Beyond the guidebooks: Travelers reveal destinations that feel like another planet
Top destinations to visit in 2026 (photo: Getty Images)
When planning another vacation, we often get stuck on classic routes. However, experienced travelers know that the real wow effect is hidden where guidebooks about Paris or Prague end.
RBC-Ukraine reports where seasoned Ukrainian travelers who have already seen half the world recommend going, and which locations they call another planet.
Magic of islands and the Atlantic
If we look for the absolute leader by number of mentions in comments from experienced tourists, it is Portugal.
Travelers are impressed by Madeira ("it was really wow") and the Azores. They also recommend visiting Lisbon, Seville, and the legendary Cabo da Roca.
Among other island destinations that make the heart beat faster:
- Tenerife — "an incredible place".
- Iceland and Reykjavik — "just another planet".
- Mauritius, Seychelles (La Digue island), and Cyprus.
- Hawaii — Maui island, Road to Hana, and Haleakala mountain.
Madeira (photo: Wikipedia)
Europe: From Northern Fjords to Italian Glamour
For those seeking both wild nature and cozy charm, travelers recommend northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria) and the Basque Country. Other favorite destinations include:
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Italy: “everything is lovely here,” especially the Dolomites, Sardinia, Rome, Milan, Rapallo, Portofino, and Cinque Terre.
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Scandinavia: Copenhagen in August, summer Stockholm, and Oslo.
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British Isles: London and Ireland.
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France: Marseille, Nice, Biarritz, and Normandy.
Cantabria (photo: Wikipedia)
Exotic horizons and “otherworldly” destinations
If you’re ready for long flights, seasoned travelers recommend radically changing your itinerary:
- Asia: Tokyo, Kyoto, Singapore, Bangkok, the Thai islands, Raja Ampat, Phuket, and Sri Lanka.
- Africa: Cape Town and South Africa (“another planet, go see it already”).
- Americas & Oceania: Chicago, Sydney (Australia), Mexico (caves and cenotes), Argentina, Brazil, and Patagonia.
Raja Ampat (photo: Wikipedia)
Seasonal travel tips and style
Travelers also shared clear guidelines on when and where to go:
- Winter: Egypt is the classic choice.
- Summer: Montenegro, Turkey, Greece (Crete, Elounda, and Halkidiki).
- For those who want it all: Take a cruise – it’s a chance to see several countries in one trip.
Mauritius (photo: Wikipedia)
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Sources: travelers’ comments on Threads (tvarielb, petryk_mariia_d, albina_chaikovska, daryna.maslovska, thesweetspace, tina_aisina, travel_s_nikoi, alinanaboka, dr.mariana_svider, uka.gutsy), Wikipedia.
