Key Highlights

If your passport’s been itching for its next stamp, 2025 is the year to give it a satisfying scratch. The travel world is buzzing with fresh energy, and we’ve rounded up 16 destinations begging to be explored. Whether you’re chasing chill vibes, cultural adventures or Insta-worthy cityscapes, this list has you covered. It’s your insider’s guide to the year’s most unforgettable getaways—some classic, some unexpected but all worth the trip.

Best Places To Travel in the U.S.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Hot air balloons floating over the Rio Grande near Albuquerque, New Mexico.Getty

Albuquerque is perhaps best known for its annual International Balloon Fiesta, during which over 500 colorful hot air balloons launch into the sky over nine days each October. But the city has plenty to offer year-round, such as its charming Old Town Plaza, the ABQ BioPark Zoo and Botanic Garden and multiple science museums. The Sandia Peak Tramway was a big hit with our family, especially our kids. One of the longest aerial tram rides in the world, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains.

If you’d like to explore more of New Mexico during your visit, consider starting with Santa Fe, which is only an hour away. As a UNESCO Creative City, Santa Fe is an art buff’s paradise—home to over 250 art galleries as well as the original Meow Wolf location. For nature lovers, White Sands National Park (where you can sled down gypsum sand dunes) is 3.5 hours away from Albuquerque and Carlsbad Caverns National Park is just an hour further. While we enjoyed both parks, Carlsbad Caverns was a showstopper that truly blew us all away.

Rewards spotlight: Albuquerque has hotel options from each of the major chains, but we chose to stay at the DoubleTree Albuquerque Downtown since I had some Hilton points to spend. As a Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees) holder, I receive automatic Hilton Honors™ Gold status, which means I can get a daily food and beverage credit for myself and up to one guest at eligible hotels. At the Albuquerque DoubleTree, that credit was worth $30 a day to us. So, in addition to eating lots of complimentary DoubleTree cookies, my kids loved using our daily credit to stock up on free snacks at the hotel’s grab-and-go market.

By Clint Proctor, Forbes Advisor Lead Editor

Ashford, Washington and Mt. Rainier National Park

Snow-capped Mt. Rainier in the background with a wooden bridge over a waterfall in the foregroundJerod Morales

If you look south from Seattle on a sunny day, Mt. Rainier stands resolute, as if hovering on the horizon. It’s not exactly a short drive from Seattle to the Mt. Rainier National Park entrance, so my family decided to book a place in the quaint town of Ashford, Washington, near the Nisqually entrance on the park’s south side.

Too remote for chain hotels, the best options here are local accommodations. We booked a short-term rental minutes from the park entrance to maximize our time exploring. When you’re in Ashford, it’s worth stopping by a roadside vendor selling fresh cherries the area is known for—they were much tastier than those we bought at the grocery store.

Hiking is paramount at Mt. Rainier. The park caters to all experience levels, from paved trails overlooking rushing waterfalls to more advanced trails with steep switchbacks and even legitimate mountaineering for those ready to summit its peak.

After entering the park at the Nisqually gates, the road takes visitors past scenic overlooks and mountain lakes. It’s the best route to the Paradise visitor’s center, where park staff can help map out a trail based on your skill and comfort level.

Once on the mountain, hikers are treated to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in the summer and stunning vistas. When the skies are clear, you can even see neighboring Mt. Baker along some trails.

Rewards spotlight: Just because there are no chain hotels in the area doesn’t mean you can’t use points. If you book an Airbnb property with a card like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (rates & fees), you can use points to cover all or part of the charge to offset the out of pocket cost.

Seattle is in one of the furthest corners of the country, but getting there doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s a Delta hub, and since Delta is part of the SkyTeam alliance with Virgin Atlantic, short-haul flights can often be booked at reasonable rates using Virgin Atlantic points. All the major credit card issuers have cards with points that can be transferred to Virgin Atlantic, and some even offer transfer bonuses of up to 40%, stretching your points even further. American Express Membership Rewards® transfer to both Delta SkyMiles and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, and one of my favorite ways to earn Amex points is with the American Express® Gold Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees).

