With the hustle and bustle of modern life, it can be hard to find time and money to travel. Luckily, there are still lots of destinations that you can visit without breaking the bank, and before 2022 comes to an end.
If you’re looking to get away on vacation, there are plenty of popular destinations to choose from, which are likely to be brimming with tourists.
If you’re interested in visiting an area that the masses haven’t yet discovered, consider visiting one of these 5 hidden gem destinations in 2022 that you need to visit now before everyone else does.
Belize City, Belize
For many travelers, Belize City is a stopping point en route to local must-sees like Tikal or Xunantunich. But with a new museum and revitalized market square, it’s now worth spending at least one night, if not more.
Hotel Almond Tree has everything you need for a tropical vacation (pool, restaurant, bar), plus comfortable rooms and luxury bathrooms. The hotel’s chefs can whip up an authentic meal of conch ceviche or grilled catch of the day straight from the nearby islands.
Korcula Island, Croatia
This postcard-perfect island, located off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, was ranked by Forbes as a top tourist destination for 2017. But what many travelers may not know is that Korcula Island also offers a wide variety of hidden gems.
There’s something for everyone here, from restaurants serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine to shops and boutiques catering to every style and taste. The area is also home to several cultural sites such as St. Mark’s Church and Korcula Town Hall Square.
Sacramento River Delta, California
Nestled between San Francisco and Stockton, California, lies a river delta that rivals California’s natural splendor. The Sacramento River Delta is a vast expanse of water full of wildlife—about 120 species can be found here, including brown pelicans, dolphins, shorebirds, and migrating salmon.
Many of these creatures make their homes along extensive man-made levees that jut out from each side of the river system. But despite its remote location in northern California, visitors can access Delta delights by traveling just 30 minutes away from San Francisco or 50 minutes from Sacramento.
Getting there involves navigating narrow bridges connecting islands on either side of the expansive waterway; you’ll need a car with four-wheel drive capabilities for much of your trip.
Flores, Guatemala
Just a two-hour flight from Guatemala City, Flores is a must-visit destination for visitors to Guatemala who don’t have a lot of time on their hands. This little town has more than just beauty. It also happens to be one of Central America’s safest destinations.
It offers travelers plenty of things to do—from ziplining above beautiful canyons to exploring some ruins located close by. The peaceful atmosphere will help you forget about your daily troubles and instead allow you to simply focus on enjoying nature.
Seville, Spain
Spain’s fourth-largest city and one of its most historic, Seville, is no longer just a stopover for flamenco dancers and bullfighters.
The cuisine scene has improved dramatically, so stop at tiny La Camareta for five-star tapas such as salt cod on fried chickpeas and potatoes served with fresh fruit (or La Bodega 100 Montaditos for a more casual bite).
Sleep soundly at Seville’s urban hipster hotel, Palacio Zevallos—the lobby showcases art from local talent and serves up cocktails that range from tequila-based to ginger-y.
South Bank Parklands, Australia
The South Bank Parklands is one of Australia’s most exciting and accessible public spaces. The 24-hectare area is centered around a lush riverfront park that stretches two kilometers, connecting seven venues with entertainment, events, shopping, dining, and views of Brisbane’s skyline.
The most popular activities include relaxing at a picnic table, reading by a lily pond, or watching performers on open-air stages. On weekends there are often outdoor movies screened under the stars. And don’t miss Live@SouthBank—nine days each year when all venues host free shows featuring local musicians, street performers, and dance troupes.