Looking for somewhere different to visit in 2027? Discover seven incredible travel destinations, from Slovenia and Oman to Uzbekistan and Madagascar, with inspiration for your next tailor-made holiday.
There's something rather exciting about discovering somewhere you've never been before. That feeling of arriving in a new destination, taking in the unfamiliar sights and sounds, and realising that you've got an entirely new world waiting to be explored.
While some destinations will always hold a special place in our hearts, there's a lot to be said for looking beyond the familiar.
We all know the appeal of Italy's beautiful coastlines, Greece's idyllic islands and the Caribbean's picture-perfect beaches. But what if your next holiday took you somewhere a little less expected?
Perhaps it's a country you've never considered, a destination you've heard about but know very little about, or somewhere that offers a completely different style of travel.
For 2027, I've put together seven destinations that deserve a place on your travel wish list. Each offers something unique, whether that's extraordinary scenery, fascinating culture, incredible wildlife or experiences that take you well beyond the usual tourist trail.
So, if you're ready to discover somewhere new, here are a few places I'd love to see you explore.
1. Slovenia: Europe's Beautifully Underrated Escape
If you love the idea of an alpine holiday but fancy somewhere a little different from the traditional favourites, Slovenia should be firmly on your radar.
Tucked between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, this small European country is packed with natural beauty. Think emerald-green lakes, dramatic mountain scenery, charming towns and beautiful countryside.
Lake Bled is perhaps its most recognisable attraction, with its fairytale island church and medieval castle overlooking the water. It's the sort of place that looks almost too beautiful to be real.
But there's so much more to Slovenia than its famous lake.
The Julian Alps offer wonderful opportunities for hiking, cycling and outdoor adventures, while Lake Bohinj provides a quieter alternative for those wanting to escape the crowds.
Then there's Ljubljana, the country's charming capital. With its riverside cafés, colourful architecture and relaxed atmosphere, it's a lovely city to explore on foot.
Why visit?
Slovenia is ideal for travellers who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful scenery and independent exploration. It also works wonderfully as part of a multi-centre European holiday, particularly when combined with northern Italy or Croatia.
My recommendation: Allow at least seven to ten days to explore Ljubljana, Lake Bled and the surrounding alpine region without feeling rushed.
2. Oman: Arabian Adventures Beyond the Ordinary
If you're looking for a destination that combines dramatic scenery, fascinating culture and a touch of luxury, Oman is well worth considering.
Often overlooked in favour of its more familiar Middle Eastern neighbours, Oman offers an altogether different experience. It's a country of vast desert landscapes, rugged mountains, traditional villages and beautiful coastlines.
Muscat provides a wonderful introduction, with its impressive architecture, bustling souks and beautiful waterfront setting. From here, you can venture into the Hajar Mountains, discover ancient forts and explore traditional villages that seem to have changed very little over the years.
One of the real highlights is the Wahiba Sands, where enormous golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Spend a night in a luxury desert camp, enjoy a traditional dinner beneath the stars and wake up to the incredible stillness of the desert.
For something completely different, head towards the coastline, where beautiful beaches and opportunities for dolphin watching, snorkelling and turtle encounters await.
Why visit?
Oman is perfect for travellers seeking culture, adventure and luxury in equal measure. It's also a wonderful destination for a multi-centre itinerary, combining city stays, mountain retreats, desert camps and coastal resorts.
My recommendation: Consider visiting between October and April, when temperatures are generally more comfortable for exploring.
3. Uzbekistan: A Journey Along the Ancient Silk Road
For travellers who love history, architecture and discovering cultures that feel a world away from home, Uzbekistan is an extraordinary destination.
Located in Central Asia, this fascinating country was once a major crossroads along the ancient Silk Road, the historic trading route that connected East and West.
Today, its cities offer a remarkable glimpse into that past.
Samarkand is perhaps the most famous, with its magnificent Registan Square, intricate blue-tiled architecture and grand Islamic monuments. It's a destination that feels almost otherworldly, particularly when the sunlight catches the beautiful mosaics.
Bukhara is another highlight, with its atmospheric old town, ancient trading domes and winding streets. Meanwhile, Khiva feels like stepping back in time, with its beautifully preserved historic city walls and traditional architecture.
One of the joys of exploring Uzbekistan is the opportunity to travel between these historic cities by rail, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.
Why visit?
Uzbekistan is ideal for curious travellers who enjoy cultural discovery, history and immersive experiences. It's particularly rewarding as a guided touring holiday, allowing you to discover the stories behind its extraordinary architecture and heritage.
My recommendation: Allow around ten to fourteen days to explore Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva at a comfortable pace.
4. Madagascar: A Wildlife Adventure Like No Other
If wildlife and nature are high on your travel wish list, Madagascar offers something genuinely extraordinary.
Located off the southeast coast of Africa, this remarkable island is home to an incredible collection of plants and animals, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on Earth.
Lemurs are perhaps Madagascar's most famous residents, and spotting these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat is an experience in itself.
Beyond the wildlife, the island offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes. Discover dense rainforests, dramatic limestone formations, beautiful beaches and the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs, where enormous ancient trees create one of the most recognisable landscapes in Africa.
