As the world continues to adapt and evolve, the allure of travel remains strong. After a period of reflection and reimagining, 2022 presents an opportunity to explore the globe with renewed appreciation and intention. The destinations featured here offer a blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and innovative experiences, promising unforgettable journeys for every type of traveler. Consider this your compass for planning adventures in the year ahead, highlighting flourishing spots that deserve a place on your radar. This article lists the most exciting destinations to explore this year, and guides you where to go in 2022.
Dakar, Senegal: A West African Renaissance
Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal, presents a captivating paradox. It is a city straddling the line between cosmopolitan modernity and a raw, work-in-progress aesthetic, a destination where the ancient traditions of West Africa meet a burgeoning creative scene. This seaside rendezvous pulsates with energy, offering a unique travel experience that stimulates all the senses.
As dusk descends, the beaches come alive with locals engaging in al fresco fitness classes, a testament to Dakar’s embrace of a healthy, active lifestyle. Surf shacks dot the coastline, where international workers and seasoned surfers unwind with cocktails infused with hibiscus tea, locally known as "bissap." The city’s fashion scene is equally dynamic, with Dakar Fashion Week, founded by the visionary designer Adama Ndiaye (Adama Paris), showcasing some of the continent’s most cutting-edge couture.
However, Dakar’s charm lies equally in its imperfections. Gated mansions stand juxtaposed against unfinished dirt roads, where construction workers diligently lay cobblestones using horse-drawn wagons. The air carries the scent of diesel fumes from the city’s ubiquitous jalopy taxis, a reminder of Dakar’s ongoing transformation. A fine, red Saharan dust, called harmattan, blankets everything from acacia leaves to sneakers between November and March, creating a surreal, rusty-hued landscape.
The heart of Dakar lies in its people and their unwavering spirit of "Teranga," the Wolof word for "welcome" or "hospitality." This civic motto permeates the city, shaping the interactions between locals and visitors. It is this spirit of Teranga that has drawn in creative entrepreneurs like the renowned singer Akon, who is spearheading the construction of Akon City, a $6 billion ultra-modern metropolis on the city’s outskirts. While some locals view this ambitious project with skepticism, it is a testament to Dakar’s embrace of innovation and progress.
The artist Kehinde Wiley was so captivated by Dakar during a layover that he established Black Rock, a multidisciplinary artist residence perched on a cliff of volcanic rock. This initiative aims to galvanize the artistic and creative energies flourishing across Africa.
Beyond the modern developments, Dakar’s traditions beckon. The HLM market, located in the eastern part of the city, is a vibrant bazaar overflowing with colorful fabrics. Fashion is deeply ingrained in the local culture, and legions of skilled tailors stand ready to create custom garments on the spot. On Sundays, the surfers who flock to Dakar, drawn by the city’s appearance in the classic film "Endless Summer," make way for sheep and goats being bathed in the Atlantic Ocean. This ritual serves as both grooming and spiritual practice in this predominantly Muslim country.
As night falls, fishermen haul in white grouper (locally called "thiof"), which women grill on the beach for picnicking couples. This delicious seafood is often paired with fonio, an ancient local grain that celebrity chefs are touting as the next quinoa. For a more glamorous dining experience, Seku-Bi, a brand-new boutique hotel in the city center, attracts celebrities like Naomi Campbell. The city’s nightlife scene starts late and goes on until the early morning.
A short ferry ride from the coast lies the Île de Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as a poignant reminder of the past. This deceptively beautiful island was once a major trading post for enslaved people, where they were stockpiled before being forced onto the deadly Middle Passage. The "Door of No Return," a small portal in a cell, offers a powerful glimpse back at Senegal’s shore, the last sight of home for countless Africans. Gazing through this portal at the vibrant cityscape of Dakar today provides a powerful perspective on the city’s journey.
Zurich, Switzerland: A Cosmopolitan Hub Redefined
While Switzerland is renowned for its Alpine landscapes, its cosmopolitan cities offer a compelling counterpoint to the natural beauty. Zurich, the country’s largest city, has transformed from its Roman origins into a global financial center and transit hub. Instead of merely passing through, visitors should immerse themselves in Zurich’s unique offerings.
The Lindt Home of Chocolate, opened in September 2020, is a must-visit for chocolate lovers of all ages. Here, visitors can witness the magic of Swiss milk chocolate production, marvel at a giant chocolate fountain, and indulge in souvenir shopping at the world’s largest Lindt chocolate shop.
Zurich’s artistic scene is equally captivating. Tonhalle Zurich, the city’s renowned concert hall, reopened in September and boasts some of the world’s best acoustics. Nearby, LUX Restaurant & Bar offers lakeside dining with breathtaking views of the Swiss landscape. In the industrial part of the city, Licthalle Maag is Switzerland’s first permanent museum dedicated to immersive exhibitions. The Kunsthaus Zürich, expanded in October, now stands as one of Europe’s premier art museums, housing an impressive collection of Impressionist art, Dada works, and pieces by Alberto Giacometti.
