From Bhutan to Kyrgyzstan: 20 top travel destinations to visit in 2020

With 2020 upon us, many people will be looking forward to the year ahead and making those all-important travel plans. Whether you're looking for more sustainable destinations, something off the beaten track or just a bit of travel inspiration, here are 20 of the most exciting places to visit in 2020...

1. Slovenia

Why go in 2020? It's set to be included in the Michelin guide

Surrounded by Austria, Croatia, Hungary and Italy, Slovenia is a small but perfectly formed destination that’s just beginning to make a name for itself, despite the long-running popularity of its neighbours. Set between the Alps and the Adriatic, Slovenia is all about long walks, flower-dusted meadows and glass-like lakes. The country has many natural attractions, such as the Piran hiking trails and Postojna Cave. It’s also big on sustainable travel, with new cycling trails and forest glamping experiences, too, in the pipeline. Slovenia is also getting noticed for its fine dining, with chef Ana Ros recognised as one of the world’s best, and a host of new restaurants opening in the capital, Ljubljana - get there before the reviewers do.

2. Egypt

Why go in 2020? To visit the Grand Egyptian Museum

After several delays, Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors this year. The sprawling centre is beside the Great Pyramid of Giza and will be the world’s largest museum to be dedicated to one civilisation. It’s also close to the newly opened Sphinx International Airport. Elsewhere, Egypt’s first long-distance hiking trail opened last year and is becoming a favourite for adventure travellers.

3. Mexico

Why go in 2020? Emirates has launched flights to Mexico City

Travelling to Mexico from the UAE has become a lot easier since Emirates began flying to Mexico City from Dubai through Barcelona in December. The Mexican capital is a thriving hub of culture, cuisine and history. See Unesco-listed structures in the historic centre and wander by ancient cathedrals and remnants of the Aztec empire. Don’t forget about the food: from tasty pambazo and camote to spicy corn chilaquiles, the largest city in North America has a booming culinary scene.

4. Japan

Why go in 2020? To get caught up in Olympic fever

The country is hosting the 2020 Summer Olympics and more than 600,000 visitors are expected to travel to the country. Join the excitement by planning a Japan trip, but skip the crowds in the big cities and head instead to the Yamaguchi Prefecture, where you’ll have the place almost to yourself. Being the westernmost region of Honshu, Yamaguchi is known for its beaches, beautiful cherry blossoms and historic Samurai districts.

5. Dubai

Why go in 2020? The world’s greatest show is in town

Dubai Expo 2020 is nearly upon us. Running for 173 days from October until April 2021, the event promises to be “the greatest show on Earth” with almost 200 countries set to take part. The UAE will make history as the host of the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East. Elsewhere, Dubai’s Museum of the Future will be opening in October and the Zaha Hadid-designed ME by Melia Dubai hotel is also gearing up for its much-anticipated launch.