Top 10 cool countries to visit

The top 10 cool countries to visit in 2023 are Japan, Iceland, Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, Costa Rica, South Africa, Mexico, Norway and Australia.

 Are you looking for some inspiration for your next travel destination? Well, you’ve come to the right place! As a travel enthusiast myself, I’m always on the lookout for the coolest and most interesting places to visit around the world. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 cool countries to visit in 2023. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a culture vulture, a foodie, or just looking for a change of scenery, there’s something on this list for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and let’s explore some of the most exciting countries to visit in the world.

List of the top 10 cool countries to visit

Japan, the top cool country to visit 

Cool countries to visit
A Japanese woman wearing traditional kimono at Fuji mountain, Kawaguchiko lake in Japan. Photo: Tawatchai07 on Freepik
  • Japan is a unique and fascinating country that offers a blend of ancient traditions and modern technology.
  • The country is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and colorful autumn foliage, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
  • Tokyo, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with neon lights, high-tech gadgets, and delicious street food. According to Economist Intelligence Unit’s Safe City Index, Tokyo is the 4th safest cities in the world.
  • Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, with numerous temples, shrines, and historic sites that showcase the country’s rich heritage.
  • Japan is also popular for its delicious food, including sushi, ramen, and wagyu beef.
    Visitors can experience traditional Japanese hospitality through staying in a ryokan (traditional inn), soaking in an onsen (hot spring), or participating in a tea ceremony.
  • The country has a unique pop culture, including anime, manga, and video games, that attracts many young visitors.
  • Japan is also home to some of the world’s most innovative technology, from high-speed trains to robots and artificial intelligence.
  • Visitors can participate in unique cultural experiences such as watching a sumo wrestling match, trying on a kimono, or attending a traditional festival.
  • Japan is a safe and welcoming country with efficient transportation. 

Iceland

Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park. Photo: Ivan Svaljak, Wikipedia
  • Iceland is a nature lover’s paradise, with stunning landscapes that include glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs. It is one of the most exciting countries to visit in the world
  • Iceland is the safest country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index 2022
  • The country is famous for its breathtaking natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun.
  • The famous Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa that offers visitors a unique and relaxing experience.
  • Iceland is home to several national parks, including Thingvellir National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the location of the world’s first parliament.
  • Visitors can experience Iceland’s unique culture, which includes traditional food such as lamb and fish, as well as the Icelandic language and music.
  • The country’s small population and low light pollution make it an ideal location for stargazing and astronomy.
  • Iceland is an eco-tourism destination, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, whale watching, and other outdoor activities.
  • The country is home to many waterfalls, including the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, as well as black sand beaches and ice caves.
  • Iceland is also a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Star Wars.
  • Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is a vibrant and creative city with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as numerous museums and galleries.

Canada, 3rd best country to visit 

Banff National Park, Canada
Valley of the Ten Peaks and Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Canada. Mountains from left to right: Tonsa (3057 m), Mount Perren (3051 m), Mount Allen (3310 m), Mount Tuzo (3246 m), Deltaform Mountain (3424 m), Neptuak Mountain (3233 m). Photo: Gorgo/Wikimedia Commons
  • Canada is a vast and diverse country that offers a wide range of landscapes, from rugged mountains and forests to pristine lakes and coastal beaches.
  • The country is famous for its outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, and whale watching.
  • Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It has stunning scenery that includes glaciers, turquoise lakes, and soaring peaks.
  • Canada’s cosmopolitan cities, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, offer a blend of culture, history, and modern amenities.
  • The country is popular for its friendly and welcoming people. It has diverse cultural heritage, including indigenous traditions and French and British influences.
  • Canada is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of culinary options, from fresh seafood and maple syrup to poutine and craft beer.
  • Visitors can experience Canada’s unique wildlife, including bears, moose, beavers, and whales, as well as bird watching and stargazing.
  • The country is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Calgary Stampede, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Toronto International Film Festival are the most famous ones. These makes Canada one of the most exciting countries to visit for the festival hunters.  
  • Canada is a safe and welcoming country with a high standard of living, making it an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, and retirees alike.
  • With efficient transportation options, visitors can easily explore Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes. 

