For most people, the approaching end of the year is the perfect time to think about good resolutions for the coming 12 months. Not so true for travel fans! They are now moved by one question: what are the best travel destinations for 2022? These five destinations have definitely earned a place on the bucket list - and are also (still mostly) real insider tips:

AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Best suited for: Pioneers and adventurers

AlUla has flown under the radar of most travelers. Yet the 22,000-square-kilometre region in Saudi Arabia is one of the few places in the world where you can still delve deep into history. In the past, it was considered an important trading hub on the ancient frankincense route. Today, AlUla is home to the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. 7,000-year-old tombs, the remains of the ancient city of Hegra, bizarre rock formations, gorges and art installations await travellers. The AlUla oasis with its lush nature of olive trees, figs, oats, dates and citrus trees forms an exciting contrast to the desert all around. 

Hotel recommendation:

Shaden Desert Resort
Street، Hail، AlUla Saudi Arabia
Tel.: +966 50 604 3344
Web: shaden-resort.com
Price: from € 830,-/2 nights incl. excursions

Scottish Highlands, Great Britain

Best suited for: Active and nature lovers

For a long time, the Scottish Highlands were considered an inhospitable region that tended to hide its charms. But in recent years, more and more film production teams are discovering the rugged beauty of the dramatic Highlands. Walkers, trail runners and mountain bikers are also setting off. They explore mysterious lochs on their tours, follow the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William and get up close to nature on these 154 kilometres. The Scottish Highlands combine an active and nature holiday with history and architecture for castles and fortresses dot the landscape.

Hotel recommendation:

River Ness Hotel
83-97 Church St, Inverness IV1 1QN, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 20 3868 8668
Web: radissonhotels.com
Price: from € 58,-/night

St. Pete Clearwater, Florida/USA

Best suited for: Families and beach holidaymakers

Florida itself is not necessarily an insider tip. After all, the Sunshine State with its warm temperatures, white sandy beaches and crystal clear sea has been attracting people to its coast - mostly to the east - for decades. But even away from Miami Beach, on the west coast of Florida, the state is not lacking charm. That's where St. Pete/Clearwater is located. The region has some of the most beautiful beaches. Along the Pinellas Trail between St. Pete and Tarpon Springs, you'll discover expansive parks, scenic rivers and quaint towns. Families will enjoy the wildlife experiences in St. Pete. Like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where injured sea creatures are rescued. Plus, it's easy to get here, and there are plenty of family-friendly accommodations.

Hotel recommendation:

The Don CeSar
3400 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706, United States.
Tel.: +1 727-360-1881
Web: doncesar.com.
Price: from € 532,-/night

Setouchi, Japan

Best suited for: Peace seekers and individualists

Travelers to Japan usually have Tokyo as their destination. Many overlook the vast Setouchi region. It consists of seven prefectures and is located on the inland sea area of Japan. Setouchi stretches between the southern part of Honshu and the island of Shikoku. Setouchi's breathtaking scenery, rich history and profound culture are considered special even in Japan. The wonderful seascape opens the door to an original Japan. Here, the past is still present. For example in the thermal bath culture, which is still intensively celebrated here.

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Limani Setouchi
3900 Ushimadocho Ushimado, Setouchi, Okayama 701-4302, Japan
Tel.: +81 869-34-5500
Web: limani.jp
Price: from € 144,-/night

Belgrade, Serbia

Best suited for: Foodies and city trip fans

The Serbian capital Belgrade is set to receive its first Michelin Guide in 2022. No wonder, after all, all Eastern European cuisines come together to form a delicious blend in Serbia. The exquisite Salon 1905 and the Magellan. are at the top of the list. The city also has a unique charm. Brutalist block buildings line up with hip cafés and trendy shops. In addition to highlights for gourmets, there are also must-visits for sightseeing fans. For example, the Belgrade Castle, the St. Sava Temple, the Avala Tower and the National Museum.

Hotel recommendation:

Square Nine Hotel
Studentski trg 9, Beograd 103933, Serbia
Tel.: +381 11 3333500
Web: squarenine.rs
Price: from € 262,-/night