You know what they say: “Catch flights not feelings.” Every once in a while, discovering the world and visiting new places is what your heart and soul need. Consider this a sign to travel to that place on your bucket list you’ve been dying to visit. National Geographic recently came out with their “cool list” which encompasses 30 places you must visit in 2024!
Below is an account comprised by VALLEY to highlight our favorite places that appear on the “cool list:”
Norland, Norway
Norland, Norway is located in the Northern region and is known for its peaceful life, close-knit community and breathtaking scenery. The Lofoten Islands are a hot commodity for travelers with marvelous attractions such as the Lofoter Viking Museum at Borg and a beautiful straight with one of the strongest tidal currents known as Saltstraumen.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, the heart and capital of Northern Ireland, is something you totally should have on your bucket list of places to go in Europe. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you can tour areas where the show was filmed on the “Giants Causeway Tour” where you can expect sights of castles, villages and Game of Thrones Dark Hedges. If you’re into the city more than the countryside, there are certainly other attractions to visit. Titanic Belfast offers nine galleries and interactive features for a pleasurable day trip.
Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Emilia-Romagna Italy is the sixth ranking of nine providences in Italy. It’s known for its classical medieval cities, beaches, and tasteful food in Italy. The first stop on your trip should be the Piazza Maggiore. It’s the main square in the center of Bologna with an open-air cinema: an idyllic spot to enjoy a film under the stars! It’s certainly an entrancing city with much to offer.
Saimaa, Finland
The Samiaa Lake is located in southeastern Finland and is considered the largest lake in Finland. Lakeland GTE offers an outdoor activity by Lake Samiaa. There are boat-fishing, sightseeing and seal-watching tours for visitors to enjoy. Historically steamships were used in the waters of Samiaa and can be seen next to the harbor in Savonlinna’s market square.
Tainan, Taiwan
Known as the oldest city on the island, this quaint capital is filled with beautiful nooks and crannies you must visit! Some fan favorites include the Anping Fort, which is now a popular museum for tourists and the Chihkan Tower. This gorgeous relic is perfect for photo ops and truly captures the city’s allure. Tainan’s cuisine is another aspect that draws in visitors, their seafood is a can’t-miss opportunity to try in the city.
Andrefana Dry Forests, Madagascar
The dry forests of Madagascar allow for hundreds of species to safely live in these protected sites. According to UNESCO, “Madagascar comprises karstic landscapes and limestone uplands cut into impressive ‘tsingy’ peaks and a ‘forest’ of limestone needles, the spectacular canyon of the Manambolo river, rolling hills and high peaks.” This must-see attraction is nothing short of unique and certainly doesn’t look like your average forest. It’s recommended to designate three days to visit the park.
Have any places you want to add to the “cool list?” Let us know by tweeting us @VALLEYmag on X!
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