Every year, a new set of destinations pops onto the radar, touted as “must-visit” spots. Google’s Year in Search for 2024 highlights the trending places that U.S. travelers are searching for, and let me tell you—some of these are surprising.
But here’s my question: Are these spots truly hidden gems, or are they already at risk of becoming overrun? Should we rush to see them now or let them simmer a little longer before jumping on the bandwagon?
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Padli Pradana.
Let’s break down the list, destination by destination, and talk about what’s really happening on the ground—and what it means for thoughtful travelers like us.
The Trending Travel Spots for 2024
- Gili Islands, Indonesia
Picture white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and no motorized vehicles. The Gili Islands—Trawangan, Meno, and Air—are the definition of an island paradise. But here’s the catch: the word is out. Tourism is skyrocketing, and with it, the infrastructure is straining. If you want to experience the Gili vibe, go now, but tread lightly. Stick to eco-friendly stays and consider visiting the less-touristy Meno or Air over Trawangan. - Washington, D.C.
A classic choice, right? But beyond the National Mall and monuments, D.C. is having a moment. The food scene is exploding, and the neighborhoods—like trendy Adams Morgan or historic Georgetown—are a draw all on their own. It’s not exactly off-the-beaten-path, but there’s always something new to discover. - Miami, Florida
Miami is a city that knows how to reinvent itself. Yes, there are beaches, but the real magic is in the neighborhoods: Wynwood’s art scene, Little Havana’s music and food, and the Design District’s high-end vibe. It’s a city that’s already big, bold, and booming—so no need to rush before it “gets discovered.” - Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam isn’t exactly a secret, but its inclusion here shows it’s not losing its appeal. The city is battling over-tourism hard—restricting Airbnbs, cracking down on nuisance tourism, and even asking travelers to explore beyond the city center. So, while it’s still worth a visit, consider smaller Dutch towns like Haarlem or Utrecht to dodge the crowds. - Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is that artsy, mountain town everyone dreams of moving to after a weekend visit. It’s got craft breweries, Blue Ridge Parkway views, and a creative spirit that feels unique. The secret’s already out, though, so don’t expect solitude—especially during peak leaf-peeping season. - Banff, Canada
Banff is otherworldly beautiful—those turquoise lakes and jagged peaks are the stuff of postcards. But it’s also a hotbed of over-tourism. If you go, get up early, visit during shoulder seasons, and respect the delicate balance of nature and tourism. - American Samoa
Now, this is an under-the-radar pick! American Samoa is stunning and unspoiled, with emerald peaks and endless ocean views. But its remote location keeps the crowds away for now. If you’re craving somewhere truly off the beaten path, this is it—but remember, with great beauty comes great responsibility to travel respectfully. - Canary Islands, Spain
These volcanic islands off the coast of Africa have long been a favorite for European sun-seekers. What’s new is their increasing draw for U.S. travelers. Each island offers something unique—Tenerife’s starry skies, Lanzarote’s lunar landscapes—so pick based on your vibe. - Turks and Caicos
Powdery beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a sense of exclusivity still define Turks and Caicos. But as with most tropical paradises, the more people discover it, the harder it is to maintain its untouched feel. It’s beautiful—but be prepared to share. - Azores, Portugal
The Azores are having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. This mid-Atlantic archipelago is a dream for nature lovers, with hot springs, waterfalls, and epic hiking. They’ve been touted as the “next Iceland,” which means now is the time to go—before those crowds fully arrive.
To Go or Not to Go?
Get in now: Destinations like the Azores, Gili Islands, and American Samoa are still flying a bit under the radar—so if they’re calling your name, go sooner rather than later. Just remember to travel responsibly: stay in locally-owned accommodations, avoid peak seasons, and leave no trace.
Think twice: For places like Amsterdam or Banff, the boom is already here. These spots are magical, but they’re also struggling under the weight of their popularity. If you go, plan strategically and consider exploring nearby alternatives.
Be part of the solution: Over-tourism is real, and it’s on all of us to minimize our impact. Whether you’re visiting a trending spot or a hidden gem, the goal is the same: to experience the world without leaving it worse for wear.
What Do You Think?
Are these truly the next big destinations, or have they already “boomed”? Would you visit now, or are you steering clear of the hype?
Let’s chat—what’s on your 2024 travel radar?
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Javier Ruiz.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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