Bucket List Destinations to Visit in 2020

Thinking about traveling in 2020?

Of course you have, that’s why you’re here!

A new decade brings a lot of new ideas. Here are my top 5 Bucket List Destinations for 2020 in no particular order. Let’s. Get. Started!

Banff & Lake Louise, Canada

Banff is somewhere that recently hit my FOMO list. Not sure what FOMO means? Fear of Missing Out! This little kept secret in Canada has been a hot spot for years for those who were aware of it’s beautiful landscape. Seemingly, it’s become a lot more popular over the last couple of years though. The small town in Alberta Canada offers a signature Canadian experience.

Banff and Lake Louise have a rich heritage as some of the world’s most awe-inspiring mountain destinations. With easy access to pristine wilderness, endless outdoor adventures, jaw-dropping sights, and a vibrant history and culture, there is a lifetime’s worth of things to do in Banff and Lake Louise.

Surprisingly, getting to and having fun at this destination is not expensive for USA travelers. Round-trip airfare and lodging can be had for a few hundred dollars. If you’re looking for a unique stay, always be sure to check out AirBnb.


Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Khao Sok National Park in Southern Thailand is an amazing place. It is covered by the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, huge limestone mountains shooting straight up in the air, deep valleys, breathtaking lakes, exciting caves, wild animals and much more.

Khao Sok is perfectly situated on the mainland between Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak and Koh Samui, the most popular destinations in Southern Thailand. It is a fantastic place to go on vacation. Close and personal elephant encounters, jungle trekking on foot and canoeing are all possible activities, which will give you the experience of a lifetime.

One of the most interesting areas is stunningly beautiful Cheow Larn Lake in the heart of the National Park with its floating raft houses and luxury tents – an absolute must-see!

Related: 25 Things You Need To Do Before Leaving On Vacation


Cape Town, South Africa

Have you ever dreamed of going on an African Safari? Laying and chillaxing on a pristine beach? How about strolling through a vineyard and sipping on some of the best wine in the world? You can do all of that in Cape Town South Africa! You wouldn’t know it but the southern town is becoming a hot spot to travel to.

I haven’t even mentioned the hiking options along the rugged coastline. Or, the rooftop and beach bars. Foodie lover’s rejoice as Cape Town is a mecca of culinary deliciousness. So, that begs the question, why you shouldn’t go to Cape Town South Africa? Well, the airfare can be a bit steep. Check prices on Sky Scanner, track prices, and then get alerts for your tracked flights to save a ton of cash.


Costa Rica

You can’t go wrong with traveling anywhere in the country. West Costa Rica is a surfers paradise, all along the coastline. Miles and miles of beaches, beach bars and a laid back lifestyle. Central Costa Rica brings volcano’s, mountains, whitewater rafting, zip-lining and thermal hot springs. East Costa Rica and the Carribbean side has the picture-perfect clear water for snorkeling, swimming, water activities and plenty of sun.

Related: The Best Hostels in Costa Rica

The country is lively, amazing, organic, genuine and heartwarming. Over the last few years Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular and I want you to experience it first hand. I traveled to Costa Rica in March of 2019 and it was an adventure I will never forget. Read my day to day journey for trip ideas, places to stop and itinerary.

The biodiversity is what kept me wanting to explore more and the culture made me want to stay longer. Did I mention I stayed in some really unique places like a Yurt, Teepee tent and a few hostels? After a full week in central Costa Rica, the country didn’t disappoint in any way. The adventures didn’t disappoint, the culture didn’t disappoint and the food certainly didn’t disappoint.

Check out my cinematic travel film I made while visiting Costa Rica.


Bali, Indonesia

Oh Bali, where do I even start!? There is no other place like Bali in this world. The Island of the Gods offers great beaches, countless waves for surfing and wonderful natural sites to visit and explore, colorful ceremonies, and gifted artists.

If this sounds a lot like Costa Rica, it’s not, but it’s equally as beautiful. Bali is famous for a very high value-for-money-ratio, which allows traveler to enjoy and afford the wonder of this island, regardless of their budget. Being a budget-traveling duo, this is the perfect getaway across the world. Choose from basic home-stays run by friendly Balinese families, and 5star beach resorts or luxurious, or privately-serviced Bali villas with your private pool. Live a rockstar lifestyle for a week for just $50 a day.

But, Bali is much more than that! There is a special vibe, an essence, something authentic that is difficult to describe, which has touched and inspired visitors from all over the world since decades. It has something to do with the Balinese themselves and their warm and welcoming character. You have to experience it to believe it. Bali is truly magical, it allows you to be who you want to be.


What destinations are on your bucket list for 2020?


4 Responses to “Bucket List Destinations to Visit in 2020

  • I have always wanted to go to Canada and Thailand. I have family members who are either from there or have visited these countries and the stories they tell just sound incredible. Such rich locations that are full of culture and history! Hopefully, I’ll be there one day!

    • Jade, same here. I’ve been dreaming of going to Thailand for a few years now but due to its location, it has not been in the cards yet. Living in the Midwest, getting to Canada is a much easy feat, so I’m sure I will get there sooner, rather than later!

  • Hi Nick, loved your bucket list for 2020! It’s soo similar to ours I can definitely recommend South-Africa, for us it’s still probably number one of all places we’ve been too so far
    Our next big dream is probably Canada #fomo indeed!!

    • This coronavirus has really put a damper on checking off the bucket-list this year. I feel like I need to make a 2021 list already! Do you have a link to your list?

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