Exploring the Greek island of Santorini, which is one of the 27 best places to go in 2020.

Where are you headed in 2020? Given that were on the verge of not just a new year but a new decade, this is the time to go bigand travel farin 2020. To help fuel your wanderlust, we tapped into a handful of travel experts and influencers tofind out the places that they have on their radars for 2020. Their choices for where to go in 2020 range from a pair of dreamy Greek Islands to an African country redefining adventure travel to a Japanese mountain town where old meets new. Compare these to the best destinations that the experts picked for 2019 (how many did you check off your bucket list?). I also opened my own little black book to give a sneak peek at what Im most excited about around the world for 2020. You're definitely going to want to put thesespots on your travel wish list, too.

For those of you who want to stay closer to home, check out last years U.S. roundup,"Where To Go Next: 14 Best Places To Travel In The US In 2019," and keep an eye on this column. This week, I will be publishing the best places to go in the U.S. in 2020.

And heres the thing: No matter whether you decide to travel, whether you go near or far, the most important thing is to get out there and explore and discover. As the writer Hans Christian Andersen once said, To travel is to live.

Lexie Alfordthe youngest person to travel to every countryin Egypt.

Where: Egypt

Chosen By: At the age of21, LexieAlfordbecame the youngest person to travel to every country on earth and broke theGuinness World Record. Follow her on Instagram (@LexieLimitless) and read more about her accomplishment here.

Why: After traveling to every country in the world, Egypt is one of the countries that I would consider one of the most underrated. Egypt harbors such immense, well-preserved history and a unique culture that can only be discovered in this forgotten corner of North Africa. The country is finally beginning to receive the recognition it deserves after being named the worlds fastest-growing travel destination by the World Tourism Organization. In 2020, the Grand Egyptian Museumthe largest archaeological museum in the worldwill open to the public and the exhibits will include thousands of ancient Egyptian artifacts that have never been seen before. The best way to discover everything this astonishing country has to offer is by taking a Nile River cruise with Abercrombie & Kent.

Let's raise a glass to amazing travels in 2020. PIctured here: Greece, which experts say should be ... [+] on your list for 2020.

Where: The Greek Islands

Chosen by: Becca Ingle is an avid family travel blogger. She is the founder ofBeccaIngle.com, where you can read all her travel guides. Follow her on Instagram (@Beccaingle) to see the behind the scenes of each trip.

Why: The Greek Islands are the latest hot spot for avid travelers.Take a flight directly into Santorini and be whisked into the magical white and blue architecture of Oia.Make sure to book one of the Blue Dome Cavehouse Rentals overlooking the water to see amazing sunset views.For 2020, the Santorini Council has made plans for new roads and parking areas to make the town more accessible.Several new hotels are opening, including Eco Hotels and Oias Saint Santorini.Rent ATVs from Vazeos for the day to explore the entire island by buggy or plan a day of wine tasting by stopping by the beautiful Santos Winery, Gavalas Winery and Venesantos winery. Walk the narrow streets at night and have a private dining experience at Canavas Oia Suites Panaroma Balconybut be sure to book this at least six months in advance. Plan a day of yachting around the Aegean sea with Explorer 1 and stop at the famous red beach in Akrotiri and have a sunset dinner cooked on board.

To continue exploring the Greek Islands, book a ticket with Seajets to take a two-hour ferry ride over to Mykonos Islands.Seajets has added 17 ships to its fleet for 2020 and is the largest high-speed fleet of the Aegean.Once in Mykonos, stay in a beautiful rental, The Villa Astra, within walking distance to Mykonos town.You can find several other rental options through Kid & Coe, which makes it much easier to find accommodations with family amenities. If you want to stay in one of the newest hotels developed this year by Myconian Collection Resort, book a room at its new Panoptis Escape.Easily find available ATVs and four-wheelers for rent on any nearby street to explore the island and hop around to the popular beach clubs.Reserve beach chairs at Nammos in the morning, then scoot over to Scorpios for dinner and a sunset ritual experience.Mykonos plans to add a few more restaurants overlooking the water in the main area next year, but dont miss the infamous cobbled-street restaurant, Kastroswhich youve surely seen all over social media.

Singitas new Kwitonda Lodge, set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Where:Rwanda

Chosen by:Natalie DiScala is a writer and editor atJohnnyJet.com, covering travel trends, products and family travel.

