DEFINITIVE LIST OF THE 20 MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE WORLD
Who doesn't look at breathtaking travel photos on Instagram and fantasize about visiting the most beautiful places in the world? But just what are the most beautiful places? Depending on the person you ask, the answers could be wildly different: Paris with its iconic skyline, the rugged peaks of Yosemite that Ansel Adams made famous, the picture-perfect islands of Greece.
20. Sydney, Australia
Why: "Sydney far exceeded my expectations. It felt like a cool mix of London and New York City, with the friendliest people. The Park Hyatt Sydney is the absolute best spot to stay — located right at the base of the Harbour Bridge and across from the Opera House. You have the best views of the city. Jet lag worked in my favor, allowing me to catch the most beautiful sunrise on my last morning in Sydney."
19. Portland, Oregon
S.
Why: "Oregon is a landscaper photography's heaven, with all the lush national parks and its waterfalls, lakes, mountains. It would make a pleasant road trip in summer."
18. Cuba
Why: "With all the architecture and culture, Cuba was a feast for the eyes, as well as a lesson in what it's like to live under Castro's rule for so long. All the things we take for granted are the simple things a Cuban longs for. I've traveled extensively, but being in Cuba really tugged at my heartstrings in a way no other place has."
Why: "Barcelona is like a big village. So many streets are for pedestrians, and it makes it so agreeable to walk around the city. So many places where you can relax and enjoy a good cocktail. It is definitely a great city to visit."
Why: "I believe that architecture and emotions can be melded and transformed into magic tales, and Mexico City is the kind of city that becomes what you want whenever you want. You can find all kinds of surreal moments in it.”
Israel
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Why: "Tel Aviv is a stylish, completely contemporary Mediterranean metropolis. But the real seductive power of Tel Aviv is not necessarily in its cafes and restaurants, but in its people, who love the good life."
14. Philippines
Why: "Cabugao Gamay is a small island located two kilometers off the coast of Isla de Gigantes Sur in Carles, Iloilo. The island’s shape is unique because it features rock formations, a gorgeous white sandbar and emerald waters."
13. Thailand
James Bond Island in Thailand. (Courtesy of @tiffpenguin / Instagram)
Who: Tiffany Nguyen is a dentist from Southern California who morphs into an adventure-seeking photographer on weekends. She hopes to inspire others to get outside and explore more. "As a dentist, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is giving my patients the confidence to smile," she says. "As a photographer, my goal is to be able to capture the story of my adventures in a photo in the hopes of inspiring others to create their own adventures."
Why: "James Bond Island is one of the most visited spots in Thailand, but seeing this place for myself was simply unbelievable. It's places like this that make you want to keep traveling and find new places to explore."
12. Istanbul
Why: "Things are back to normal in Turkey, thank God. Istanbul is where your dreams come true."
11. Bahamas
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Why: "The Bahamas have some spectacular caves — this one is Thunderball Grotto in the Exuma Cays, where the James Bond movie of the same name was filmed."
10. Greece
Who: Nastasia Wong is the founder of Dame Traveler and a lover of travel, photography and life. She has traveled to over 40 countries and her passion for travel has led her to create a sizable community of female travelers. Whether sipping on chai in Istanbul or volunteering abroad in South Africa, Nastasia continues to find and share the beauty of this world, thus inspiring people to change the way they see and experience travel and life.
9. Miami
Why: "Miami has such a fun combination of a chic glamorous city and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere. There are gorgeous hotels (the new Faena Miami Beach is a jaw-dropper!), incredible restaurants and top-notch people watching. It's easy to see why Miami is a favorite getaway spot for so many people."
8. Rome
Why: "Rome is absolutely gorgeous. It's necessary to explore the city by foot, walking around all day long to discover little secret alleyways and cute cafés. A must-see!"
7. London
Why: "Having lived in London for one year, I quickly felt like a Londoner. This city is so lively and warm. Especially during wintertime, where the Christmas spirit is simply incredible."
6. Paris
Why: "Paris is one of those cities that you won't be able to stop thinking about once you've visited. I can't pinpoint if it's the language, the Eiffel Tower or the amazing food, but Paris stays with you forever."
5. Yosemite
Who: Tiffany Nguyen
Why: "Sometimes waking up at the crack of dawn has its perks and this particular morning at Yosemite National Park certainly did not disappoint."
4. San Francisco
Why: "No matter how far I travel, I always remember to kick back, relax and enjoy the show."
3. Los Angeles
Why: "Feeling the pier pressure at Manhattan Beach Pier. This is one of my favorite beaches in Los Angeles to recharge and reflect."
2. Venice, Italy
Why: "Burano is one of the most colorful towns I've ever visited. It feels like you've just stepped into a huge box of Crayons from the moment you've hopped off the ferry from the main island of Venice."
1. New York City
Why: "New York has been my favorite city ever since I was a child. Walking around the city that never sleeps has always made me feel free and surrounded by people from all around the world.
Hakuna maoni