Sure, Paris is always a good idea, but after the 10th visit, it might be time to branch out. From Greenland to Uganda, these gorgeous off-the-grid locales are beyond worthy of a far-flung trip.
Greenland
For years, Iceland has stolen the spotlight, leaving Greenland’s towering fjords, glacial tundras, and colorful villages blissfully undiscovered.
In fact, the country is so remote—80 percent of it is covered with ice caps—that dog sledding and sea kayaking aren’t just fun pastimes, they’re main methods of transportation as there are no roads linking the small coastal settlements.
The best way to explore is to sign up for a tour, such as a whale-watching expedition, a helicopter ride over Uummannaq Fjord, or an Arctic wildlife excursion to see reindeer, polar bears, and walruses. Visit between September and April to watch the Northern Lights paint the sky.
Tasmania
You won’t find any devils here. Plan a visit to the far reaches of Tasmania. (Photo: Getty Images)
When most travelers make the 20-hour trek to Australia, their sights are usually set on Sydney and Melbourne. But just off the country’s southern coast, Tasmania is a diamond in the rough (literally).
A wild geography of arid, windswept land, rolling vineyards, prehistoric eucalyptic forests, and rugged coastline set the tone of this island state, while an emerging contemporary art and craft beer scene add a surprising cosmopolitan twist.
Make sure to hike Eaglehawk Neck‘s 600,000 waterfront acres or the Bay of Fires—where you may be lucky enough to spot wallabies, kangaroos, or the elusive Tasmanian devil.
Then, when hunger strikes, head into the harbor capital of Hobart for your choice of tasting-menu meals. Our favorite: Faro, a just-opened tapas restaurant in the new light installation wing at MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art (which also has its own on-site microbrewery and winery).
Oman
Experience the desert vastness of Oman. (Photo: Getty Images)
This Middle Eastern getaway, bordered by Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E., is home to lush, tropical beaches, desert oases, and the rugged Al Hajar peaks. It also features some of the most over-the-top resorts in the region, namely the Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, set in the gardens between dramatic Al Hajar mountains and shimmering sea of Oman.
There’s also the standout Mirbat Marriott Resort, which is set on the shores of the Arabian Sea along the white sand beaches of Mirbat Cove, tucked into the foot of Jebel Samhan mountains.
Uruguay
South America is famous for its boho-chic beach culture, and Uruguay doesn’t disappoint. A glam jetset crowd flocks to the country’s Golden Riviera for its surf scene, elegant vineyards, and design-forward resorts.
Head to José Ignacio, a bustling beach town that comes alive in November, the start of Uruguay’s summer season. Drop your bags at Mansa Beach, the calm counterpart to Brava, before heading to the waterfront Parador La Huella restaurant for whole grilled sea bass and homemade sangria.
Uganda
Make friends with the primates in Uganda. (Photo: Getty Images)
Although Rwanda is known for its wildlife (especially the endangered mountain gorillas), neighboring Uganda is the quieter sibling that provides similar experiences for half the permit price. This lush land is rife with rolling tea plantations and rainforests.
At Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, guides can take you on a four-hour hike (with a porter, of course) to track the majestic mountain gorillas. Or, visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can spot golden monkeys and meet the friendly Batwa tribe who live nearby.
Andorra
Sandwiched between Spain and France, the tiny 180-square-mile country of Andorra remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Here, the Pyrenees Mountains are a hub for outdoor activity—whether that’s horseback riding through the alpine meadows in the summer or schussing down the slopes at Vallnord come winter and spring.
After a day of adventures, soak those sore muscles in the thermal baths at Caldea Thermal Spa then refuel with a farm-to-fork feast at one of Andorra’s traditional bordas (stone restaurants).
This article was published through a partnership with Marriott Traveler. Read the original story: 7 Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences for Adventurers by Chelsea Bengier, a regular contributor to Jetsetter.
Need A Massage? Learn How To Give One To Yourself And Your Loved Ones
Receiving a massage, whether it’s given by someone else or self-administered, can help loosen your muscles and establish a better connection not only with your body but also with the people you love.
