6 destinations to escape from the city this vacation

Who hasn't seen a movie in which the protagonist leaves everything behind to embark on an adventure into the unknown? Stories that make us dream, but which we see as fiction. We're no longer adventure-hungry children. We're those teenagers who still had the time and desire to go on an Interrail trip, or explore Southeast Asia with a backpack and a few euros in our pockets. We've rushed to mature, and we've forgotten to continue dreaming about traveling. We're afraid of being gone for too long, and we're overwhelmed by planning anything other than our work schedule or weekend plans. The truth is, we have less and less free time to enjoy. However, free time well spent is what makes dreams come true. And there's no better way to spend it than to step out of your comfort zone to discover the world you live in.

Discovering exotic places is one of the most rewarding activities available, so we suggest some wonderful destinations you should add to your list:

Ben Thouard

Tahiti and Moorea (French Polynesia)

Better known as a honeymoon destination for its luxury over-the-water hotels than for its treasures naturalFrench Polynesia is one of the last remaining havens of peace for marine life in the world. But there's nothing like a bed & breakfast to enjoy local culture without going over budget.

Manta rays, white-tip sharks, humpback whales, and dolphins swim freely, just as they once did, in complete harmony. Diving with a mask and snorkel in the lagoons or scuba diving in the atolls are unforgettable experiences. For wave lovers, Teahupoo is a living legend that you must surf at least once in your life (if you dare, of course).

Carsten ten Brink

Himalayan Valleys (Bhutan)

A small country lost in the Himalayas that we hear very little about. However, its “Gross National Happiness” index has become world-famous for measuring the well-being and the happiness of the country instead of the "Gross Domestic Product," which measures the totality of goods and services produced by a country over a period of time. Bhutan has committed to sustainable and equitable development, the preservation of its culture, environmental protection, and good governance. Furthermore, its agriculture is organic, free of pesticides and GMOs. In short, it's an exemplary country in an exemplary geographical location. Its numerous valleys with views of the imposing Himalayan mountain range make it a unique place in the world that you should add to your "Places to Visit" list.

Todd Gustafson

Avenue of the Baobabs (Madagascar)

One of the largest islands in the world, right next to Africa. Many plant and animal species found in this unique place are endemic, meaning they can only be found there. The beaches are heavenly, and the safaris are unforgettable. But the most fascinating thing about Madagascar are those trees that seem to be planted upside down: the baobabs. The magical avenue, located in the west of the island very close to the sea, is a magical trail unique in the world.

Awesome Places on Earth

Banff National Park (Canada)

Few Europeans choose to go to Canada over the United States. And there are few Canadian places we can name by heart. Niagara Falls, Whistler, Toronto... Montreal, perhaps. But if Canada is known for anything, it's its wonderful lakes and mountains.Banff National Park is, not surprisingly, the second most visited place in the country and one of those Photoshopped landscapes, where the water is an impossible blue and the mountains look like they've been carved into a rock. A place to see the Northern Lights, practice winter sports, and camp under the Milky Way in summer. It's undoubtedly one of the best places in the world for canoeing, kayaking, climbing, and hiking.

José Luis Narváez

Irati Forest (Spain)

But you don't have to go so far to enjoy a magical place. On the Iberian Peninsula, we have the Irati Forest in the Pyrenees of Navarre. It's the second largest beech forest in Europe and looks like something out of a fairy tale. Scientific studies praise the therapeutic value of deciduous forests for relieving stress. Especially in autumn, when the beech trees begin their winter metamorphosis, the countryside is tinged with ochre colors, like a living canvas. It's an ideal place for strolling (by bike or on foot), foraging for mushrooms, or simply admiring those wonderful trees. Its trails are easy and pleasant, perfect for a relaxing day in a surreal setting.

Surfing Magazine

Puerto Escondido (Mexico)

Mexico, Mexico, Me'ico… traditionally associated with cacti, burritos, and drug cartels. However, this North American country is one of the few proclaimed to be “mega-diverse.” by the United Nations (topping the list along with other gems like Brazil, Indonesia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo). If you travel through it, you'll find arid deserts, temperate forests, alpine zones, subtropical forests, rainforests, cenotes, and paradisiacal beaches with extensive coral reefs. Puerto Escondido is located in the Oaxaca region and is an oasis of tranquility. naturalFreedom, surfing, and good vibes. Definitely a perfect spot for backpackers.