Travelling is one of the greatest pleasures in life, and global travel is being made easier each year with more flights being offered at ever decreasing prices. Although many people don’t think twice about jetting off on their summer holidays each year, we are all guilty of perhaps being a little unadventurous when it comes to our destination of choice.

With the state of the economy as it is, many of us are lucky to get one holiday and because of this, we prefer to play it safe and pick a destination that we’re familiar with, and where we know we’ll have a good time. As they say, variety is the spice of life, and one of the pleasures of travel is the un-known, adventuring and discovering new places, people and experiences.

With this in mind I’ve compiled a list of five unusual destinations for 2012, as suggested by top travel writers. Try out one of these untapped countries for size next year, you might just be pleasantly surprised.

1.       Kosovo

Kosovo is Europe’s newest country and the state ravaged by war is now rebuilding after declaring independence in 2008. The country is located in south-eastern Europe and is unsurprisingly very affordable compared to other popular European destinations, Contrary to popular belief, Kosovo, although still in a transition period, is not a dreary Eastern bloc with a hangover from communism, but rather, a young optimistic nation with ultra-friendly locals.

2.       Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a small state in Western African state once plagued by a ten-year civil war but now a thriving tourist destination with a buzzing capital, Freetown, which is as carefree and laidback as it sounds. With some great, fresh, local food and a general celebratory party vibe, mixed with the hospitality of Africa’s west coast, Sierra Leone could well be the next Spain.

3.       Myanmar

South-east Asia is full of popular tourist destinations, not least the beach paradise utopia that is Thailand. Myanmar (formerly Burma). Like other entries on this list, Myanmar has experienced its fair share of troubles in the past but is in a state of reform and nevertheless very safe for tourists. Unspoilt and untapped, Myanmar is less over-run and therefore more culturally rich than its neighbours.

4.       East London

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world is about to get a whole lot better in 2012 as Brits and tourists alike celebrate the ultra-modern and the reassuringly traditional. Both the Olympic games and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee take place in the English capital this summer, guaranteeing a carnival atmosphere and plenty to do; weather permitting!

5.       Cuba

Cuba is well known for offering a portal into another time zone, the city is stuck firmly in the twentieth century with art-deco buildings and classic 50s American cars. With the fall of communism and the lifting of the U.S embargo however, Havana won’t remain this way forever, so pay a visit before it’s too late!

 

Joe is a travel blogger who loves to try out new destinations. He’s currently looking for good Rome hotels on the net!