Number 10
Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile
Credit: GoToLatin.com
Believe it or not, the legendary island described by author Daniel Defoe in his classic Robinson Crusoe really does exist. This lost paradise, which was created by a series of volcanic explosions, lies over 400 miles off the coast of Chile in the Juan Fernandez Islands. Once a refuge of pirates, this national park and world biosphere reserve remains almost untouched by man. There are many ways to discover and enjoy the natural beauty of the island, such as trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, scuba diving, submarine hunting, and fishing.
Must-see: Ruins from the pirates and exiled rebels that visited the island still remain. In the Patriots' Caves, you will find fascinating traces of the Spanish nobles who were exiled on the island during the Spanish Reconquest.
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Number 9
Dresden, Germany
Located about 125 miles south of Berlin in Eastern Germany, Dresden is a masterpiece of 18th century Baroque architecture. Although the bombings of WW2 and August 2002's devastating floods did a lot of damage to many of Dresden's historical sites, it remains an architectural feast. In fact, this dynamic city boasts some of Europe's most famous palaces and cultural treasures, including the Zwinger Palace, a magnificent Baroque showpiece. Adding to the beauty of this urban center is the surrounding countryside and the scenic twists and turns of the Elbe River.
Must-see: Dresden is known for being a city of celebrations and festivals, the most famous of which is the Elbhangfest , an art and culture festival held in June.
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Number 8
Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
The most easterly of the seven major Canary Islands, Lanzarote lies about 60 miles from the coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. From the moonlike landscape of the volcanic field in the National Park of Timanfaya to the magnificent array of white and black sand beaches, this island never ceases to amaze its visitors. Throughout the year, you can enjoy a wide variety of sports, from windsurfing and scuba diving to hang-gliding and horseback riding. The island even hosts one of the top iron man competitions in the world, the Ironman Lanzarote.
Must-see: Try Lanzarote's unique volcanic wine at the El Grifo Wine Museum.
Off to a jewel in Thailand, and the epitome of luxury in Belize
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Number 7
Koh Samui, Thailand
Remember that mind-blowing deserted island that was featured in The Beach ? Although Koh Samui isn't exactly deserted, its pristine beach and crystal clear turquoise waters will make you feel like you've landed in that same tropical paradise. Located off the southeastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, it was once the best-kept secret among backpack travelers. However, even the most popular beaches, with their many resorts, restaurants and bars, are never uncomfortably busy, even during high season.
Must-see: The beaches, of course. While Chaweng, Lamai and Maenam are the largest and most popular, there are 23 other beaches for those who are looking for quieter places or even complete solitude.
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Number 6
Cayo Espanto, Belize
If you're looking for privacy and tranquility, Cayo Espanto is the ideal destination. This four-acre private island off the coast of Belize, in the Western Caribbean, is surrounded by royal blue skies, turquoise waters and pearl white beaches. The luxurious villas that dot this island paradise each include a private pool, a personal dock or veranda on which to dine, a butler, and other staff members (the staff to guest ratio is 2:1). Exciting activities include scuba diving in the second largest barrier reef or snorkeling in Hol Chan, Belize's National Marine Park that was selected as one of the world's top 10 snorkeling sites by USA Today .
Must-see: Take an excursion to the Mayan ruins of Lamanai on the mainland; river trips and visits to inland spas are included along the way.
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Number 5
San Sebastian, Spain
Also known by its Basque name of Donostia , this picturesque seaside resort is the most important town of the Basque region in northern Spain. Perched atop three hills overlooking the beautiful crescent bay of La Concha (the Shell), San Sebastian is best known for its excellent beaches and its lively atmosphere in the summer. The narrow streets of the Old Town are crowded with Spanish bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy the wonderful Basque cuisine, including their famous tapas . Take a trip to the Michelin three-star Restaurant Arzak if you can, for a culinary experience you will not soon forget.
Must-see: The prestigious San Sebastian International Film Festival, held in September, attracts thousands of spectators and famous movie stars.
Oases in the Sahara, and Greece's second largest island
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Number 4
Nefta, Kebili & Douz, Tunisia
Located in southwestern Tunisia, these oases in the Sahara desert spread out like a green carpet on a desolate plateau eroded by sandstorms. In Nefta, hundreds of gently running springs allow thousands of palm and fruit trees to thrive, offering a welcome respite to wary desert travelers for centuries. The largest oasis, Kebili, consists of a cluster of villages. In Douz, which is known as the "Gateway of the Sahara," nomads barter goods such as camels, blankets and silver jewelry every Thursday, "Market Day." It is here that the seemingly endless sand dunes begin; several tourist agencies offer camel safaris or sunset camel rides, for a real desert experience.
Must-see: The International Festival of the Sahara in Douz (usually in November-December), which offers visitors a glimpse into North African traditions such as camel, greyhound and thoroughbred horse racing, Berber songs and dances, and traditional marriage ceremonies.
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Number 3
Evia (Euboea), Greece
The second largest Greek island after Crete, Evia is still relatively unknown to tourists. There are numerous interesting archeological sites to visit, such as the ruins of ancient temples and a 15th century fortress in Chalkida (the island's capital), as well as the Byzantine monastery and folklore museum in Kimi, one of the oldest towns on Evia. There are also tons of outdoor activities and sports, from mountaineering and scuba diving to skiing on Mount Dirfys.
Must-see: The healing baths of natural mineral waters in Edipsos, which have existed since ancient times, can still be enjoyed at one of the many spas.
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Number 2
Essaouira, Morocco
Along the Atlantic Coast of Morocco, there are many fortified towns that boast beautiful beaches, the most famous of which is the resort of Essaouira. An 18th century town characterized by unique architecture and a laid-back atmosphere, it became a favorite refuge for rock stars like Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens in the '60s and '70s. In recent years, it has begun attracting surfers and windsurfers from all over the world thanks to its strong winds and impressive waves. It is the perfect place to relax and stroll through art galleries and wood workshops, or simply mingle with the fishermen and craftsmen who swarm the streets.
Must-see: The numerous souks (markets), particularly the Souk des Bijoutiers (Jewelers' Market) and the Marché d'Épices (Spice Market).
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Number 1
Cinque Terre, Italy
The crowning jewel of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre (Five Lands) consists of five picturesque fishing villages perched on bluffs above the sea. The breathtaking views of the sea and the rolling hillsides, as well as the rare species of flora and fauna in this protected nature and marine park, can be enjoyed on the panoramic foot paths that connect the villages. If the hike is too long, trains and ferries also run regularly between them. Although Cinque Terre has become more and more popular in recent years, the peace and silence that are characteristic of the Riviera remain.
Must-see: The renowned Via dell'Amore ("Lover's Pathway") that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola is cut out of coastal rock and covered with messages of love scrawled by visitors.