The Zurich Card provides unlimited travel on public transport, free entry to over 40 museums, and discounts at shops and restaurants. Zurich Airport has transformed into a destination, with the Circle complex offering shopping, dining, office space, and two Hyatt hotels.
Panama: An Isthmian Paradise
The isthmus of Panama is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural experiences. With over 1,400 islands, Panama offers an array of paradisiacal destinations. Copa Airlines’ Panama Stopover program allows travelers to explore the country for up to seven days at no additional cost.
Panama is committed to sustainable tourism, encouraging travelers to explore its biodiversity and untapped corners. AdventureNEXT Latin America highlights adventure experiences with positive environmental and social impact. Bocas del Toro hosts the Bocas Invitacional, an international bodyboarding competition and cultural event. The Azul Paradise resort on Bastimentos Island offers secluded water bungalows and an unhurried pace. From May to October, the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is a prime location for whale watching.
Hiking the Camino Real offers a journey through history, while catamaran tours of the San Blas Archipelago promise enchanting island hopping. Santa Fe National Park boasts a multitude of waterfalls. Panama City offers urban attractions, including the Veracruz beach, the nearby Taboga Island, and rooftop pools. The Hotel La Compañía, Casco Antiguo, a living museum, will join Hyatt’s Unbound Collection in March. Seafood dishes at Fonda Lo Que Hay showcase the capital’s foodie scene.
South Korea: A Rising Star in Tourism
With the global popularity of K-pop and Korean dramas, South Korea is poised to become a major tourist destination. Seoul, the capital city, offers a wealth of attractions, while the rest of the nation beckons with its diverse offerings.
Korean cuisine tantalizes the taste buds, while Jeju Island boasts volcanic landscapes and delicious tangerines. Korea’s national parks offer challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery, along with 21 ski resorts. Museums and temples offer insights into the country’s history and culture. The country provides affordable prices, efficient transportation, and welcoming people.
The JW Marriott hotel group expanded its Luxury Collection brand into South Korea with the opening of Josun Palace. Korail debuted a new, eco-friendly high-speed train and launched a new route from Seoul to Andong. The Seoul Tourism Organization expanded its accessible tour bus and van services to foreign residents and tourists. This is where to go in 2022, South Korea is a destination that just keeps getting better and better.
West Virginia: Almost Heaven Found
West Virginia is experiencing a renaissance, gaining recognition for its natural beauty and quality of life. The Ascend West Virginia program offers incentives for remote workers to relocate to the state. The Elk River Trail provides 37 miles of forested trails. The New River Gorge National Park offers camping, fishing, white water rafting, hiking trails, and stunning views.
West Virginia’s culinary scene is thriving, with craft breweries, distilleries, and restaurants like the Vagabond Kitchen offering modern takes on Appalachian fare. Historical sites like John Brown’s Fort at Harper’s Ferry National Park and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum offer glimpses into the state’s past. The state’s vibrant arts scene is showcased at Tamarack Marketplace. The Greenbrier Resort offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views. The Schoolhouse, a fully-accessible hotel, is scheduled to open in White Sulphur Springs.
Qatar: A World Cup Stage and Artistic Hub
Qatar is experiencing rapid growth and development as it prepares to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The country’s infrastructure is expanding, with world-class stadiums designed by renowned architects.
Qatar has invested heavily in world-class museums, including the I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art, and public art installations. Mshereib is emerging as the city’s trendiest quarter, with M7 hosting design exhibitions. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel offers luxurious accommodations, while the Souq Waqif Hotel Qatar by Tivoli provides an intimate experience. Traditional machboos rice dishes can be found at local restaurants, while Jiwan offers Qatari fusion cuisine with city views. New hotels, including the Fairmont Hotel, Raffles Hotel & Residences, and Rosewood Hotel Lusail, are opening in preparation for the influx of visitors.
New Zealand: Awaits Reopening
After extended border closures, New Zealand is tentatively planning to reopen to international visitors. With high vaccination rates and mask mandates, vaccinated travelers can expect a low-risk travel experience.
The North Island offers vibrant cities like Wellington and Auckland, along with popular destinations like Waitomo and Rotorua. The Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangarei is a new museum showcasing the work of Austrian-born New Zealand artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The South Island is ideal for nature lovers, with the Southern Alps providing rivers, glaciers, ski fields, hiking trails, and stunning views. The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track in Southland/Fiordland is on the path to becoming one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Queenstown offers relaxation and adventure, with the Hulbert House Boutique Hotel providing understated luxury.
If New Zealand has been on your bucket list for years, where to go in 2022 is New Zealand. This is where to go in 2022!
