Traveling is an activity many people enjoy doing. Going to new places can refresh your mind, clear your thoughts, and help you relax and enjoy. When people get too caught up in the busy world, they tend to pack up and find a place to catch their breath. Some people want a quiet countryside vibe, others enjoy serene beaches and sunsets, while adventure seekers try to see and experience the most exotic places in the world.
Planning your first exotic vacation? We got you covered. Here are some of the most exotic places in the world, including a complete travel guide on everything you need to know before you start your once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Preparing for an Exotic Vacation
1. Pick your travel destination.
The first thing you need to do when preparing for your exotic vacation is to pick your destination. There are thousands of beautiful places around the globe which you can access quickly with a plane ticket. However, choosing the place you’ll visit also depends on some circumstances. For instance, you may consider time, money, and distance as factors when selecting the perfect vacation place.
2. Save or earn money for your trip.
Generally, traveling is expensive. Especially when you want to visit places abroad, you’ll need to spend on your plane ticket, accommodation, food, and other activities. One of the ways to prepare yourself financially when planning on a trip is to save or find a way to earn extra bucks. You can plan your vacation months before to give yourself enough time to save up or come up with the needed budget.
3. Choose the best time to go on your trip.
To get the most out of your trip, try to research the best time to visit your dream destination. Some places become more stunning given a particular season. For instance, if you’re thinking of visiting Japan, try to do so during the spring months to experience their world-famous cherry blossoms.
3. Book your ticket early.
Booking your flight early can give you more advantages such as flexibility and other perks. Most discounts and seat sales come months before a scheduled flight. So try to check if you’re lucky enough to get one.
>> Be prepared for any emergency with a medical kit.
3. Find a good hotel accommodation and transport service.
Traveling for hours can be very tiring. So arranging your transport service and hotel accommodation ensures you’ll have a comfortable bed waiting for a refreshing short nap. Especially during peak season, expect many tourists to flock to your vacation destination. Taking chances to book a room when you arrive can be impractical and stressful.
The Ultimate Exotic Vacation Packing List
Here’s a complete checklist of everything you need to bring when traveling to ensure your comfort and convenience.
Essentials
- Passport/ Visa
- Booking and flight tickets
- Wallet/ ATM and Credit Cards
- Personal IDs
- Reservations and itineraries
- Map and other guide books
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss
- Soap, Facial Wash
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Deodorant
- Comb or Brush
- Lotion, Moisturizer and Sun block
- Contact lenses and Contact Solution
- Shaving supplies
Gadgets
- Power banks and chargers
- Camera
- Smartphone
- Memory card
- Global SIM card
First Aid Kit
- First aid kit (gauze, bandages, adhesives, etc.)
- Personal prescriptions
- Pain and fever relievers
- Cold medicines and throat lozenges
- Diarrhea/laxative medicines
- Allergy medicines
- Multivitamins
- Sunburn relief
- Insect repellent lotion
- Motion sickness pills
Special Items
- Wipes and Tissues
- Hand sanitizers/ alcohol
- Sunglasses and glasses case
- Umbrella
The clothes you need to bring depends on your destination, the season, and the weather. So here are some clothing essentials you need for specific travel destinations.
Packing Checklist for UK
- Rain jacket
- Boots and comfortable shoes
- Knit sweater
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Underwear
- Belt
- Socks
- Scarf
Packing Checklist for Asia
- Shorts and jeans
- Tank tops and t-shirts
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Underwear
- Beach wear
- Long sleeves and sweat shirt
- Flip flops
- Comfortable shoes
Packing Checklist for Africa
- Skirts or shorts of decent length
- No revealing tops
- Casual, comfortable tank tops
- Jeans or cotton pants
- Semi-casual outfit
- Sweater and long sleeves
- Comfortable shoes or running shoes
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Underwear
Packing Checklist for the Mediterranean
- Casual, lightweight clothes
- Beachwear
- Open-toed sandals
- Jacket or sweatshirt
- Walking shoes
- Semi-casual clothes
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Underwear
Packing Checklist for America
- Shorts, skirts, jeans, long trousers
- T-shirts and tank tops
- Casual dresses
- Light jacket or thick coat (check the weather)
- Hoodie or jumper
- Swim wear
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Underwear
Most Exotic Places in UK
The UK is a juxtaposition of the old and the new. Although the cities are generally bustling with modern architecture and skyscrapers, you’ll still find many relics to remind you of its glorious past and rich heritage. If you enjoy a picturesque view, fairy-tale-like towns, and old enchanting ruins, the UK will definitely top your travel bucket list as one of the most exotic places in the world.
St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall
Cornwall is a small tidal island just outside of Marazion. Not many people know the hidden beauty of St. Michael’s Mount, and only a few have experienced this breathtaking scenery.
