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Jaw-dropping destinations on everyone’s wish list


3 min read
10 June 2020
Type of trip
City breaks

While much of the world’s travel plans have screeched to a halt, our minds continue to wander. Many are eagerly anticipating picking up where their travels left off, while others are planning new adventures. But until the moment is right to explore the world once again, create a wish list on the Booking.com app.

And for those in need of some inspiration, we’ve uncovered the destinations around the world that are on our global travellers’ wish list*.

Cape Town, South Africa

Add a bold coloured accommodation to your wish list

The port city of Cape Town has been a popular destination on our global travellers’ wish lists – and there is much to see and do here. Spend time wandering around the Bo-Kaap neighborhood marvelling at the lines of houses painted in kaleidoscopic colours. Hop on the vintage Franschhoek Wine Tram and be chauffeured to some of the oldest and most distinguished wine estates in the Franschhoek Valley – all while enjoying the rolling vineyard scenery. And lastly, a visit to Boulders Beach will delight all travellers, particularly those fond of animals. It’s the only place in the world where you can see colonies of waddling African Penguins in the wild. Whether you choose to stay by the coast or in a colourful abode back in Bo-Kaap, there are endless accommodations available to suit your wish list.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is known as having the greatest concentration of cultural treasures in Japan

History and culture enthusiasts are adding Kyoto City to their travel wish lists. This inland city has the greatest concentration of cultural treasures in Japan, so it’s regularly associated with tradition and ancient craftsmanship. It also served as the capital from 794 until 1185, with many historical buildings and temples remaining in pristine condition. Upon arrival, it can feel like stepping back in time with pairs of elegant geishas in traditional dress strolling down Hanamikoji Street. And in eastern Kyoto, you’ll find the centuries-old, red-orange torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Finish your trip with a night at a traditional wooden Machiya house.

Miami, US

Beaches, parties and superb weather are inspiring our travellers to add Miami to their wish list

Located in South Florida, Miami is best known for its beaches, parties and superb weather – and it’s at the top of global travellers’ travel wish lists. South Beach – which is colloquially thought of as the American Riviera – is where most of the locals and tourists flock to. It’s an Art Deco playground buzzing with bronzed bodies, world-class restaurants and also small places to grab a casual beachside bite. It also has a wide range of hotels that would each be the perfect addition to any wish list.

Tulum, Mexico

The 13th-century Mayan ruins are a must-see when in Tulum

Tulum – a coastal town on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula – has made it onto our travellers’ wish lists and it’s easy to see why. The glassy, turquoise ocean invites you in for a quick dip, while the pearl-white sand is ideal for drying off under the sun. There are also 13th-century Mayan ruins perched on a cliff-face begging to be explored. And for the animal-lovers, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is close by. A natural Unesco World Heritage Site, it’s a paradisiacal place where you’ll find undisturbed fauna such as jaguars, manatees and hundreds of bird and butterfly species. This tropical oasis also has endless luxury beach accommodations deserving of anyone’s wish list.

Natal, Brazil

Natal is ideal for a thrill seeker's wish list

Travellers around the world may be stuck at home but many are dreaming about Brazil’s sunny coastline and in particular, Natal, which is located on Brazil's northeastern tip. This city is scattered with isolated beaches, mile-high dunes, lagoons and quiet fishing villages. But a visit here promises even more than relaxation in a seaside idyll, as this city is also famous for its dune buggies. You can cruise the coast in your open-top buggy during the day and retire to your sea-facing accommodation for the evening to watch the gentle waves of the sea crashing onto the sun-kissed sand.

*We looked at the top destinations our global travellers added to their Booking.com wish lists since March 2020.