The new year is fast approaching, and many travelers are starting to plan their trips for 2024. For a bit of travel inspo, American Express Travel has released its annual list of trending destinations. This year’s list features off-the-beaten-path destinations, including one U.S. city: Santa Fe, NM.
Travelers—particularly Millennials and Gen Z—increasingly seek new and more immersive experiences. Amex Travel released a Global Travel Trends report earlier this year that found 89% of travelers are interested in destinations they haven’t previously visited, while 68% of respondents are eager to visit places before they become popular. In response to this trend, Amex’s 2024 Trending Destinations list focuses on alternatives to more popular vacation spots around the globe.
The destinations on the list were identified by global American Express card member travel bookings along with input from Amex Travel’s team of 7,000 travel consultants. The list aims to inspire travelers to think beyond the traditional hotspots and embrace adventure.
Among the worthy alternatives that Amex Travel recommends for 2024 is Santa Fe, NM. While vacationers in the Southwest flock to Sedona, AZ, Amex recommends Santa Fe for its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty. With a backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and adobe Pueblo-style architecture, the city is rich with inspiration. Explore museums, folk art and a vibrant culinary scene inspired by the bounty of the region.
Other global spots that made the list include San Miguel De Allende as an alternative to Riviera Maya in Mexico, Bodrum as an alternative to Istanbul in Turkey, Cervo as an alternative to Amalfi in Italy and The Seychelles as an alternative to The Maldives.
View the full list and get inspired here.