These Must-Visit Destinations Didn't Make Lonely Planet's Top 10

The Lonely Planet Best in Travel roundup highlights some of the key destinations you need to add to your bucket list. However, with only 10 spots available, some must-visit countries inevitably missed out. We select some others that easily could have been included.

First, those that did make the list. Canada, this year’s number one, has enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity among holidaymakers attracted by its incredible national parks and diverse cities. Finland has emerged from the shadows of its Nordic neighbours to claim third spot, while the final three places featured new entries in Oman, Myanmar and Ethiopia. Here’s the full list:

Canada
Colombia
Finland
Dominica
Nepal
Bermuda
Mongolia
Oman
Myanmar
Ethiopia

Which countries didn’t quite make the cut?

Following January’s historic nuclear agreement, which has lifted economic sanctions, analysts predict Iran is set to experience a ‘golden age’ in tourism. Last year, AccorHotels opened the country’s first international hotel and next year Spanish hoteliers Meliá Hotels International will open a five-star beachfront on the Caspian Sea, Iran’s first foreign-branded luxury developments in decades.

Estonia

With twice-weekly British Airways flights direct from London to Tallinn and with 36 direct flights in the summer season of 2017, this Nordic gem is more accessible than ever. Famous for its love of music and with incredible wildlife, Estonia could be a surprise hit for the year ahead.
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The view over Toompea hill and Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Sudan

Now that the US has lifted economic sanctions, Sudan and its capital Khartoum, in particular, look set to experience a rush of tourism. Corinthia Hotels International is just one five-star hotelier with its sights set on making East Africa a flagship destination in the year ahead.

Georgia

It’s a little-known fact, but Georgia is one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions and in recent years has opened its doors to oenophiles everywhere as the Burgundy of the Black Sea. With attractions ranging from the Caucasus Mountains to coastal resorts and the historic capital of Tbilisi, it’s no wonder hoteliers Sheraton and InterContinental are both rumoured to be opening five-star resorts next year.

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Panoramic view of Tbilisi at sunset, Georgia

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