For those who enjoy adventure, there are opportunities for guided nature walks, wildlife encounters, snorkelling and exploring remote coastal communities.
Madagascar does require a little more planning than some destinations, particularly when it comes to transport and connecting different regions. However, with the right itinerary and knowledgeable local guides, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
Why visit?
Madagascar is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventurous couples and families with older children who enjoy nature and exploration.
My recommendation: Don't try to see the entire island in one trip. Focus on a few carefully selected regions to make the most of your time.
5. Albania: The Mediterranean's Emerging Star
For those who love the Mediterranean but want to discover somewhere beyond the familiar favourites, Albania is definitely worth exploring.
With a spectacular coastline, beautiful mountain scenery, fascinating history and charming traditional towns, Albania offers an appealing alternative to some of Europe's more established holiday destinations.
The Albanian Riviera is particularly beautiful, with turquoise waters, hidden coves and a growing collection of boutique hotels and beachside restaurants.
Further inland, you'll find historic towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër, both recognised for their traditional architecture and fascinating heritage.
The capital, Tirana, offers a completely different atmosphere, with colourful buildings, lively cafés and a growing food and cultural scene.
Albania also works well as part of a wider Balkan adventure, particularly when combined with Montenegro or North Macedonia.
Why visit?
Albania is a great choice for travellers who enjoy coastal relaxation but also want opportunities to explore history, culture and beautiful countryside.
My recommendation: Consider travelling in June or September for a lovely balance of warm weather and a slightly quieter atmosphere than the busiest summer weeks.
6. Bhutan: A Truly Different Kind of Journey
Some destinations are all about seeing as much as possible. Bhutan encourages you to slow down, appreciate your surroundings and experience a completely different way of life.
Nestled in the Himalayas between India and China, Bhutan is a fascinating kingdom known for its spectacular mountain scenery, Buddhist monasteries and deeply rooted cultural traditions.
One of its most iconic sights is the Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Paro Valley. The hike to reach it is challenging in places, but the views and sense of achievement make it an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the famous monastery, Bhutan offers beautiful mountain valleys, traditional villages, colourful festivals and opportunities to learn more about its unique cultural heritage.
It's a destination that lends itself particularly well to guided touring, with knowledgeable local guides helping visitors understand the traditions, history and values that shape everyday life.
Bhutan has specific tourism requirements and fees, so planning ahead is essential.
Why visit?
Bhutan is ideal for travellers seeking cultural immersion, meaningful experiences and a holiday that feels genuinely different from everyday life.
My recommendation: Allow at least seven to ten days to explore Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, with time to enjoy the journey between destinations.
7. The Azores: Portugal's Wild Atlantic Secret
If you love the idea of escaping to somewhere beautiful, peaceful and full of natural wonders, the Azores might be just what you're looking for.
This volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean belongs to Portugal, but its landscapes feel wonderfully remote and almost otherworldly.
São Miguel is the largest island and a fantastic starting point for exploring the region. Here you'll find spectacular volcanic lakes, lush green hills, natural hot springs and beautiful coastal scenery.
Sete Cidades is one of the island's most famous sights, with its twin lakes sitting inside an enormous volcanic crater. The contrasting colours of the water create a breathtaking view from above.
There are also opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, hiking, canyoning and exploring the island's traditional villages.
For travellers with a little more time, combining São Miguel with another island such as Pico or Terceira offers an even deeper insight into this beautiful part of the world.
Why visit?
The Azores are perfect for nature lovers, active travellers and anyone looking for a European escape that feels a little different.
My recommendation: Visit between May and September for generally favourable conditions for outdoor activities and whale watching, although wildlife sightings and weather can never be guaranteed.
How to Choose Somewhere New for Your Next Holiday
Choosing a new destination can be one of the most exciting parts of planning a holiday, but it's also easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities.
My advice is to start with the experience you're looking for rather than simply picking a country from a map.
Are you craving adventure and outdoor activities? Perhaps Slovenia, Madagascar or the Azores would be a great fit.
Do you love history, culture and discovering somewhere with a fascinating story? Uzbekistan and Bhutan could be wonderful choices.
Or maybe you're dreaming of a little luxury alongside incredible scenery and unique experiences. Oman offers plenty of opportunities to combine the two.
It's also worth thinking about the practicalities, including the time of year, flight connections, travel distances and how much time you have available.
Sometimes the most rewarding holidays aren't about visiting as many places as possible. They're about choosing the right destinations and giving yourself enough time to really experience them.
Let's Find Somewhere New to Explore
One of the things I love most about being a travel planner is introducing people to destinations they might never have considered.
Often, clients come to me with a general idea of what they'd like from their next holiday rather than a particular destination. That's absolutely fine. In fact, it's one of my favourite places to start.
I'll take the time to understand your travel style, interests, budget and the experiences that matter most to you before suggesting destinations and creating an itinerary that feels completely personal.
Whether you're dreaming of an adventure through Central Asia, a luxury escape in the Middle East or discovering Europe's lesser-known corners, there's a whole world waiting to be explored.
Sometimes the best holidays begin with a destination you hadn't even considered.
Get in touch with Wanderlust Escapes and let's discover where 2027 could take you.
