5 Destinations To Discover Before Everyone Else Does

Oman might already be on your radar for its vibrant, history-rich capital. Beyond Muscat, though, it has one of the most varied landscapes of any of the Gulf countries. Tucked into the far south of the Sultanate, Salalah feels worlds away from the desert-and-dunes image most travelers associate with Oman. During the annual khareef monsoon, the surroundings turn improbably lush: coconut palms thrive, waterfalls appear and the coastline takes on a tropical softness more reminiscent of Zanzibar. Overlooking a UNESCO-listed archaeological park and a long, powder-soft beach, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is utterly polished, low-slung luxury, with pool villas, destination dining and a spa versed in Omani wellness rituals. Alila Hinu Bay is another fantastic choice, nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Dhofar Mountains, in a secluded 45-hectare site away from the masses. Come for frankincense trails and empty beaches; stay to discover an Oman few tourists ever see.

Travelers to Mexico tend to circle the same coordinates. Cabo, Cancun, Tulum, repeat. The country’s vast coastline rewards those willing to look just that little bit harder. On the Pacific edge of Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido offers a wilder proposition: no cenotes or glassy Caribbean calm, but muscular surf, salt-heavy air and a still-authentic haven for those avoiding the tourist crowds. Long beloved by boho backpackers and committed surfers, the town has quietly leveled up in recent years. Design-forward stays such as Casona Sforza and Hotel Terrestre bring architectural restraint and barefoot luxury, while private boat charters and increasingly exclusive beach clubs give daytime activities some extra shine too.

For those tired of the well-worn tourist loops of Bali or Lombok, Sumba feels like one of Southeast Asia’s last true frontiers. It is a vast, sparsely populated island, with a tapestry of still-acknowledged tribal traditions, as well as a landscape of rolling savannah hills and white-sand beaches. The waves that crash over reef and point breaks give it a global reputation among surfers, but despite that, it has very little of the crowds that define Indonesia’s more famous destinations. Just because it’s under-discovered doesn’t mean it isn’t luxurious. At NIHI Sumba, the 27 villas with private pools offer award-winning design and discreet service. Meanwhile, Lelewatu Resort rests on dramatic clifftops above nine pristine beaches, giving you panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. If you want somewhere with a real Sumba authenticity, while still operating at the height of luxury, then Cap Karoso resort and farm should be your go-to.

Japan sits at the top of many travel wish lists, and while most itineraries will include at least a couple of its famous and widely varying cities (all brimming with brilliant food, cultural hotspots and historical wonders), it is well worth going a little farther to explore the country’s idyllic islands, too. In the subtropical Okinawan archipelago, Miyako boasts picture-perfect beaches and rich coral reefs that are teeming with sea turtles and colorful fish. It is on Miyako Island that Rosewood makes its Japanese debut, unveiling an ultra-luxury resort where turquoise waves lap at miles of pristine sand. The 55 villas all have their own private pools, landscaped gardens and dreamy ocean outlooks, while the hotel’s dining options keep to the natural wonder of the island setting, celebrating laid-back, beachfront vibes.

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