangaroa luxury hotel allows guests to take self-drive ATV tours to iconic attractions like the massive Ranu Kau crater, the Orongo ceremonial village, and Anakena beach at their own leisure.

When to visit: April to June, and October to December.

Eat this: Curanto. Meat, chicken, vegetables and seafood cooked atop hot stones placed in a hole in the ground, then covered with plantain leaves.

Do this: Watch the Sunrise at Ahu Tongariki. Dawn is particularly spectacular at this spot, as the sun rises perfectly over 15 of the best restored moais on the entire island.

16. Banff Lake Louise, Canada

Reliable snowfall and uncrowded pistes have always been a major draw for Banff Lake Louise, making the mountain hub – located inside protected, pristine Banff National Park – a top destination for frustrated skiers and snowboarders worldwide. Not only is the snow falling softer and deeper up here than anywhere else, but there’s also a network of new connections and routes across the ridge to explore for winter 2026/27. Plus the fact that Banff boasts one of the longest ski seasons in the world, thanks to its altitude and latitude, and that the spectacular Rimrock Banff, Emblems Collection has just reopened following a $115 million renovation, headlined by a signature bathhouse with mountain-facing infinity pool and salt sauna. So, if you’re hungry for powder between October and May, look no further than Canada’s remarkably snowy north.

When to visit: October to May.

Eat this: Fondue at the Grizzly House. A local icon, the Grizzly House has been serving ‘exotic’ fondue on Banff Avenue (think venison, alligator and rattlesnake) for over 50 years. It also has phones at each table, so you can call your fellow diners to enquire where they purchased their salopettes.

Do this: Caving. Just because Banff Lake Louise has world class skiing on its mountains doesn’t mean you shouldn’t delve beneath them too. The resort is also home to Rat’s Nest Cave – one of the longest caves in North America, which you can delve into with local specialists Canmore Cave tours. 

17. Honduras

Tropical Honduras, formerly a divers’ and birdwatchers’ paradise, has emerged as a major eco-tourism hotspot. In recent years, the Cayos Cochinos Foundation has opened its doors to anyone who wants to volunteer in community activities such as reef clean-ups, monitoring baby turtles, or mangrove restoration. While you’re here, you’ll have an embarrassment of amazing new accommodation options to choose from, including the Hotel Roatán Media Luna Resort, a dreamy Caribbean beachfront hideaway, and the Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Roatán, a 2027 opening with a live outdoor music venue and an on-site brewery.

When to visit: December to April.

Eat this: Sopa de Caracol, which is conch snail soup (way nicer than it sounds). 

Do this: La Ceiba. This incredible city needs to be on your itinerary – it is both the “Eco-Tourism Capital of Honduras” and the “Entertainment Capital of Honduras”. In other words: good, clean fun.

18. Utah, USA

The mind boggling beauty of Utah’s fiery, otherworldly landscape has been an open secret for some years now – particularly when it comes to its “Mighty Five” National Parks (Moab, Canyonlands, Arches, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef). But this year there’s a new way to enjoy it, thanks to Flash Pack’s new desert adventure brimming both iconic and off-beat highlights. Prime among these are a guided astrophotography walk to The Windows, where you can discover how shoot the night sky like a pro. The trip also includes canyoning through the two-million-year-old red rock cliffs of Moab Valley, and a taste of Utah’s emerging wine scene, with vinos crafted entirely on-site at the Spanish Valley Winery.

When to visit: April to June and September to November.

Eat this: Fry sauce. Utah’s signature condiment – a tasty, tangy dip you’ll find on everything from salads to burgers.

Do this: Hike the Narrows. Rapidly becoming one of the most famous trails in America, the Narrows involves hiking (and sometimes swimming) through some of Utah’s most insanely tight – and insanely beautiful – slot canyons.

Images: Flash Pack and Unsplash