Highlights:
- Medieval castle
- Decadent local food
- Sub-tropical gardens
- Stunning views
Important Details
Book a personal tour with a private tour guide to ensure you don’t miss any spectacle. Tour rates range from $400 to $600, depending on the type of tour you take. You can also book a cottage vacation rental to experience the laidback life in Cornwall. Cottage rates depend on the season, so book your cottage before your trip to get the accurate rate on your travel dates.
Achmelvich, Scotland
This remote island in the Scottish Highlands boasts gleaming white sand and crystal clear waters. For beach lovers, Achmelvich, Scotland is indeed a must-see exotic destination.
Highlights:
- Crystal clear waters
- Brilliant white sand
- Virgin island
- Mount view pods
Important Details
This beach haven is a hidden gem waiting for adventurous travelers. Book a trip with your friends and spend your day in Achmelvich beach, which is one of the clearest waters in the UK. You can find various mount view pods and charming, modern hotels around the area, with a stunning view of the place. Vacation rentals range from $100 to $300, depending on location and amenities.
Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides
The Isle of Mull is a humble town in Scotland with a rustic natural beauty that showcases their preserved history and culture. The ruins and century-old buildings are a hit for nature lovers and those who want to explore the untouched and less-visited destinations.
Highlights:
- Tobermory Distillery
- MacKinnon’s Cave
- Lochbuie stone circle
- 13th-century Duart Castle
- Aurora Borealis
Important Details
The Isle of Mull isn’t as popular as other destinations in Scotland; however, it offers various historical architectures that will surely take your breath away. Visit the famous Tobermory Distillery if you want to taste the best malt Scotch in Scotland. You can also spend the day basking in the sun on their amazing and inviting beaches. In the months of September to March, you might be lucky enough to get a glimpse of the famous Aurora Borealis of the Northern Lights.
Most Exotic Places in Asia
Asia is a diverse destination that gives you about everything you’ll ever want in a dream vacation- delicious food, pristine beaches, fascinating architecture, rich history, and hospitable locals. This exotic destination comprises different regions showcasing their own culture, which tourists can enjoy and immerse on.
Shodoshima, Japan
Shodoshima, Japan, is also known as the island of Little Beans. Finding your way to this majestic island might be a bit challenging. However, locals often serve as guides of adventurers to reach this esoteric haven.
Highlights:
- Movie Village of 24-No-Hitomi
- Angel Road
- Takesan Farm
- Nishinotakiryusui Temple
Important Details
Shodoshima, Japan, gets less credit than it should. This small city boasts various tourist attractions and offers many activities for adventure seekers. Your visit to Shodoshima won’t be complete without visiting the movie village of 24-No-Hitomi. In this scenic filming location, you’ll find a wooden school building, fishermen homes, seasonal flower fields, and many traditional Japanese cultural objects. Suppose you want to spend a day at the beach or book a tour to Angel Road Island. Other must-see spots in this destination include the Takesan Farm and the Nishinotakiryusui Temple, which showcases Japan’s sacred and religious sites.
Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia is a humble city that is yet to be discovered by tourists around the world. Its pristine and untouched beaches are the true hidden paradise of Asia.
Highlights:
- Saracen Bay Beach
- EcoSea Diver
- Blue Lagoon Divers
- DAHLIA Gin Bar
- Sunset Beach Yoga, Reiki, Massage & Accupuncture
Important Details
Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia, is another hidden gem in Asia. You can ask locals to guide you on how to reach the island. Swim into crystal blue waters and bask lazily in the afternoon sun. You can also take a short diving class to appreciate the marine life of Koh Rong Samloem. Aside from sumptuous Cambodian delicacies, you can also enjoy therapeutic massages for the ultimate relaxation.
Most Exotic Places in Africa
The African continent offers captivating attractions that exhibit the grandeur of Mother Nature. Africa has the most diverse flora and fauna, and adventure-seekers worldwide will surely enjoy the dramatic scenery, vast landscapes, and rich culture of this continent. This dream destination offers you incredible travel experiences you surely won’t forget in your lifetime.
Sossusvlei Dunes & Deadvlei, Namibia
Sossusvlei Dunes & Deadvlei, Namibia offers stillness and picturesque landscape. However, you’ll see the grandeur of the dunes when the sun starts to set. The gradient orange and red hues illuminate the dunes, making the entire destination a sight to behold.
Highlights:
- Nimibia Safari
- Camping tour
- Tour by ATV
Important Details
The Sossusvlei Dunes & Deadvlei, Namibia, is the best destination for travelers looking for adventure and a thrilling journey. You can book a tour around the Namibia Safari to appreciate the rich wildlife of Africa. Take a day tour using an ATV and enjoy going around the dunes until sunset. Camping tours are also available for those who would like to experience a day in the savannah.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
If you can’t get enough of the vastness of Africa, then the Serengeti National Park in Tanzanian is your destination to be. This ecosystem is home to 1.5 million white-bearded (or brindled) wildebeests, 250,000 zebras, and numerous Nile crocodiles and honey badgers. It truly is one of the most exotic places in the world.