  • By Jerod Morales, Forbes Advisor Deputy Editor

    Block Island, Rhode Island

    Late afternoon summer photo of the North Lighthouse, New Shoreham, Block Island, Rhode Island.Getty

    Block Island is the epitome of summer vacation—beautiful beaches, fantastic seafood and a vibe that emanates the feeling that all is right in the world. You’ll love the coastal hikes, bike rides and numerous ice cream shops that make your beach trip more than just another day of swimming (though we won’t judge if that’s everything you’re looking for). Numerous local events, including festivals and live music, make your evenings as enjoyable as your days.

    Reachable by ferry from Point Judith and Newport, Rhode Island; Montauk, New York; and New London, Connecticut, the island is small enough you could visit as a day trip. But once you’re there, you’ll want to sink in and stay twice as long as you’ve planned. Luckily, various independent inns, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals welcome you to do just that.

    Rewards spotlight: Although you can access Block Island from multiple places, our favorite way to visit is by combining the trip with a few nights in Newport for history, shopping and small city amenities before relaxing on Block Island. Hotels in Newport are pricey, making it an excellent place to redeem hotel points. The ultraconvenient Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa is less than a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal, letting you skip the rental car entirely.

    By Becky Pokora, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer

    Crystal Springs, Florida

    Two West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus) at Three Sisters Springs manatee sanctuary.Getty

    Located about 90 miles from bustling Orlando, Crystal Springs feels light years away from urban sprawl and tourists seeking photo ops with their favorite costumed characters. The area is home to the only national wildlife refuge in the U.S. created expressly to preserve and protect the winter habitat of manatees. During winter, you can arrange a guided boat tour in the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge and even go into the teal blue waters to swim alongside these gentle giants.

    Afterward, grab a sweet treat at Guyer’s Ice Cream and Doughnuts, which offers more than 20 homemade flavors and doughnuts made on the spot.

    Rewards spotlight: You’ll need to rent a car to get to Crystal Springs, a little over an hour from Tampa International Airport (TPA) and about 90 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO). Lodging options are mostly independent operators, but you can use your IHG One Rewards to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Crystal River or your Hilton Honors points to stay at the Hampton Inn Crystal River. Both hotels offer complimentary breakfast and swimming pools, perfect for helping younger kids acclimate to snorkels before you take them to swim with the manatees.

    By Robin Saks Frankel, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer

    Gatlinburg, Tennessee

    Gatlinburg overlook in the fall with sunrise and red sky.Getty

    Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the state’s not-so-secret getaway for those looking to explore the Great Smoky Mountains. The town sits at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers adventure parks and activities, making it an outdoor lover’s dream.

    In Gatlinburg, adventure seekers can find everything from hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding and rafting, to the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America—the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. There’s no shortage of curated outdoor fun, with multiple outfitters offering zip lines, mountain coasters, alpine slides and chairlift or gondola rides up the mountains. In the winter, many of these slopes turn into ski runs and snow tube hills.

    When the skies get cloudy or foggy (showing off why they’re called the Smoky Mountains), head indoors, where you might be pleasantly surprised by the expansive Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. The aquarium is home to an impressive collection of marine life, including penguins, sting rays and a massive shark lagoon with a moving walkway tunnel where you’re almost completely surrounded by sharks, sea turtles and fish swimming.

    Just up the road in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you’ll find Dollywood—the theme park and resort partly owned by legendary singer-songwriter Dolly Parton. Dollywood’s lines might be just as long to wait for food as they are for thrilling rollercoasters and shows.

    Regularly topping the list as the most visited national park in the U.S., make sure to set aside time to explore the forests, waterfalls and biodiversity of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If hiking is challenging, the park offers the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. It’s a 5.5-mile one-way driving loop with stopoffs near mountain streams, waterfalls and well-preserved historic buildings and homes from early mountain settlers.

    Rewards spotlight: The area has abundant vacation rentals with expansive mountain views. You can book one of these and pay with a flexible rewards card, then use points to cover all or a portion of the charge to save room in your budget for all the opportunities for fun in and around the Great Smoky Mountains.

