When it comes to planning a trip, there really is no time to waste. It's better to think in advance, especially with all the new countries easing up on visas to Filipinos. That said, we've put together a list of visa-free travel destinations that are off the beaten path. From tropical paradises to stunning architecture, here are the best visa-free, under-the-radar travel destinations for 2020.
1| Almaty, Kazakhstan
The recently-made visa-free Kazakhstan's capital Almaty is a gorgeous mix of urban and nature. And, we're not even exaggerating. The nearest parks and nature attractions are less than an hour away or less. While the city proper has a lot to offer, starting with interesting Soviet-era architecture. No matter what time of the year you visit, you'll definitely have plenty to see and do.
2| Vanua Levu, Fiji
The second-largest island of Fiji, Vanua Levu, has often been called the best-kept secret in this part of the world. If it looks familiar, then you probably have seen it as Survivor's filming location. The reality competition television franchise has had eight seasons set in the country, with most set in Vanua Levu. The island pretty affordable too, compared to similar destinations: hotels start at P4,800 and go all the way up to P57,000.
3| Doha, Qatar
You may be wondering 'Doha, really? What's there to do in Doha?' But, what you should really be asking is what can't you do. The capital of Qatar is filled with attractions such as dune bashing, souqs, I.M. Pei-designed architecture, art installations, and more. Not to mention, the city is full of history in the form of ancient forts.
4| Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Don't let your preconceived perception about Rwanda deter you from going. Today, it's one of Africa's fastest-growing economies, and according to travelers, it feels as safe as Switzerland. Make the Volcanoes National Park the star of your trip. The national park covers 160 square kilometers of rainforest, and is home to the mountain gorilla and golden monkey.
5| Bagan, Myanmar
Cappadocia is the most famous destination when it comes to hot-air balloon spots. But, Myanmar's Bagan definitely doesn't pale in comparison. You can see Not only will you get to see hot air balloons rise in the morning, you'll also be able to visit the many temples, pagodas, and monuments throughout the city.
6| Huacachina, Peru
Machu Picchu gets all the tourist's attention in Peru, but for an otherworldly experience, there's Huacachina. The tiny village located in the city of Ica is a desert oasis that looks like something out of a dream. There, you can take a boat around the oasis. At night, you can relax at the many hostels and wineries. The dunes also offer a lot to do including dune buggy tours, sandboarding, bodyboarding, and more.
7| Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania
Selous Game Reserve is one of the more under-the-radar national parks in Tanzania. It's four times the size of the Serengeti, and is infinitely wilder with over 55,000 square kilometers of untouched area. Choose Selous if you want to be away from the crowds, and if you want a more unique safari experience.
8| Cartagena, Colombia
It really doesn't get as picturesque as Colombia. If you want the full picturesque Colombian experience, Cartagena is the only way to go. The port city has it all: vibrant architecture, sandy beaches, historic old towns, and fresh seafood.
9| Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
It's hard to choose a destination in the Caribbean. One of the best places to start would be with Kingstown. As the capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, it has a bit of everything from cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and plenty of nature. You'll never run out of attractions to see and things to do.
10| Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
If seeing where Game of Thrones was filmed is part of your bucket list, put Croatia on hold and start with visa-free Morocco. Aït Benhaddou was the setting for Yunkai in the HBO show. Take a desert safari and put the fortified village in your itinerary.
