BEST OF THE WORLD
National Geographic Traveller (UK)|January/February 2021
The joy of travel comes from the unexpected. And while the pandemic was just that, bringing journeys to a standstill, it’s certainly not quieted our curiosity. With the new year comes the promise of a return to travel, and we’re eager to get going. The editors of the 16 editions of National Geographic Traveller around the world have lined up 35 of the very best places our planet has to offer for 2021 and beyond: superlative destinations that speak of resilient communities, smart sustainability efforts and unforgettable experiences for post-pandemic explorations. The world is full of wonders — even if they’re hard to reach right now — so take this time to plot and plan your next journey and lay the foundation for that much-dreamed-about big trip
BEST OF THE WORLD

SUSTAINABILITY

From carbon-neutral cities in the making to destinations offering a blueprint for sustainable nature and wildlife tourism, these are the pick of the places that aim to safeguard our precious planet’s natural wonders

COSTA RICA

CELEBRATIONS FOR THE PIONEER OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

So, you want to escape? Imagine a country that’s one-quarter national park, a place where you could hike in a rainforest in the morning and surf tropical waves in the afternoon. Imagine an adventure Eden where sustainability was a strategy long before the world caught on, where jaguars prowl in the jungle, harpy eagles fly and Jesus Christ lizards walk on water before your eyes. That country is Costa Rica. 2021 is the bicentennial of its independence, an anniversary it aims to celebrate by becoming the world’s first carbon-neutral country. Already one of the greenest nations, conservation has been cultivated here since the 1970s, with drives to protect areas, close zoos and reverse deforestation.

For a deep immersion, plot a course for the Osa Peninsula at the tip of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast; an astonishing 2.5% of the Earth’s biodiversity is squeezed into 0.001% of its surface area. This was one of the last frontiers to be inhabited in Costa Rica when the discovery of gold prompted a wave of migration in the 1930s. Today, the gold rush has gone, and much of the region is accessible only by boat, horse or hiking trail.

This story is from the January/February 2021 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the January/February 2021 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER (UK)View All
The craftspeople of Sarawak
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

The craftspeople of Sarawak

From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES

From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter

time-read
6 mins  |
January/February 2024
GOLDEN YEARS
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

GOLDEN YEARS

Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades

time-read
1 min  |
January/February 2024
A TASTE OF The Philippines
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

A TASTE OF The Philippines

A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

WHERE TO STAY Helsinki

FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

A YEAR OF ADVENTURE

Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
Bear Grylls
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Bear Grylls

THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP

time-read
3 mins  |
January/February 2024
BOSTON
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

BOSTON

In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
BALI
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

BALI

Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
MANCHESTER
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

MANCHESTER

A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout

time-read
7 mins  |
January/February 2024