Why: If youre looking for a destination that will take you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of nature, consider Rwanda. Gorilla tourism is alive and well in Rwanda and remains the biggest draw for visitors to the region. As Rwanda becomes increasingly more popular, it has also become known as a luxury safari destination, much like Kenya and Tanzania, its eastern neighbors. Travelers to Rwanda will likely fly into the countrys capital Kigali, a vibrant and exciting city. From there, journey to one (or more!) of the many luxury lodges that await to please and pamper in between gorilla treks. Travel northeast from Kigali to Wilderness Safaris newMagashilodge in Akagera National Park for game drives to see the Big Five. Singitas newKwitonda Lodgeis set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park and One & Onlys much-anticipatedGorillas Nestlodge, located in a lush, fragrant eucalyptus forest, just opened in the region. One & OnlysNyungwe Houserounds out the safari experiencethere, guides take guests to the protected jungle in surrounding Nyungwe National Park to spy troops of colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.Micato Safariscan string all of these experiences together (the companys knowledge of the region and attention to detail make it second to none). But even more important than that is the fact that Micato educates an African child all the way through secondary school for every safari it sells through itsOne for Onecommitment.

Beachside in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the first World Capital of Architecture for 2020.

Where: Brazil

Chosen by: Katie Jackson is a Montana-based travel writer whose work has been published byTravel & Leisure, USA TODAY, Fox NewsandThe Sunday Times. Every trip she takes is an investment, and she likes to pay the rewards forward by helping other travelers. You can follow her adventures (and misadventures) onInstagram.

Why: This time last year Americans needed a visa to visit Brazil. Now, since the governmentlifted its visa requirements in June, all we need is a valid passport and our thongs (flip flops and/or bathing suits). Not only is it easier than ever to visit Brazils 2,000+ beaches, but its also more affordable. The Brazilian real reached an all-time high in November, so the U.S. dollar is going further than ever. If the idea of exploring South Americas largest countryand the worlds most biologically diverseis intimidating, consider going withNaya Traveler. The travel outfitter works with the best local guides everywhere, from the Amazon rainforest to Rio de Janeiro. Speaking of Rio, UNESCO selected the Marvelous City as the firstWorld Capital of Architecture for 2020. Expect Rio to be celebrating with special events all year. And thats in addition to hosting the worlds largest party, Carnival, and in November, the Brazilian Grand Prix. To catch all of the city center action and still be within walking distance of Copacabana Beach, stay at theJW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro. Its rooftop pool boasts spectacular views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Arches and temple in Gadi Sagar lake at sunset sky in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

Where: Jaisalmer, India

Chosen By: Teddy Minford spent her childhood in Europe before moving to Sun Valley, Idaho. She now lives in New York, where shes always planning her next trip. When shes not writing and editing for Fodors, you can usually find her reading a book.

Why: A remote desert location, fairytale architecture and incredible hotels make Jaisalmer the destination of your wildest dreamsthats why it earned a top spot on Fodors 2020 Go List. Known as Indias Golden City, Jaisalmer sits on the outskirts of the vast Thar Desert, which stretches all the way to Pakistan. The ancient city is anchored by a massive sandstone fort with maze-like alleys and markets that will thrill curious travelers in search of eclectic one-of-a-kind souvenirs, while adventurers will want to plan a safari in the Sam Sand Dunes to experience the epic scenery of this ethereal landscape. Nachana Haveli, a Heritage Hotel, lets travelers live inside their own version of Jaisalmers famous Patwon-ki Haveli(a cluster of interconnected and elaborately decorated historical mansions) while Sujan The Serai takes glamping to another level with 5-star tented suites situated in a 100-acre private oasis outside of the city.

Colorful contrasts in Cape Townthe Bo Kaap Malay quarter with Table Mountain in the background.

