Pristine beaches and grandeur views: these offbeat international destinations deserve a visit in 2024

‘To travel is to live’ 

Well, we couldn’t agree more with Danish author Hans Christian Anderson. There’s no greater joy than heading to a new country and getting acquainted with its culture. From noshing on local delicacies to meeting interesting people and going back in time through historic structures—there’s always so much to learn and do! 

Sometimes, it may be scary to leave behind the familiar—but the thrill of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and exploring the unexplored offers a rush like no other. It also makes one richer in experiences! 

While the world is your oyster, it may leave your mind in a tizzy regarding where to begin. YS Life has curated a list of offbeat international destinations to explore in 2024 that are anything but ordinary! 

Grenada, Caribbean 

Unlike many other island nations, Grenada continues to be pristine and untouched by consumerism even today. Referred to as ‘The Spice Isle’, there’s so much to explore here than just the white sandy beaches. For those who’d like to push boundaries and indulge in adventure, there are 60 dive sites and 15 waterfalls to visit. 

Grenada’s capital, St George’s is a charming town with a national museum and a market where you can shop for some aromatic spices. One can go a step further and sign up for estate tours on offer, where spices like nutmegs, cloves, cinnamon are grown and harvested.

Interestingly, Grenada earned the title of the world’s first culinary capital by the World Food Travel Association in 2021. It’s almost a sin to leave Grenada without tasting their national dish, often known as ‘oil down’ that has generous amounts of chicken, pigtails, vegetable and dumpling stew. 

Another sight on the discerning traveller’s bucket list should be Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve. It is home to four of Grenada’s highest mountains–Southeast Mountain, Mount Sinai, Mount Qua Qua, as well as the unnamed peak. Also, a Grand Etang Lake within its premises is a consequence of volcanic activity. 

Best time to visit: January to May 

Cartagena, Colombia

Another unexplored destination that must feature on the itinerary of travellers is Cartagena, a colonial port city in Colombia. 

The town has a rich history, since it was the centre of power for the Spanish empire in the 16th century. Owing to its reputation as a flourishing hub for trade, Cartagena attracted people from all parts of the world, including traders from Europe and Middle Eastern immigrants. 

Make a stop at Old Town to catch a glimpse of some of the most beautiful mansions, with Colombian flags fluttering above. Even today, one will find high walled structures here that were built by Spanish colonists. It’s interesting to witness a melange of cultures, with traditional structures co-existing with modern hotels, art galleries and museums. 

One of the most interesting sights on this street is Palacio de la Inquisición that has a collection of devices that were once used to convince heretics and witches to give a confession.

No visit to Colombia is complete without indulging in its local brews. The country is one of the world’s biggest coffee producers, so it’s a given to have a generous fill or more! 

Where should one go? Getsemani–a neighbourhood that has plenty of cafes for a much-needed caffeine kick. Sip on good old hot coffee or else the cold brew; pack some beans for your friends and family. 

Best time to visit: December to March 

Tallinn, Estonia 

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn is a wonderland that weaves in the old and the new. 

The best way to explore this town is by foot, so get set to wear sturdy sneakers and gallivant around. At first glance, Tallinn will charm you with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets. An eclectic restaurant and bar scene is also a must-visit! 

Start the itinerary with a stop at the Old Town that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site way back in 1997. This street has mediaeval churches and old mansions and warehouses that go back in time to the Middle Ages. 

Tallinn is also a treat for art aficionados—there’s Kumu Art Museum that’s a part of the main building of the Art Museum of Estonia. This cultural centre preserves Estonian art from the 18th century and frequently hosts exhibitions that showcase contemporary art. That’s not all—the city has many more prominent art institutions, including Kadriorg Art Museum for early European and Russian art and Fotografiska for photography. 

Another stop on the list is the Noblessner district, a shipyard that has now been converted into a hip commercial space with restaurants, shops and swanky cafes. 

Best time to visit: May to July

Al-’Ula, Saudi Arabia

It may come as a surprise but Al-’Ula in Saudi Arabia deserves to be a part of every traveller’s list in 2024. The destination recently shot into the limelight, with Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Dunki being shot here. The vast expanse of rolling sand dotted with tall sandstone cliffs that are carved into a dizzying variety of shapes and forms are nothing short of a visual marvel.

This town is home to Hegra, a 2,000-year-old archeological site that has towering tombs that have been carved by the Nabataean civilisation, which is known for Petra in Jordan. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb up to Harrat, the volcanic hill to get a bird’s eye view of Al-’Ula.

The Jebel Khuraibah peaks and the fortress are also worth a visit. Once a part of the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lihyan, this architectural marvel has a series of rock-cut tombs at the foot of the peaks. The most prominent one is the Lion Tomb–depicting two lions on either side of its entrance. 

Want to view Al-’Ula in all its glory? Head to the Winter Park and go for a hot air balloon ride at 1,200 metres up in the air. 

Best time to visit: October to April

Faroe Islands, Denmark 

Located in the northeast Atlantic halfway between Scotland and Iceland, the beauty of Faroe Islands in Denmark can’t be expressed in words. The strikingly dramatic landscapes will convince one to bring out their adventurous side, making their adrenaline shoot up and how!

There is an abundance of rugged coastlines, so one can explore the islands by boat and dive deep into its mystique. There are 18 volcanic islands that are scattered in the deep sea ocean—a kayaking, surfing, or a snorkelling adventure must definitely be planned! 

For history buffs, a stroll around its capital city Tórshavn is a must. Everything from the Prime Minister’s Office, the House of Parliament, and the Tórshavn Cathedral must be on the list!

Best time to visit: June to August

(All images are sourced from Shutterstock)