1. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Go for the archery, stay for all the nomadic traditions.
Surrounded by breathtaking Bogd Khan mountains, Ulaanbaatar is a unique destination with legendary nomadic traditions. During the summer experience exciting archery displays, horse racing, live performances and more at the annual Naadam Festival. Or take a trekking tour at Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which includes hiking, horseback riding, and yak cart trekking. You can even stay in a traditional ger (yurt)!
To mindfully immerse yourself in Mongolian traditions, head to Sukhbaatar Square in the heart of the city. There, enjoy celebrations, outdoor concerts and authentic food. Then, take a tour of the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about eons of civilizations and history that comprise Mongolia’s ancient past.
2. Nuuk, Greenland
Go for the fjords, stay for the humpback whales.
Nuuk is an Arctic gem, set apart by its warm, tight-knit community and a culture that revolves around sustainability. It’s the perfect destination for eco-tourists, nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
3. Madeira, Portugal
Go for the remote work opportunities, stay for the island hopping.
Maderia’s four islands, just off the northwest coast of Africa, are full of natural beauty so striking it’s hard to believe it’s real. Expats from around the globe are flocking here to check out the official Digital Nomad Village in Ponta do Sol, a community designed to support remote workers as full-time residents of the island. But anyone can benefit from the resources offered on the island—like free coworking spaces, internet and community events in Funchal. So, if you have a flexible job make this tropical paradise your home for the summer in 2025.
4. Faro, Portugal
Go for the protected parks and wildlife, stay for the quaint coastal town.
As Lisbon and Porto have risen to recent fame, their southern sister Faro has refined itself into a picturesque coastal town. Faro is home to Parque Natural da Ria Formosa (Ria Formosa Natural Park), a protected wonder where visitors can take a lagoon boat tour to see endangered species, salt marshes and diverse birdlife. The town is also the perfect starting point to explore the rest of the Algarve coast’s natural wonders, like Marinha Beach and the Benagil Caves.
5. Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Go for the street food, stay for the lucky art.
Taiwan’s second-largest city, Kaohsiung, is brimming with expressive art and culture. Pier-2 Art Center presents large-scale, interactive art installations and contemporary exhibits. The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond house a series of traditional Chinese art within the ornate ruby and yellow temples. Make sure to enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit the tiger’s mouth for good luck.
6. Dakar, Senegal
Go for the art, stay for the history.
A city where desert meets ocean, Dakar is deeply rooted in artisanal traditions and expression. Popular local art includes sand and glass painting. Visit the Musée des Civilisations Noiress (Museum of Black Civilizations) to see them both. Its collection of over 9,000 objects highlights the history and creative expressions of Africans—from ancient traditions to contemporary art, music and film.
7. Palermo, Italy
Go for the Michelin stars, stay for the architectural wonders.
Sicily remains a culinary treasure, with 23 restaurants with Michelin stars. And as Sicily’s capital, Palermo offers a window into the area’s rich history and gastronomy. Whether it’s the street vendors along the bustling Ballarò Market or fine dining at MEC Restaurant, this city is a food lovers paradise.
8. Bilbao, Spain
Go for the Guggenheim, stay for the Basque food scene.
Many call Bilbao the “City of the Guggenheim,” and credit the museum with helping the city become internationally recognized. However, Bilbao is not just one museum. Urban renewable projects have revitalized Bilbao into a haven of wide sidewalks and green spaces, making it one of Europe’s most pedestrian-friendly cities. See what it’s like to have every attraction be just a walk away.
9. Nice, France
Go for the beaches, stay for the world’s oldest Jazz Festival.
Paris’s southern little sister, Nice is often considered “the jewel of the French Riviera”, hidden away on rocky Mediterranean shores. Take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, passing luxurious beach clubs, famous hotels and stunning seaside restaurants. It’s easy to see why this town has a history of attracting famous artists like Picasso. But there’s more to discover than just oceans views and beaches.
10. Marrakesh, Morocco
Go for the souks, stay for the hidden desert gems.
Have you ever seen a city glow at sunset? You will in Marrakesh. Nicknamed the “Red City” for its signature red-clay walls, this is a true paradise for architecture buffs. But the glowing sandstone and intricate tilework of landmarks like the Bahia Palace are just the beginning of what this city has to offer.