Where: Cape Town, South Africa

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year. She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourneys Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: Most pilgrimages to the Rainbow Nation begin inCape Town, a progressive, colorful mlange of culture, nature, and music, gracing the cusp of Africa. The past is present in the future at renownedRobben Island, where former president Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 27 years. Weekends are reserved for multi-sensory experiences feasting on global and traditional fare atThe Old Biscuit Mill. Cape Towns downtown is concentrated in the City Bowl neighborhood, with venues such as Green Market Square, housing an eclectic African souvenir market. There is also the illustrious Long Street, lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and quirky yet luxurious accommodations such asThe Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel with seven vintage trailers parked on the roof. Cape Town is also home to some of the worlds most pristine beaches, phenomenal for people watching, or catching a lekker (South African lingo for cool) wave. The newly renovatedCape View Cliftonhotel has iconic views from private balconies of theTwelve Apostles MountainRange, silhouetting the temperamental Atlantic below.

Traveling as a family to Cape Town is even easier come 2020: Minors visiting the destination will no longer need to provide Unabridged Birth Certificates or consent letters when accompanied by parents and carrying valid passports. This makes it easier to joll (party) in this vibrant city crowned by theemblematic Table Mountain.

Magical Lake Bled in Slovenia, one of the hottest places to go in 2020.

Where: Slovenia

Chosen by: Stefanie Michaels, the CEO ofAdventureGirl.com, is a TV personality, having appeared on every major network in the U.S. and with features in People and Time Magazines, to name a few. A Vanity Fair feature named Michaels America's Tweetheart for being the first travel brand to reach over 1 million followers. Find her at @adventuregirl on all social platforms.

Why: Slovenia may be in the news over its border dispute with Croatia, but its a perfect place to explore. This beautiful former part of Yugoslavia is a country mixed with adventures from the sea to a mountainous part of the country dotted with old world towns. Plus, its not on the euro, making it an affordable destination option for 2020.

The Shinkyo bridge in Nikko, Japanone of the best places to visit in 2020.

Where: Nikko, Japan

Chosen by: Chicago-based freelance writer Elaine Glusac contributes regularly to The New York Times, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR and other publications. She was recently named the 2019 Travel Writer of the Year by the Society of American Travel Writers. Follow her on Instagram @eglusac.

Why: Japan will get a lot of attention in 2020 because of the Olympic Games in Tokyo, which will be spectacular. Theres so much to do in Tokyo, but it will get very crowded during the Games. Fortunately, Japan offers so much variety outside its capital. An easy escape is Nikko, less than two hours north by train.

In the Nikko area, you get a broad swath of history as well as a beautiful natural setting. The town and nearby Lake Chuzenji are part of a national park that is well preserved, with scores of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Keep your eye peeled while driving up to the lake from the downtown area for monkeys on the side of the road and beautiful foliage. As one of the earliest places where Buddhism was established, there are temples aplenty to visit. Youll also want to go for a hike around the lake and relax in one of the hot springs. Luxury hotel Nikko Fufu will open in 2020, and each room will come with its own hot spring. The atmospheric Nikko Kanaya Hotel, which dates back to 1893, has a wonderfully small, intimate bar with dozens of whiskeys. And opening in May 2020, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, set along the stunning Lake Chuzenji, will be a prime spot to hike over to Kegon Falls, a spectacular and thundering waterfall that everyone should see. Nikko is the perfect place to get away from the mayhem of Tokyo during the 2020 Summer Games and commune with the Japanese love of nature and some of the ancient spirituality practices.

In British Columbia, Canada, overlooking Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valleyone of the top places ... [+] to go in 2020.

Where: British Columbia, Canada

Chosen by: Jillian Dara is a freelance travel journalist with a focus on food, wine and culture. Her work has appeared in international and national outlets including, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guide, DuJour and Hemispheres. Dara credits her passion for travel to her upbringing on the island of Bermuda, which inspired her to work and live in London, Santiago, Boston and New York City.

Why: Descending over cerulean lakes and endless pine forests, Kelowna welcomes you to a lesser known landscape of British Columbiaone where neatly stacked vineyards line the mountainsides that plunge into the glacially-fed basin below. This is the Okanagan Valley, informally referred to as Canadas wine country. Thirty years ago, the first vine was planted which put the Okanagan Valley on the map, and perhaps thats what makes this corner of Canada so special; its wines dont have hundreds of years of history, but rather the region is in the midst of writing its own history.

