Looking for a more unusual travel destination this year? Check out these photos of some unbelievably amazing places in the world; we challenge you to read on without reaching for your passport…
1. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Frozen in the depths of winter, the world’s largest salt flat is transformed in to a giant sky-reflecting mirror during rainy season. The pools left over from this monumental prehistoric lake create a shimmering, illusory horizon, making it one of the best places to visit in the world if you like a good trick shot or fun selfie!
2. Northern Lake Baikal, Russia
Another amazing lake, this one is located in southern Siberia and is the world’s largest freshwater bit of blue. The water round these parts freezes into sheets of turquoise ice in winter that might look more at home in Superman’s Fortress of Solitude. Temperatures can plummet to -19°C from December to February, so don’t forget to pack the onesie.
3. Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang, Laos
Already a top holiday destination for backpackers, the Laotian city of Luang Prabang is temptingly close to Kuang Si Falls, a three tier splash spectacular with waters so clear and blue it’ll be hard to resist jumping straight in. Hike the trails around the area to escape the tour groups and find your own secret slice of paradise.
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4. Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile
Admire the amazing Andes and visit one of South America’s most beautiful National Parks. Get your llama legs on and go hiking over mountains loaded with the white stuff and across glorious glaciers.
5. Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming, USA
More wet stuff to blow your socks off, this time in North America. This natural pool, with its rainbow coloured waters, is found in Yellowstone National Park and is the third largest hot spring in the world.
6. Huacachina, Peru
Catch a glimpse of this impressive desert oasis, built in the 1930s around an existing watering hole. Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the lake’s legendary resident, a mermaid.
7. The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan
Ok, so it’s actually a geyser, but ‘Door to Hell’ sounds much catchier doesn’t it? Plus, this burning pool of lava in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert looks just how you’d expect a gateway to the underworld to look: red and hot and steamy.
8. Mount Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia
A couple of days of tough climbing is well-rewarded at the summit of Mount Rinjani, the second highest active volcano in Indonesia, with this spectacular view. A crater lake, affectionately known as ‘Child of the Sea’ by locals, sits pretty at the top of this epic climb.
