There’s something deliciously sweet about discovering a destination just before the rest of the world does. We let Cabo Verde, once a relatively under-the-radar collection of Atlantic islands, slip between our fingers as it suddenly found itself in the global spotlight after the tiny nation captured hearts during its memorable World Cup run. While we missed that boat, we don't intend to make that mistake again.
These five destinations offer spectacular scenery, fascinating cultures and unforgettable experiences. Dust off your passports and get exploring before the crowds, and the Instagram posts get fired up.
1. São Tomé & Príncipe: Africa's Best-Kept Island Secret
If you've never heard of São Tomé and Príncipe, you're certainly not alone, and that's precisely what makes it so intriguing.
This tiny Portuguese-speaking island nation sits in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Africa. Think lush rainforest, volcanic peaks, deserted beaches, colourful colonial architecture and old cocoa plantations, all without the crowds associated with better-known tropical destinations.
The official tourism board describes the islands as a place of hidden valleys, secluded beaches, primary forests and remarkable biodiversity.
Príncipe, the smaller of the two main islands, is particularly special. Its Banana Beach, rainforest waterfalls and former cocoa plantations offer the sort of tropical scenery that looks almost too good to be real.
Why go now?
São Tomé is still relatively difficult to reach compared with mainstream Caribbean and European destinations, which is part of its charm. For travellers who have "done" the traditional islands and want something genuinely different, this is a destination worth discovering early.
Perfect for: Adventure travellers, couples, nature lovers and anyone looking for a truly unusual tropical escape.
2. Albania: The Mediterranean Before the Mega-Resorts
Albania isn't exactly a secret anymore, but parts of Albania still feel like the Mediterranean did decades ago.
While places such as Ksamil are increasingly popular, much of the Albanian Riviera remains surprisingly undeveloped. Dramatic mountains plunge toward the Ionian Sea, small villages cling to hillsides and beautiful beaches are still considerably less commercialized than those in neighbouring Greece, Croatia and Italy.
For a quieter experience, look beyond the famous beaches to places such as Himara, Borsh, Porto Palermo and the villages around Vuno.
And Albania isn't just about beaches. Ancient ruins, Ottoman-era towns, mountain valleys and excellent food make it possible to combine a seaside vacation with culture and adventure.
Why go now?
Albania is rapidly moving onto the international travel radar. The country's growing popularity means some of its famous spots are already becoming busy in July and August.
That makes now the time to explore beyond the obvious.
Perfect for: European beach lovers, road trippers, foodies and travellers looking for Mediterranean scenery without Mediterranean prices.
3. The Azores: Portugal's Atlantic Secret
Imagine a place where volcanic crater lakes, lush green mountains, natural hot springs and dramatic Atlantic cliffs all exist within a few hours of Europe.
Welcome to the Azores.
This Portuguese archipelago is made up of nine volcanic islands, each with its own personality. São Miguel is the easiest introduction, with crater lakes, geothermal springs and charming villages, while islands such as Flores and Pico offer an even more remote experience.
The Azores are particularly appealing to travellers who want a vacation that combines nature with relaxation rather than spending an entire week beside a resort pool.
And there's another major attraction: the islands are renowned for whale and dolphin watching, with the Atlantic waters surrounding the archipelago providing opportunities to see numerous marine species.
Why go now?
The Azores have begun appearing on more travellers' lists as an alternative to Europe's crowded Mediterranean destinations. But compared with places such as Santorini or the Amalfi Coast, they remain refreshingly low-key.
Perfect for: Couples, hikers, photographers, food and wine lovers, and travellers who prefer adventure with their relaxation.
4. Madagascar: More than an Animated Movie Title
Forget everything you think you know about a tropical vacation. Madagascar is in a category of its own.
Located off the southeastern coast of Africa, Madagascar is the world's fourth-largest island—and its isolation has created an extraordinary collection of wildlife and landscapes found nowhere else on Earth.
You can relax on the white-sand beaches of Nosy Be, explore rainforest filled with lemurs and chameleons, wander beneath the towering baobab trees of western Madagascar or snorkel and dive in remarkably clear Indian Ocean waters.
What makes Madagascar particularly compelling is the sheer variety. A single trip can combine wildlife, beaches, culture, hiking and adventure without feeling like you've simply moved from one resort area to another.
Why go now?
Madagascar remains far less visited than many of the world's better-known tropical destinations. Tourism is growing, but much of the island still feels genuinely undiscovered.
For travellers who have already experienced the Caribbean, Mexico or traditional European beach destinations, Madagascar offers something increasingly rare: the feeling of going somewhere truly different.
Perfect for: Adventurous couples, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, divers and travellers who want a vacation story that goes well beyond "we sat on the beach."
5. Flores, Indonesia — Bali's Wild Little Sister
Bali has become one of the world's most recognizable vacation destinations. But Indonesia has thousands of other islands, and Flores is one of the most fascinating.
Located east of Bali, Flores offers a very different experience. The island is home to volcanic landscapes, traditional villages, dramatic coastlines and the spectacular Kelimutu crater lakes, whose colours can change depending on mineral and volcanic conditions.
The western end of Flores also provides access to the where travellers can combine island hopping and spectacular beaches with the chance to see the famous Komodo dragons.
But perhaps Flores' biggest attraction is that it still feels like a journey rather than a packaged vacation.
Why go now?
As travellers look for alternatives to overcrowded Bali, destinations such as Flores and the surrounding islands are increasingly attracting attention.
Go before the boutique hotels, beach clubs and Instagram crowds catch up.
Perfect for: Adventurous couples, divers, photographers, hikers and travellers who want to experience Indonesia beyond Bali.