A trip to the Valley wouldnt be complete without familiarizing oneself with the wineries of Von Mandl Family Estate. With Mission Hill Winery as one of the oldest wineries in the region, proprietor Anthony Von Mandl leads by example with his commitment to organic farming and innovative winemaking techniques that allow for a grapes natural characteristics to shine (like the 100 percent gravity-fed Martins Lane Winery). The region also embraces the style of farm-to-table dining, relying on local suppliers for everything from charcuterie and cheese boards to fresh fish dishes. In downtown Kelowna, restaurants like Waterfront, Oak + Cru and RauDZ showcase regional and seasonal ingredients alongside local wines, while Micro Bar & Bites offers an alternative menu for craft cocktails and international tapas.

Outside of city limits, many wineries offer their own spin on Pacific Northwest cuisine, like Terrafina restaurant at Hesters Creek as well as Von Mandls seasonal restaurant Terrace at Mission Hill Estate and his latest opening of Home Block, a year-round restaurant at CedarCreek Estate winery. Stay at Delta Hotels or the Royal Kelowna and youll be at the center of the regions best food and wine offerings.

Lexie Alfordthe youngest person to travel to every countryin Abu Dhabi.

Where: United Arab Emirates

Chosen By: At the age of21, LexieAlfordbecame the youngest person to travel to every country on earth and broke theGuinness World Record. Follow her on Instagram (@LexieLimitless) and read more about her accomplishment here.

Why: The United Arab Emirates is the destination where luxury meets the future. Dubai is home to not only the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, but also the largest artificial islands in the world, the Palm Islands. The nearby capital city, Abu Dhabi, welcomes visitors to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques ever created. This year will be a particularly special time to visit the UAE since the Expo 2020 will be held between the two cities, making it the first World Expo held in the Middle East. The theme of the event is Connecting Minds, Creating the Future and over 130 countries will be participating in the pavilions and events. Event organizers predict that anywhere from 25 to 100 million travelers from around the world will be visiting from October 20, 2020 and April 10, 2021, so be sure to mark it on your calendar.

The rooftop lounge at Mama Shelter in Lille, France.

Where: Lille, France

Chosen by: Sarah Souliis a freelance journalist based in Athens, Greece. Her travel writing has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Roads & Kingdoms, and more. She is the author ofMoon Guides: Athens and the Greek Islands. Follow her onInstagramandTwitter.

Why: Cold, gray, and full of potatoes, goes the stereotype of Lille. How unfair! This northern French city is actually one of the most charming in the country, with a brimmingjoie de vivreand a booming arts scene. The most in-the-know crowd is already aware of Lilles growing reputation; it was recently crowned the 2020 World Capital of Design. Check into the newly opened, boho-chicMama Shelter Lillethe ideal base for exploring Lille, and home to the citys best brunch. Gorgeous museums like La Piscine and LaM will give you a good artistic overview of the city, while new restaurants (such as Coke and Big Mama) and shops will keep you full and happy. Expect plenty of shows, performances, workshops, art installations, and more, to coincide with Lilles new design crown.

Les Ilets de la Plage on St. Bart's.

Where: St. Barts

Chosen By: Marie Speed is the group editor of JES Publications, includingBoca Raton, Delray Beach, Worth Avenue and Mizners Dream. She also oversees editorial operations of the companys Salt Lake City magazines.

Why: St.Bartshas long had the reputation of an exclusive luxury playground for the high-end European tourists; the wintertime province of rock stars and mega moguls; a place of designer shops, aquamarine waters, quaint villages and five-star hotelsall in the context of an understated and elegant island a few hours plane ride from the US to the French West Indies.The islandwith mountains rising from the sealooks almost Polynesian from the air; and its main city, Gustavia, on its west coast, overlooks a sparkling harbor full of sailboats and super yachts. There are other towns dotting the island, and at only nine square miles, you can see them all in a couple of hours by car.

Two years after a devastating hurricane caused $1.4 billion in losses on the island, St. Barts is on the rebound, with hotels like Eden Rock, Le Sereno St. Barth, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France and the Hotel Barrire Le Carl Gustafrecently reopened and more (like Le Guanahani) set for 2020. On a recent visit, I opted for the more understated Les lets de la Plage, a longtime family-owned hotel (now managed by an all-woman team) directly on St. Jean Bay. The Dutch Colonial charm of this cottage colony is tempered by contemporary amenities; each beach villa has a terrace overlooking the bay, and a box of fresh pastries is delivered to your door every morning. The advantage of this island spot for me was that it felt like it belonged here; there was a comfortable (albeit luxurious) authenticity in its simplicity.