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer flexible Ultimate Rewards® that can be used to cover travel purchases like short-term rentals.

    By Jerod Morales, Forbes Advisor Deputy Editor

    Hendersonville, North Carolina

    Located just 25 miles south of Asheville, Hendersonville was spared most of the Hurricane Helene flooding that hit parts of western North Carolina. It’s also been less affected by the mountain-town boom that has brought gentrification to nearby areas like Black Mountain and Highlands, allowing it to maintain a quiet, low-key charm. Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty to love at nearby Chimney Rock State Park. Hike up the nearly 500-step Outcroppings Trail and be rewarded with sweeping views for miles of Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge.

    Indoors-y types can shoot their shot at the Appalachian Pinball Museum, which has old-time classic arcade games and more contemporary machines. Depending on the season, you can pick your own apples, select your favorite gourd from the pumpkin patch or just enjoy an apple cider donut at Grandad’s Apples, a 100-acre farm and apple orchard. Families can get some hands-on action at the Elijah Mountain Gem Mine. After prospecting for your own treasures, visit the facility’s goat farm, try the kid-friendly obstacle course and marvel at the exotic birds in the on-site aviary.

    Rewards spotlight: Name-brand hotels in this area tend to be more budget-minded. Hilton Honors point collectors can redeem for a stay at the Hampton Inn Hendersonville, which offers complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool. Marriott Bonvoy fans can use rewards at the Fairfield Inn and Suites Hendersonville Flat Rock, which also offers free breakfast and an indoor pool.

    By Robin Saks Frankel, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer

    Salt Lake City, Utah

    View from the state capitol building overlooking Salt Lake City. Getty

    With an abundance of mountains, national parks around every corner and endless outdoor adventure, Salt Lake City might not top your reasons to visit Utah—but it’s a Beehive State treasure you shouldn’t miss.

    Salt Lake City is a blend of urban energy and outdoor adventure you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Spend the morning hiking in the surrounding Wasatch mountains and by late afternoon, explore the historic downtown while prepping your stomach for award-winning dining. Don’t forget to pencil in some time for a free tour of Temple Square.

    Rewards spotlight: The newly remodeled and centrally located Radisson Salt Lake City is a bargain at just 25,000 Choice Privileges Rewards points a night. And it’s just steps away from some of Salt Lake’s best attractions like Temple Square, the Delta Center, Eccles Theater, museums and more. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is one of the best ways to use Choice points thanks to its generous transfer rate: You’ll get 2,000 Choice points for every 1,000 ThankYou Points transferred.

    By Toni Perkins-Southam, Forbes Advisor Lead Editor 

    Seward, Alaska

    The sun setting on mountains west of Resurrection Bay, Seward, Alaska Getty

    Located two and a half hours by car and four by rail from Anchorage, Seward is a small port city located on the edge of the Kenai Peninsula. It’s the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and a habitat for a variety of both land and sea wildlife, including whales, dolphins, seals, bears and more. Take a day trip by boat and marvel at pods of breaching orcas and humpback whales. You’ll likely see sea lions sunning themselves on nearby rocks, puffins in a pack and at least one bald eagle giving you the side eye from its perch.

    Those seeking greater thrills can opt for a helicopter ride that takes you into the clouds and soaring above the Exit Glacier. Enjoy a dog sledding ride across the icy terrain or visit with the mushing pups at a kennel closer to sea level.

    Rewards spotlight: You won’t find name-brand hotels here. But this could be an excellent opportunity to use a credit card that earns high rewards on bookings made through the issuer, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (rates & fees).

    By Robin Saks Frankel, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer

    Best International Travel Destinations

    Bangkok, Thailand

    Maison Dunand restaurant exterior with patio and tree in the courtyard in Bangkok, Thailand. Caroline Lupini

    The Thai capital is often treated as a brief stopover en route to the country’s islands or northern cities, but Bangkok rewards those who linger. This city deserves far more than just a few rushed days—in fact, even a month barely scratches the surface of what it has to offer.

