A good deal of flexibility and a bit of caution would be the first things to pack if we're thinking about traveling again. 

Little by little, some borders are reopening. Among them are Chile’s. And the desire to visit other places and break out of the routine is returning. 

Where should our next trip be? Somewhere exotic and far away? One of those classic destinations we absolutely have to visit at least once in our lives?

In the cultural webinar “Opening of Borders,” held last Thursday, July 29, we discussed five alternative destinations for all types of travelers. 

Here's what they were: 

South of India lies a teardrop-shaped island nation. It is Sri Lanka (until recently known as Ceylon). It offers beaches for every taste, timeless ruins, plenty of elephants and wildlife, and a highland region that the British covered with tea plantations. A destination where natural beauty, history, and culture abound.

Something closer? Something more traditional? It might be one of Europe's best-kept secrets: Slovenia. It’s one of the smallest countries (it could fit inside Chile thirty-seven times) and, probably, one of the most charming as well. A perfect destination for nature lovers. Forests, lakes, and rivers that have served as backdrops for films like *The Chronicles of Narnia*, underground caves, castles, and even a walled city with Venetian influences on the Adriatic coast are just some of its treasures—and all within easy reach. From its capital, Ljubljana, you can visit any of the country’s wonderful landscapes and cities in a single day.

Jordan. In its capital, Amman, you can experience a fascinating blend of the legacies left by Bedouin nomads, Roman legionnaires, Crusaders, and Byzantines—to name a few—alongside a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. And further south lies the lost city of Petra, one of the wonders of the Ancient World. It’s one of those places that reminds us of Indiana Jones—a destination every traveler dreams of visiting at least once. Petra is an astonishing city that remained hidden for centuries until the Swiss explorer Burckhardt discovered it in 1812.

Very close to Jordan, another one of those must-see destinations before you die: Egypt. Marvel at what remains of a civilization that was already ancient and advanced when the Greeks and Romans were just beginning to develop. Cruise down the Nile and remember that Cleopatra and other immortal pharaohs sailed down that very river many times. 

Visit Colonial Mexico between October 28 and November 2 is much more than just a trip—it’s an experience! During this time of year, Mexico celebrates “Day of the Dead,” one of the country’s most iconic and well-known festivals. Death is commemorated in a unique way, full of colors and traditions. Cemeteries are filled with flowers, candles, and visitors (especially during nighttime vigils), and every corner is adorned with altars and offerings to welcome deceased relatives, who are believed to return to earth during this time to visit their loved ones. 

Magdalena Guzmán

Journalist and Master of Political Science. 

Organizer of Group Tours to Asia and the Middle East.