And thats the other thing about St.Bartseven a modest beachfront caf has fine wine and exquisite entrees. The island has its food staples either sourced locally from nearby islands or flown in directly from France five times a week. And it is worlds away from our sun-soaked Margaritavilles to a place with an exotic geography, a European lineage and avery French aesthetic.

Dining on the sand at Anantara Desaru Coast Malaysia

Where: Malaysia

Chosen by: Melissa Klurmanis a travel expert, writer and editor and contributor atReaders Digest, Frommers Travel GuidesandParents,among other publications.

Why: Bask in the sun at Malaysias Desaru Coast, a spectacular, previously under-the-radar beach resort set on the golden shores of the South China Sea. Its just a 45-minute drive or boat ride from Singapore, so its easy to combine some R&R time along with a stay in the cosmopolitan city without having to book an additional flight. Another plus: Luxury resort groupAnantarais opening a new property in Desaru for 2020, sure to make the area a must visit in the new year. The resort has sleek rooms, chic villas, and family-friendly residences right on the sparkling sea, plus artisanal and cultural offerings including Malaysian culinary classes at the onsite Spice Spoons cooking school.

The skyline of Muscat, Oman.

Where: Oman

Chosen by: Dylan Essertier is a writer, speaker, and the Founder & CEO of Dylan Grace. Dylans travel expertise has been featured in WSJ Magazine, Vogue, Conde Nast Traveler, Departures, and more. Sign up for free weekly travel tips via her website and follow her around the world on Instagram.

Why: On the Middle East travel circuit, Oman is often overshadowed by its superlative-richneighbor, Dubai. The upside of Omans lower profile is that it offers travelers a mesmerizing blend of contemporary and ancient Arabia. Think: unspoiled emerald-hued fjords, bustling souks, spellbinding sandscapes, 17th century forts and pristine waters dotted with dolphins. There are currently a handful of top-tier accommodations to enjoy as well, with brands such as Alila, Ritz-Carlton, Shangri-La and Anantara offering high-end amenities, such as sleek infinity pools and world-class spas. Look out for the new Jumeirah Muscat Bay, a sprawling property slated to open this year which is certain to shine a spotlight on Oman. My advice: Book now before everyone else catches on to this remote, Frankincense-scented haven.

The old town of Porto, Portugal on the Douro River.

Where: Portugal

Chosen by:Eileen Ogintz is a leading national travel expert and syndicated columnist of the weekly column Taking the Kids and the creator ofTakingthekids.com.

Why: Its no secret that travelers want to take a deeper dive into places they are visiting, getting off the tourist track so they enjoy local music, food, and attractions. They also are seeking less touristed areas and want bragging rights to be the first to visit new or undiscovered places.

Such is the case with Portugal, which secured three out of five ofVrbos top international beach destinationsfor U.S. travelers. Though not undiscovered, it is certainly less touristed, less crowded, and more affordable than other European destinations.

One of the main reasons to visit Porto is to sample port wine, as well as just-out-of-the water Portuguese seafood and the delicious Pastel de Nata custard tarts. Ever since the 17th century, Vila Nova de Gaia has been the center of port production. There are many options for tastings at the Lodges here. The riverfront Cais da Ribeira is spectacular with the pastel-colored houses chock a block up the hills, flat-bottomed boats going back and forth and the amazing fish cooked up outside tiny restaurants. Increasingly popular river cruises through the Douro Valley leave from Porto and many people take a few days first to explore this wonderful city.

Many travelers start their Portugal journey in Lisbon with its Roman and Moorish ruins, cathedrals and big plazas. But like Porto, the real fun here is to get lost in the Alfama, Lisbons old town, wandering the streets, taking a tram, listening to traditional and modern fado singers in hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Just outside Lisbon are fantastic beaches and perhaps Portugals top tourist site, Sintra with its fairytale castle and extensive woodlands with trees that were brought from around the world.

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes in Paparoa National Park on the South Island of New Zealand.

Where: New Zealand

Chosen By:Ali Wundermanis a travel writer, guidebook author and wildlife photographer. Her work has appeared in TIME Magazine, Cond Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet. Originallyfrom San Francisco, Wunderman is now based in Montana.