Highlights:
- The Great Migration
- Abundant wildlife
- Miracle Experience
Important Details
Tanzania is world-famous for The Great Migration. This is the season when tens of thousands of animals move north from their breeding grounds to the grassy southern plains. To see this magnificent phenomenon, book your trip from January to February or from June through September. Another activity you can enjoy in Tanzania is the Miracle Experience, where a hot air balloon allows you a bird’s eye view of the vastness and beauty of the Serengeti National Park.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
If you like visiting inhabited and untouched islands, the Zanzibar Archipelago is one of your best options for a destination. Swim in turquoise-blue waters, enjoy shallow sandbars, and visit fishing villages around Zanzibar.
Highlights:
- Stunning and untouched beaches
- Fishing villages
- World Heritage Site of Stone Town
Important Details
Zanzibar is a humble island that boasts untouched and underdeveloped beauty. Since not many tourists visit this destination, you’ll surely enjoy your escape from the loud city and embrace the calm and stillness of this place. Aside from its astounding beaches, you can also visit tiny fishing villages and get a glimpse of the simple life in Tanzania. Don’t forget to go on a day tour to Zanzibar’s World Heritage Site of Stone Town to complete your visit.
Most Exotic Places in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is one of the most popular summer destinations thanks to its perfect climate and crystal-clear waters. This travel destination also offers the best beach parties and cruise trips. This region also offers immersion in their rich history and culture.
Aeolian Islands, Italy
The Aeolian Islands, Italy, are a group of volcanic islands surrounding the Tyrrhenian Sea. Although tourists flock to the islands during the summer seasons of July and August, you can opt to visit the place in low seasons to marvel and experience the beauty of this destination without the crowds.
Highlights:
- Vulcano island
- Mud bath
- Fresh seafood
- Island of Lipari
- Stromboli
Important Details
Explore the coastlines, take a boat tour, or go scuba diving in crystal-clear waters. Vulcano is one of the most famous islands you can climb for adventurers. Experience a mud bath and swim in seawater covered with volcanic bubbles. On the other hand, Stromboli offers beautiful black sand beaches and a majestic sunset view.
Haifa, Israel
Haifa, Israel, is one of its major cities and is often disregarded as a Mediterranean destination. However, travelers from all over the globe can attest to its strategic coastal location, adventure activities, and plenty of delicious local food you shouldn’t miss in your travel wish list.
Highlights:
- Baha’i Gardens and Golden Dome
- Mada Tech, the Israel National Museum of Science
- Dado Beach
- Carmel National Park
- Delicious street food
Important Details
When in Haifa, book a day tour to the famous Baha’i Gardens and Golden Dome to see one of the most exquisite gardens in the world. The Haifa bay also offers tourists a sight to behold. If you’re bringing kids along, don’t forget to take a side trip to the Mada Tech, the Israel National Museum of Science, for a day full of fun-filled learning. If you’re into hiking and biking, Mount Carmel National Park is your way to go. For a day at the beach, head out to Dado Beach and enjoy the sun and picturesque views.
Most Exotic Places in America
Aleutian Islands, Alaska
For nature lovers and adventurers, the Aleutian Islands provide a mysterious yet spectacular view that lures travelers to explore its wonders. This remote area in Alaska may not be as famous as other towns, but its breathtaking beauty will surely make your trip worth it.
Highlights:
- Abundant wildlife
- Untouched island
- Spectacular view
- Bird watching
Important Details
Some of the attractions of this humble place are the abundant wildlife and active volcanoes. Since not many tourists visit the area, it is the perfect vacation spot if you want to meditate and just enjoy the magnificence of nature. Its charm makes it one of the most exotic places in the world. You’ll find various marine animals and colorful bird species thriving on the island. You can ask locals to serve as a guide so you can reach the site and make the most out of your visit.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
A visit to the Joshua Tree National Park is your best exotic vacation for a unique trip with bizarre plants indigenous to the region. This tourist spot is filled with boulders and landscapes that are almost out of this world.
Highlights:
- Bizarre-looking plants
- Huge boulders
- Rock climbing activities
- Rappelling adventures
Important Details
Photographers, hikers, and climbers will surely appreciate the charm and unparalleled quality of the Joshua Tree National Park. Its eclectic nature makes it an exciting place to visit, especially for artists and adventurers. Book a day trip and enjoy rock climbing and rappelling adventures with your family and friends.
To Wrap It Up
The most exotic places in the world offer breathtaking views and one of a kind travel experience. Immersing in different cultures and heritage allows you to expand your views about how diverse yet beautiful the world is. Although visiting some of these places may seem challenging, your final destination will definitely make all your difficulties worthwhile.
What’s Next?
Ready for your next dream vacation? Check out this round up on the must see places in the world.