Make 2018 the year of discovery! And what better way than exploring some of the world’s lesser-visited, but equally as incredible destinations? There's a slew of cities that are still under the radar and perfect for a crowd-free escape. We've taken the time (and the hard work!) of checking out the top places worth checking out. From beauties of the Balkans to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, here are 8 alternative travel destinations for 2018.

VIETNAM

2017 may have been the year of Thailand, but why not expand your tour of SE Asia to Vietnam, the land of pho and water puppet shows!

Highlights include: Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (commonly known as Saigon), Sapa, Hoi An

MALTA

A gem of the Mediterranean Malta has a tumultuous history marked by a succession of rulers from the French to the British to the Moors. Get a taste of history, incredible architecture, and majestic sea on your exploration of this amazing archipelago.

Highlights Include: Valetta, Azure Window, Ggantija, Hagar Qim

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

All everyone was talking about in 2017 was Croatia – this year, make your way slightly east to Croatia’s incredible neighbor, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Explore medieval villages, riverside towns, or go for a hike in the Dinaric Alps.

Highlights Include: Sarajevo, Blagaj, Medjugorje

BHUTAN

The Land of the Thunder Dragon is calling! This land-locked highlight of Southeast Asia can be found in the Himalayan Mountains, so you know you’re in for scenic views of a lifetime.

Highlights Include: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Thimphu, Paro, Phuntsholing

PORTUGAL

Cities and coastlines, royal villages and mouthwatering Pastel de Nata, sweeten your 2018 travel plans with a trip to Portugal! Spend a few days in Lisbon, then head out on a journey to the country’s stunning coast, making sure to enjoy some Port wine along the way.

Highlights Include: Lisbon, Porto, Albufeira, Algarve, Sintra

INDONESIA

Bali may be the destination of dreams, but there’s so much more to this amazing island than just that beautiful island! Enjoy fresh fruit while whiling away under the Indonesian sun, explore monkey forests, and go scuba diving at a coral reef or two.

Highlights Include: Ubud, Tanah Lot, Lombok, Jakarta,

SLOVENIA

From lake Bled to beautiful Ljubjiana, the wonders of Slovenia are waiting to take your breath away. Proudly declared as the world’s first “green country,” the residents are as proud of their clean streets as their pristine drinking water – fill ‘er up!

Highlights Include: Ljubljiana, Bled, Istria, Scokjan Caves

CUBA

As of 2017 it’s easier than ever before to visit Cuba. Take a step back into time in Havana, and be sure to bring home some Cuban Cigars for friends and family who could not join you.

Highlights Include: Havana, Trinidad, Vinales, Varadero