The top 20 alternative holiday locations that everyone’s talking about this year

These holiday destinations might not be on your list of places to visit at the moment... but they soon will!

If you’re planning a holiday with a difference this year then look no further, because these sun-drenched destinations are off the beaten track and guaranteed to give your friends serious holiday envy.

While everyone loves a mini break to Paris, or a blissful fortnight soaking up the sun in Portugal, sometimes it is nice to explore somewhere new.

But if, like us, you don’t know where to start when it comes to finding a new far-flung holiday destination then it’s your lucky day, because Hostelworld has done the hard work for us.

They’ve put together a list of the top 20 alternative holiday destinations that has got people talking – and they all sound amazing.

After looking into the bookings taken between 2017 and 2018, the travel company has found that there is a huge growth in people searching for accommodation in more unlikely towns and cities around the globe… but which one will you pick?

Coming out top of the list is Coron in the beautiful Philippines, which boasts breathtaking white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and has become a firm favourite with travellers thanks to the majestic views.

And, if diving is your thing, then you must check out the WWII sunken Japanese warships that have been shipwrecked in just 35 metres of water.

Next on the list is Nusa Lembongan in Indonesia, which is perfect if you’re a fan of exploring on foot.

The winding costal paths to tranquil beaches like Jungut Batu and Dream Beach are prime ways to see what the area has to offer and the clear blue waters are ideal for surfing and diving.

Third on the list is Ella in Sri Lanka, which is a small, laid-back town surrounded by greenery.

Backpackers have made Ella one of the must-see locations on their itinerary over recent years, and with beautiful sights like the Nine Arch Bridge, it is easy to see why it has become so popular.

Below is the full list of all 20 places compiled by Hostelworld, and with so many beautiful destinations to visit there’s definitely something to suit every traveller…

1. Coron – Philippines

2. Nusa Lembongan – Indonesia

3. Ella – Sri Lanka

4. Holbox – Mexico

5. Panglao – Philippines

6. St Julian’s – Malta

7. El Nido – Philippines

8. Canggu – Indonesia

9. Kaikoura – New Zealand

10. Uluwatu – Indonesia

11. Mirissa – Sri Lanka

12. Ninh Binh – Vietnam

13. Tbilisi – Georgia

14. Valladolid – Spain

15. Koh Kong Island – Cambodia

16. Verona – Italy

17. Kiev – Ukraine

18. Cameron Highlands – Malaysia

19. Istanbul – Turkey

20. Caye Caulker – Belize

Which one will you choose?