    Bangkok’s food scene exemplifies why Thailand is a global culinary powerhouse. From humble street carts in the bustling lanes of Chinatown to the city’s newest culinary achievement—Sorn, its first three-Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing the complexity of Southern Thai cuisine—Bangkok satisfies every palate and budget. Don’t miss Potong, where Thai-Chinese cuisine is served in a 120-year-old heritage building that’s been in the chef’s family for four generations. For an intimate dining experience, grab a seat at the counter of Samrub Samrub Thai to watch your meal being prepared while sipping locally produced rice wines. Maison Dunand (pictured above) offers excellent ambiance for enjoying French cuisine and a can’t-miss cheese course.

    Getting around Bangkok is surprisingly easy thanks to its modern public transportation. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems connect most major areas, while ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt make taxi services reliable (though Bangkok’s notorious traffic might test your patience).

    Rewards spotlight: Marriott Bonvoy members have excellent options in Bangkok. The luxurious Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit can be booked for as few as 35,000 points per night, making it a perfect use of the free night certificates that come with several Marriott credit cards. For travelers looking to stretch their points further, the Aloft Sukhumvit often goes for under 15,000 points per night while still offering a stylish stay in a convenient location.

    By Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

    Benin

    Floating/stilt village in Benin with waterway and boats in front of stilt houses. Caroline Lupini

    Looking for a destination that breaks away from the usual tourist trail? Benin offers adventurous travelers a blend of history, culture and authenticity—while being safer and easier to visit than many other countries in the region.

    The commercial hub of Cotonou hosts frequent cultural events and expansive (though swim-at-your-own-risk) beaches. Don’t miss the remarkable stilt village of Ganvie to get an unforgettable look at the way of life on the water. In Abomey, the UNESCO-listed Royal Palaces of Abomey showcase the region’s powerful historical kingdoms—spring for a guided tour (available in English) to appreciate the site’s significance. Up north, you can experience Western African culture at the Natitingou Regional Museum, including traditional scarification practice exhibits.

    For an immersive stay, contact Gite Chez Noel, where the owner Noel (French-speaking, though English-speaking staff are being trained) can help craft your perfect Benin experience. In Abomey, Chez Sabine provides comfortable accommodations near historical sites and delicious meals to fuel your exploration.

    Rewards spotlight: While Benin isn’t ideal for hotel redemptions, travelers can save substantially on flights. Look for economy awards from the U.S. starting at just 24,000 Virgin Points on Air France, or splurge on business class from 88,000 United miles on Ethiopian Airlines. Both options typically have good availability.

    By Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

    Colca Canyon, Peru

    Mountains of the Colca Canyon overlooking ancient Incan terraces. Toni Perkins-Southam

    Condors, hot springs, ruins and a gorge nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon—it’s all there in the Colca Canyon of Peru. Located about 100 miles from Arequipa, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can drive yourself (it took me about five hours) or hop on a bus. Whichever you decide, make sure you are prepared for the intense altitude. The primary city of Chivay sits at just under 12,000 feet and things only go up from there.

    The canyon’s dramatic cliffs are home to the Andean condor. Your best chance of seeing them is from Cruz del Condor, which also offers incredible canyon views. Don’t forget your hiking boots. Trails here offer a mix of adventure, from breathtaking beauty to ancient ruins like those at Uyo Uyo. And when you are done exploring, relax in one of the many mineral-rich thermal springs. The Yanque hot spring’s warm waters offer stunning views, and you can even watch the active Sabancaya volcano erupting in the distance.

    Rewards spotlight: Several small towns span the canyon, each with its own charm. Like the lack of oxygen, you also won’t find any chain hotels. This is the perfect opportunity to use your Chase Ultimate Rewards through Chase Travel℠. Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders can redeem their points for accommodations at a rate of 1.5 cents apiece.