Why: New Zealand has long been on the bucket list for adventure travelers, fueling the country's growth as an ideal destination for everyone. Despite the long distance, it's getting easier to reach New Zealand from the U.S., with new direct flights coming in late 2020. Air New Zealand will add a flight from New York, while American Airlines is adding Dallas to the roster, on top of the first ever direct flight to New Zealand's South Island, which will go from Los Angeles to Christchurch. While New Zealand is still the perfect place for backpackers and vanlifers to explore, the country's high-end offerings are strong, includingThe Elms on Lake Hayes, a$6,000-per-night ultimate luxury adventure resort made even better by the opening of their new villas.

Even the ice cream is extra special here, my favorite of which is the whimsical and innovativeGiapoin Auckland, which is always introducing new creations. Speaking of Auckland, more than 10 new hotels are coming to the country's biggest city, offering a wide range of options for every type of traveler. Outdoor enthusiasts can still expect new sights when they visit, particularly along thecountrys first Great Walk trail to open in more than 25 years. Tracing the Pororari River along the west coast of the South Island, the new Paparoa Track winds through Paparoa National Park, a reserve largely inaccessible until now.

Writer Olivia Balsinger in Croatia.

Where: Croatia

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year." She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourney's Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: It seems as though the entire past decade has beenCroatias year. With balmy, rugged beaches and sapphire seawater adjacent to towering ancient walls that store the tales of time, how could Croatia not top every travelers list? Well, the country officially deserves the spotlight in 2020, as Croatia was named the top Emerging Destination by Virtuoso travel advisorsfor the new decade, honoring the stir caused by the Game-of-Thrones-effect, dramatic landscapes, and proximity to other European destinations. Of course,Splita coastal city that seamlessly intertwines modern life and ancient historyis widely known for its lavish yacht parties and Mediterranean climate in the summer. What you may soon discover is that Split is an all-season destination and considerably quieter and more affordable outside of July and August. The newly openedCornaro Hotelis a modern escape in the historic Old Town, standing just feet away fromDiocletian's Palace, where Emperor Diocletian slept every evening after voluntarily surrendering the throne of the Roman Empire. The Palace today, perched on the harbor and forming about half of Splits Old Town, is still vibrant with lifethe Michelin-starred restaurant Zoi, for example, is built into the fourth-century walls.

Of course, another famed destination in Croatia isDubrovnik the ancient jewel of baroque architecture and limestone streets cradled in the Dalmatian Mountains. Whether pretending to be Cersei Lannister a la GoT on the iconic Walk of Shame staircase, or imagining defending the citys honor on the famedand highly InstagrammableWalls of Dubrovnik, imaginative travelers will have a ball in town. The Hotel Excelsior, towering over the Adriatic and Old Town skyline, is the ultimate retreat for tourists. Dubrovnik is also emerging as an off-season destination, as well. The mild Croatian winter is a prime time to bask in culture, wander the holiday markets of Old Town, walk the promenade inCavtat, the idyllic resort town 20km south of Dubrovnik, all without the hordes of crowds summer months inevitably bring.

And this year there is even more reason to visitRijeka, Croatias third-largest city and largest port, will be honored as the European Capital of Culture in 2020. Rijeka has benefited from a diverse history, with Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Central European influences that have shaped its eclectic architecture, culture, and progressive spirit.

Hyatt Ziva in the Dominican Republic.

Where: Dominican Republic

Chosen by: Katie Jackson is a Montana-based travel writer whose work has been published byTravel & Leisure, USA TODAY, Fox News,andThe Sunday Times. Every trip she takes is an investment, and she likes to pay the rewards forward by helping other travelers. You can follow her adventures (and misadventures) onInstagram.

Why: This tropical paradiseand one of the Caribbeans most affordable islands to visitis determined not to have a repeat of last year. After severalhighly publicized American tourist deaths in 2019, the government is working overtime to reassure travelers that theDominican Republicis still their dream beach vacation. In fact, if you cant handle huge crowds or overpaying, there might not be a better time to visit. The decline in tourism has resulted in more available rooms, often at lower rates. It certainly hasnt stopped hospitality industry leaders like Hyatt from investing. Personally, Im itching to visit the DR in 2020 so I can check out the all new family-friendlyHyatt Zivaand adults-onlyHyatt Zilara Cap CanaHyatts first properties on the island. Combined, these all-inclusive resorts boast 700 luxury suites, a 14,000 sq. ft. fitness center and a Larimer stone cave spa with 18 massage rooms. Of course, the biggest allure of the Dominican Republicwhich is often spared from the worst hurricanesis still its Insta-worthywhite-sand beaches.

