Are you looking for a new or unusual vacation spot?  Are you trying to avoid the places that draw crowds?  If so, then you should consider this travel list of this year’s top 15 under-the-radar travel destinations?

1.  Sumba, Indonesia

Today’s Sumba is what Bali used to be over 20 years ago. This “lost world” island is twice as big as its more famous neighbor and has less than a sixth of the population.  Situated north of Australia, south of Flores, and east of Timor, in the Indian Ocean.  It features resorts, numerous idyllic beaches, snorkeling, world-class surfing, and friendly locals too.

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Cork, Ireland

Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork, is reportedly a serious travel alternative to Dublin.  It has a youthful vibe, and foodies will love both the creative, Irish-rooted dishes and the farm-to-table restaurants here.  There are also such pubs as the Long Valley Bar, featuring a bar that runs the entire length of the place, wonderful waterfront views, historic architecture, and you’ve got a perfect holiday.

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Tasmania, Australia

International jet-setters have long loved Tasmania.  Here you’ll discover lush, soaring mountains, remote white sand beaches, and rugged wilderness.  Additionally, Hobart’s experiencing a regular gastronomic renaissance thanks to big chefs cooking up dishes with the area’s high-quality produce. How about a nice, relaxing cruise to popular Wineglass Bay to take in the pink granite peaks of beautiful Freycinet National Park?

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Valle de Cocora, Colombia

The best Colombian alternative to Bogota, Cartagena, and Medellin is Valle de Cocora.  It’s also a great place for caffeine addicts and nature lovers.  This verdant area includes a number of coffee farms that welcome visitors.  It’s also the place where you’ll find the tallest palm trees in the world.  Finally, Valle de Cocora is known as a more remote, peaceful place.

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Tonga

Only 500 miles from famous Fiji, Tonga is not only one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, it’s also the best place on Earth to swim with humpback whales.  Tonga is part of their natural migratory route from the icy Antarctic.  Here you can get close enough to see them eye to eye.  Rather not be that close?  Take a boat tour.

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Faroe Islands

The remote Faroe Islands are getting noticed by adventure travelers.  It’s highlighted by such charming villages as Gasadalur which is dramatically perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the sea.  Secluded by a ring of massive mountains, you could once only reach this spot via a challenging hike.  This tranquil locale is becoming known for its green fields, astounding views, and magnificent waterfall.

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The Azores

900 miles west of Portugal is the European country’s archipelago, The Azores.  These volcanic islands offer visitors a peaceful, timeless beauty with often empty roads lined with hydrangeas and azaleas.  It’s also a great place for breathtaking hikes, incredible cuisine, and wonderful whale watching. Flores Island is well-known for its lovely lagoons, grotto-carved cliffs, hot springs, volcanic remains, and beautiful flowers.

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Asturias, Spain

Veteran visitors say Asturias is one of the country’s “best-kept secrets” but doubt it will remain so.  It has crystal lakes, crowd-free pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, dramatic, jagged mountain peaks, and an exceptional culinary scene.  There are miles of scenic hiking trails, the stunning Covadonga Lakes, and the Holy Cave of Covadonga too.

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Puglia

Most tourists know nothing about Puglia.  (That’s why you should always read your rovin’ writer’s work.)  Highlights include the coastal sea caves at Polignano a Mare and Ostuni.  Also known as “the White Town,” this medieval walled city consists of buildings built atop of each other.  Archways were added to support the structures and compensate for the poor foundations. There’s a 15th-century cathedral too.

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Malawi, Africa

When tourists think of Africa, they think of Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa.  They rarely consider Malawi.  Surrounded by Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia, it features noteworthy national parks complete with areas of pristine white sand.  Snorkelers will love Lake Malawi.  Animal lovers should see Liwonde National Park where you can opt to explore on foot or take an exciting vehicle safari.

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Yaeyama Islands, Japan

These are Japan’s southernmost and westernmost inhabited isles and part of the Okinawa Prefecture.  Here you will discover whales, dugongs, and other marine life around the coral reefs.  The water is clear and aquamarine and the white sand beaches are also beautiful.  Here you can get away from the hustle of the big city and enjoy all manner of water sports.

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Raja Ampat Islands

These rather remote white-sand-covered Indonesian islands are situated in sparkling aquamarine water right over a coral atoll.  The reefs here are full of colorful fish and other sea creatures so it’s perfect for snorkeling.  It’s a tranquil travel destination that offers restful days that end with incredible, jaw-dropping sunsets.

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Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has a bad reputation.  The truth is it’s no longer considered an official “dangerous country to visit.”  In fact, it has a lot to offer travelers and it is currently crowd-free.  Visit the capital city of Nur-Sultan and visit the Ascension Cathedral, and museums and dine at one of the exceptional eateries there.  Take a cable car ride to the top of stunning Kok Tobe Mountain.

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Paraguay

Paraguay is a great travel destination for outdoor lovers.  The cost of the trip is budget-friendly as well.  Be sure to see Guaira Falls, Monday Falls, and Ypacaraí Lake.

The Itaipu Dam even hosts cool nighttime light shows. History buffs will like such historic sites as the impressive 18th-century mission known as La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná, and Asuncion’s popular National Pantheon of Heroes too.

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Bhutan

The Kingdom of Bhutan is remotely located in the Eastern Himalayas in Southern Asia.  This is the country that officially pioneered the concept of GNH or Gross National Happiness used to determine the collective well-being and happiness of the population.  Must-sees include Buddhist temples and Jigme Dorji National Park.  Visit the impressive fortresses, fun markets, and notable monasteries found in neighboring cities of Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, and Trongsa.

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