    By Toni Perkins-Southam, Forbes Advisor Lead Editor 

    Fes, Morocco

    The Chouara Tannery in Fes, Morocco with various color tanning pits in the front and a few men working to dye leather. A cityscape of Fes in the background.Caroline Lupini

    Lost in the labyrinthine alleys of Fes’s ancient medina, you’ll discover why this imperial city captures the imagination like no other place in Morocco. Unlike its more touristed cousin Marrakesh, Fes has an authenticity that makes every twist and turn an adventure, with centuries-old craftsmanship and culture still thriving within its walls.

    The UNESCO-protected medina of Fes el Bali is a living museum where getting purposefully lost is part of the experience. Wander through the maze-like streets, and you might find yourself at Place Seffarine, where copper workers still practice their craft in a sun-dappled square or stumble upon the intricate architecture of one of the city’s madrasahs. The city’s famous tanneries offer a glimpse into traditional leather-making techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries—though you’ll likely smell them before you see them.

    Foodies shouldn’t miss Dar Roumana (reservations are recommended) for some of the city’s finest dining. The restaurant offers a blend of Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors, served in Fassi elegance. You should also seek out a delicious Fassi breakfast—eggs served with deliciously cured meat.

    Adding to the city’s charm are its many feline residents—well-cared-for cats that lounge in sunny doorways and ancient squares, fed regularly by local residents. These furry friends have become as much a part of Fes’s character as its intricate mosaics and towering minarets.

    Rewards spotlight: One of the best ways to experience Fes is by staying in a traditional riad or dar (Moroccan house), with many available through Airbnb at surprisingly reasonable rates. Palatial multistory properties with rooftop terraces offering panoramic views of the medina can be found for under $200 per night. Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders will find their annual $300 travel credit automatically applied toward these stays, making luxury accommodations even more attainable.

    By Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

    Guanacaste, Costa Rica

    Sunbeds by the pool with Playa Conchal in the background at the W Costa Rica - Reserve Conchal Caroline Lupini

    Guanacaste embodies the best of Costa Rica’s natural diversity, offering visitors a perfect blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforest and scenic hiking trails all within easy reach. This Pacific coast region serves as an ideal base for travelers who want to experience multiple sides of Costa Rica without constantly changing hotels.

    Beachgoers will find their paradise at Playa Conchal, where the shoreline is famously composed of millions of tiny crushed shells that create a unique pink-white sand. The clear waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the surrounding area maintains a natural, unspoiled feel. Nearby Tamarindo Beach offers excellent year-round surfing opportunities for beginners and experienced wave riders, with its consistent breaks and vibrant beach town atmosphere.

    The region’s infrastructure caters to all types of travelers, from luxury seekers to eco-conscious adventurers. You’ll find everything from high-end resorts and boutique hotels to intimate eco-lodges tucked away in more remote locations. This variety of accommodations makes it easy to craft your ideal Costa Rican experience, whether that means waking up to ocean views or falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest.

    Rewards spotlight: The W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal (pictured above) presents an exceptional value for Marriott Bonvoy members looking to experience luxury in paradise. Located right on beautiful Playa Conchal, it’s tough to beat the location of this property. You can expect to pay between 52,000 and 92,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night—compared with cash rates that can easily be over $700, this hotel represents a great use of points during almost any time of the year. If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees) holder, you can also use your annual free night certificate here (up to 85,000 points with top-ups of up to 15,000 points per night available).

    By Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

    Northland, New Zealand

    Looking out over greenery at Cape Reinga Lighthouse at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. Caroline Lupini

    While international tourists flock to New Zealand’s South Island or crowd around Hobbiton, the country’s northernmost region remains a relatively undiscovered gem. Northland rewards travelers with pristine beaches and dramatic landscapes—all without the crowds that characterize many of the country’s more famous destinations.

    The journey to Cape Reinga (pictured above), at the tip of New Zealand’s North Island, is as memorable as the destination itself. Along the way, stop at Houhora Honey Bees, where you’ll find what might be the best New Zealand meat pies you’ll taste on your entire trip. Serene Maitai Bay offers the unspoiled coastal beauty that New Zealand is famous for, but with a fraction of the visitors you’ll find at more well-known beaches.

