Jaw-dropping destinations on everyone’s wish list

While much of the world’s travel plans have screeched to a halt, our minds continue to wander.
Many are eagerly anticipating picking up where their travels left off, while others are planning new adventures. But until the moment is right to explore the world once again, create a wish list on the Booking.com app.

For those in need of some inspiration, we’ve uncovered the destinations around the world that are on our global travelers’ wish lists*.

Cape Town, South Africa

The port city of Cape Town has been a popular destination on our global travelers’ wish lists – and there is much to see and do here. Spend time wandering around the Bo-Kaap neighborhood to marvel at the lines of houses painted in kaleidoscopic colors. Hop onto the vintage Franschhoek Wine Tram and head to some of the oldest and most distinguished wine estates in the Franschhoek Valley – all while enjoying the rolling vineyard scenery. Last, a visit to Boulders Beach will delight all travelers, especially those fond of animals. It’s the only place in the world where you can see colonies of waddling African Penguins in the wild. Whether you choose to stay by the coast or in a colorful abode back in Bo-Kaap, there are endless accommodations available to suit your wish list.

Kyoto, Japan

History and culture enthusiasts are adding Kyoto City to their travel wish lists. This inland city has the greatest concentration of cultural treasures in Japan, so it’s regularly associated with tradition and ancient craftsmanship. It also served as the capital and emperor’s residence from 784 to 1868, with many historical buildings and temples still in pristine condition. On arrival, it can feel like stepping back in time with pairs of elegant geishas in traditional dresses strolling down Hanamikoji Street. In eastern Kyoto, you’ll find the centuries-old, red-orange torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Finish your trip with a night at a traditional wooden Machiya house.

Miami, US

Located in South Florida, Miami is best known for its beaches, parties, and superb weather – and it’s at the top of global travelers’ travel wish lists. South Beach—often thought of as the American Riviera—is where most locals and tourists flock to. It’s an Art Deco playground buzzing with bronzed bodies, world-class restaurants, as well as smaller places to grab a quick beachside bite. It also has a wide range of hotels that would each be the perfect addition to any wish list.

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum—a coastal town on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula—has made its way onto our travelers’ wish lists, and it’s easy to see why. The glassy, turquoise water invites you in for a quick dip, and the pearl-white sand is ideal for drying off under the sun. There are also 13th-century Mayan ruins perched on a cliff-face for visitors to explore. For the animal-lovers, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is close by. It’s a beautiful, natural Unesco World Heritage Site where you’ll find exotic native animals like jaguars, manatees, and hundreds of bird and butterfly species. This tropical oasis also has endless luxury beach accommodations deserving of anyone’s wish list.

Natal, Brazil

Travelers around the world might be stuck at home but many are dreaming of Brazil’s sunny coastline and, in particular, Natal, which is located on Brazil’s northeastern tip. This city is scattered with isolated beaches, mile-high dunes, lagoons, and quiet fishing villages. A visit here promises much more than seaside relaxation, because this city is also famous for its dune buggies. You can cruise the coast in an open-top buggy during the day then head back to your beachfront accommodation for the evening to watch the gentle waves crashing over the sun-kissed sand.

*We looked at the top destinations our global travelers added to their Booking.com Wish Lists since March 2020.