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

How to get the best travel deals and tips

By Claire Crick published 28 March 19

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 isCoron 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 isNusa 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 isElla 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?

Claire Crick

Claire has been a journalist for over 15 years, writing about everything from soaps and TV to beauty, entertainment, and even the Royal Family. After starting her career at a soap magazine, she ended up staying for 13 years, and over that time she’s pulled pints in the Rovers Return, sung karaoke in the Emmerdale village hall, taken a stroll around Albert Square, and visited Summer Bay Surf Club in sunny Australia.

After learning some tricks of the trade at websites Digital Spy, Entertainment Daily and woman&home, Claire landed a role at What’s On TV and whattowatch.com writing about all things TV and film, with a particular love for Aussie soaps, Strictly Come Dancing and Bake Off.

She’s interviewed everyone from June Brown—AKA Dot Cotton—to Michelle Keegan, swapped cooking tips with baking legend Mary Berry backstage at the NTAs, and danced the night away with soap stars at countless awards bashes. There’s not a lot she doesn’t know about soaps and TV and can be very handy when a soapy question comes up in a pub quiz!

As well as all things soap-related, Claire also loves running, spa breaks, days out with her kids, and getting lost in a good book.