    Art lovers should plan ahead to visit the extraordinary Gibbs Farm sculpture park, where monumental artworks stand against the backdrop of rolling hills and harbor views. Animal lovers will want to time their visit to the Muriwai Gannet Colony (check current accessibility due to ongoing restoration work) to witness these magnificent seabirds in their natural habitat.

    Hidden gems like these are scattered throughout Northland, but discovering them requires both advance planning and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. A rental car is essential for making the most of your visit, allowing you to venture off the typical tourist path and discover secluded beaches, scenic viewpoints and local eateries that tour buses never reach.

    Rewards spotlight: While Northland isn’t saturated with major hotel chains, this adds to its charm and authenticity. The Kauri Park Motel is an excellent base for exploring the region, offering comfortable accommodations and a strategic location that makes it possible to explore many of Northland’s attractions as day trips. While you might spend more time in the car depending on your daily destinations, the central location allows you to unpack once and settle in. For the best value, consider using a card like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (rates & fees) by booking through Capital One Travel or booking directly with your card and then using your points to cover the purchase. The card’s rental car insurance benefits will also come in handy for your road trip through the region.

    By Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

    Samarkand, Uzbekistan

    Colorful sunset twilight over the famous Old Town in the City of Bukhara with the iconic Kalyan Minaret and Miri Arab Madressa. Getty

    For Silk Road history, Samarkand delivers with magnificent architecture that brings millennia-old history to life. Registan Square—an icon of the city, country and entire Silk Road—is flanked by three grandiose madrasahs, each richly adorned with colorful tile work and glazed domes that tower over visitors below. The Shah-i-Zina necropolis ensemble and Gur-i-Amir (Timur’s mausoleum) both feature impressive tile work, deep rosettes and intricate woodcarving rivaling masterpieces in any top-tier art museum.

    Unlike Uzbekistan’s other popular tourist destinations, Samarkand also hits the mark for offering the most workshops and other activities beyond simple sightseeing. Various art and cooking classes arranged by the Tourist Information Center bridge today’s culture with the country’s heritage. Galleries, antique shops and bazaars are ready for anyone looking for something unique, and day trips to neighboring mountains and parks offer a refreshing complement to your trip.

    Rewards spotlight: Although you could easily spend a week or more traveling around Uzbekistan, Samarkand’s airport makes it easy to justify a city break when you’re short on time. Flights from Istanbul on Turkish Airlines can be booked using Miles&Smiles, a Capital One and Citi transfer partner.

    By Becky Pokora, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer

    Southeastern Turkey

    View over the historical city of Mardin in Southeastern TurkeyGetty

    Eastern Turkey rarely makes it onto anyone’s travel itinerary, but it offers a fascinating look at some of the country’s oldest history and a diverse medley of cultural influences.

    Start your road trip through the region in Gaziantep, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy known for pistachios, fragrant spices, decadent desserts and more styles of kebabs than you’ll find elsewhere in the country. From there, head east to Sanliurfa, home to the 12,000-year-old archaeological ruins of Gobekli Tepe, which is shockingly undervisited for a site of its significance. A two-hour drive north of there brings you to Mount Nemrut where you can walk amongst giant mountain-top sculptures commissioned in the 1st century B.C. as a tomb-sanctuary. Finish your trip in the ancient city of Mardin, an atmospheric destination that begs you to wander its alleys. Don’t miss the Assyrian monasteries or Dara (Mesopotamian ruins) outside town.

    Reward spotlight: You’ll find Hilton properties in Gaziantep, Sanliurfa and Mardin, making it a reliable choice if you’re looking for a predictable experience with the option to pay with points. Alternatively, look for independent properties with more central locations: Take advantage of hotels with gorgeous courtyards or guesthouses built right into hillside rock cliffs for a more memorable stay. The new One Key+™ Card* can help you earn and redeem points for stays like these booked via Expedia, Hotels.com or Vrbo.

    By Becky Pokora, Forbes Advisor Senior Staff Writer and Caroline Lupini, Forbes Advisor Managing Editor

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