Polandone of the top places to go in 2020.

Where: Poland

Chosen by: Olivia Balsinger has utilized her global perspective to manifest a career as a travel expert. She ditched NYC corporate life for adventure (and lust over a Danish boy!) in Copenhagen and hasnt looked back. Olivia has visited 103 countries and was honored as InterContinental Groups Latin America Journalist of the Year." She is the co-host of the upcoming immersive travel seriesJourney's Beyondand is the co-producer ofFly Brother, coming to PBS in 2020. Follow her adventures onInstagram.

Why: The year 2020 commemorates the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War, prompting numerous tributes around the world to honor and remember.Polandremembers the tragedy of war, with a death count of almost 6 million citizensabout one-fifth of the pre-war population. Today,the country welcomes guests to dually understand the atrocities that occurred within its borders and witness its process to heal. The sojourn should begin inKrakow, one of the few Polish cities to survive the destruction of Nazi-occupied Europe. Oskar Schindlers Factory, brought into widespread familiarity by the biopicSchindlers List, is now a museum that engages the five senses to help travelers empathize, mourn and ultimately reflect upon this dark chapter in the citys history. Krakow offers a variety of other attractions, such as Wawel Castle, Planty Park and the magnificentWieliczka Salt Mine.

Train travel has become more accessible in Poland in recent years, making traversing the country much simpler. Step on board for a 78-minute journey from Krakow toAuschwitz-Birkenaua place everyone owes themselves to visit as citizens of the world. The countrys capital,Warsaw, is also a testament to this journey of understanding. Although Warsaws landscape will forever pay homage to its fallen buildings and devastating past, it is simultaneously a city determined to change its future.The rebirth of Warsaw is a tribute to victims who wouldnt have allowed the rubble of their war-torn past to become a symbol of their home.

On the shores of Montreux, Switzerland.

Montreux, Switzerland

Chosen By:Ashlea Halpern, editor-at-large forAFAR;writer forCond Nast Traveler, AirbnbMagazine, andNew YorkMagazine, among other titles;and co-founder ofMinnevangelist, a site dedicated to spreading the gospel of Minnesotas greatness.

Why:As a travel writer, I had the great privilege of visiting more than 70 cities in 15 countries this year. Cracking my top five was beautiful Montreux, which I toured as part of a bespoke itinerary from leading rail tour operatorVacations By Rail.Located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, Montreux boasts ornate Belle poque architecture, famous former residents such as Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury, and a front-row seat to the snow-dusted French Alps and stunning Lake Geneva. Strolling the five-mile promenade of the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe should be a top priority for visitors; the path is a horticulturists dream, lined with weeping willows and tulips in every color of the rainbow.

Natural beauty aside, there are other reasons to visit Montreux. Top of the list is the final redevelopment of the 12th-centuryChillon Castle,in nearby Veytaux, Switzerlands most visited historic monument and the inspiration behind the castle in DisneysThe Little Mermaid. Freddie fans can get their fix at the Queen: The Studio Experience" exhibition at theCasino Barrire Montreux,former home of the recording studios where the band made seven albums between 1978 and 1995. In other big music news, the storiedMontreux Jazz Festivalwill celebrate its 54th anniversary next July with 16 days of free and ticketed concerts, including headliners Lenny Kravitz and Lionel Richie.

For oenophiles, there isLavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising 2,051 acres dating to the 12th century. For appreciators of dramatically wild landscapes, there is theMOB GoldenPass Expresstrain with panoramic windows. It is slated to launch a two-hour route by the end of 2020, traveling from Montreux to Zweisimmen with connections to Interlaken. Lake cruises, Le Corbusier architecture, the worlds first museum dedicated exclusively to food (Alimentarium), a handful of Michelin-starred restaurantswhats not to love?

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Where To Go Next: 27 Best Places To Travel In 2020 - Forbes