Here’s where Lonely Planet thinks you should travel in 2017
Get to Mount Taranaki quick. Lonely Planet just outed it as one of the best places to travel. Photo: Getty
Tourist bible Lonely Planet has announced its top 10 regions for travel in 2017 and you better book now because these little-known areas (for some) are about to get busy.
There is something for everyone on the list, from foodie destinations, to thrill-seeker escapes and quiet retreats.
We’ve compiled this gallery looking at the regions, ordered as ranked by Lonely Planet.
1. Choquequirao, Peru
You probably haven’t heard of most of the regions on this list, but we’re guessing you’ve never heard of Choquequirao. If you do know it, you’ll know it’s home to one of the most remote Inca ruins in the Peruvian Andes.
2. Taranaki, New Zealand
In New Zealand, a land of seemingly endless natural wonders, Taranaki on the North Island stands out for the fact it is a less visited but just as rewarding destination.
3. The Azores, Portugal
The mid-Atlantic archipelago is an autonomous region of Portugal, which comprises nine volcanic islands.
4. North Wales, UK
A rural area to the north of main cities Cardiff and Swansea, North Wales is a mysterious area filled with incredible mountains, valleys and coastal vistas.
5. South Australia, Australia
With wonderful food, wine and a hot climate, South Australia was judged to be “a delicious feast suitable to anyone’s taste”, by Lonely Planet.
6. Aysén, Chile
Aysén is a sparsely populated region in the south of Chile with vast glaciers, fjords and snow-capped mountains.
7. The Tuamotus, French Polynesia
The Tuamotus or the Tuamotu Islands, are a French Polynesian chain of almost 80 islands and atolls to explore.
8. Coastal Georgia, USA
Coastal Georgia is the state’s best-kept secret with sandy shores and a plethora of marshes.
9. Perak, Malaysia
Perak is a state in the north-west of Peninsular Malaysia and is the fourth-largest state in the country.
10. The Skellig Ring, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula with a combination of ocean, islands, mountains, towns and villages.