New Zealand

  • New Zealand is a stunningly beautiful country that is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, lakes, beaches, and glaciers.
  • The country is a nature lover’s paradise, with numerous national parks and conservation areas that offer opportunities for hiking, skiing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
  • New Zealand is also home to unique wildlife, including the iconic kiwi bird, as well as dolphins, whales, and seals.
  • The country is known for its friendly and welcoming people, as well as its rich cultural heritage, which includes Maori traditions and the influence of European settlers.
  • New Zealand is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of culinary options that feature fresh seafood, lamb, and other locally sourced ingredients.
  • The country is famous for its wine, particularly the Sauvignon Blanc produced in the Marlborough region.
  • Visitors can experience New Zealand’s unique Maori culture through visiting historic sites, participating in cultural events, and learning about traditional arts and crafts.
  • New Zealand is a safe and easy country to travel in, with efficient transportation options and a high standard of living.
  • The country is also famous for its adrenaline-pumping activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting.
  • The cities of Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch offer a blend of culture, history, and modern amenities, making New Zealand a cool and fascinating country to visit.

Portugal

Douro River
The Duoro river flowing through the Portuguese wine region, designated as a World Heritage Site. Courtesy: Wikipedia
  • Portugal is a charming and vibrant country that offers a rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
  • The country is famous for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and scenic landscapes, including the Douro Valley wine region and the Algarve coast.
  • Portugal is a foodie’s paradise, with delicious seafood, pastries, and wines, as well as traditional dishes such as bacalhau (salted cod) and cozido (a hearty stew).
  • The country has a rich cultural heritage, including historic landmarks such as the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza in Guimarães.
  • Visitors can experience Portugal’s unique music and dance traditions, including fado music and the colorful festivals of Carnaval and Festa de São João.
  • Portugal is also famous for its handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and ceramics.
    The country is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, surfing, and golfing.
  • Portugal has a warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal destination for a beach vacation or a winter escape.
  • The cities of Lisbon, Porto, and Faro offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities, making Portugal a cool and fascinating country to visit.
  • Portugal is a safe and welcoming country with a high standard of living. It is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Costa Rica, 5th best country to visit 

View of Tamarindo beach, Costa Rica
View of Tamarindo beach, Costa Rica. Photo: Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz/ Wikimedia Commons
  • Costa Rica is a small Central American country that is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes.
  • The country is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities, including hiking, zip-lining, surfing, and birdwatching.
  • Costa Rica is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and sea turtles. It is a popular destination for eco-tourists and animal lovers.
  • The country is also known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, with many eco-lodges and nature reserves that promote conservation and responsible travel practices.
  • Costa Rica has a rich cultural heritage, including indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial history. You can experience these through visiting historic sites and participating in cultural events.
  • The country is a foodie’s paradise, with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes such as gallo pinto (rice and beans) and ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juice).
  • Costa Rica is a safe and welcoming country with a high standard of living. It is an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, and retirees alike.
  • The capital city of San Jose and the beach towns of Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities.
  • Costa Rica is also famous for its beautiful beaches, including Playa Tamarindo, Playa Conchal, and Manuel Antonio Beach. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • With efficient transportation options, visitors can easily explore all that this cool country has to offer.

South Africa, 6th cool country to visit

  • South Africa is a diverse and fascinating country that offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
  • The country is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the iconic Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, and the Kruger National Park, which is home to the “Big Five” African game animals.
  • South Africa has a rich cultural heritage, including the history of apartheid and the struggle for freedom led by Nelson Mandela. These can be experienced through visiting historic sites and museums.
  • The country is also known for its music and dance traditions, including Zulu music and the colorful Cape Town Carnival.
  • South Africa has a diverse range of culinary options that blend indigenous African and European flavors, such as braai (barbecue), bobotie (spiced meat pie), and bunny chow (spicy curry served in a bread bowl).
  • The country is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, diving, and wildlife safaris.
  • South Africa is also famous for its wine, particularly the pinotage produced in the Cape Winelands.
  • The cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities, making South Africa a cool and exciting country to visit.
  • South Africa is a safe and welcoming country, with a high standard of living and efficient transportation options.  
  • Visitors can also experience South Africa’s unique hospitality through homestays and cultural tours. 

Mexico

  • Mexico is a vibrant and colorful country that offers a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.
  • The country is known for its beautiful beaches, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
  • Mexico has a rich cultural heritage, including pre-Columbian ruins such as Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. It is also home to some famous colonial cities like Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende.
  • The country is also famous for its music and dance traditions, including mariachi music and the colorful festivals of Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo.
  • Mexico is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary options that blend indigenous Mexican, Spanish, and other Latin American flavors, such as tacos, tamales, mole, and ceviche.
  • The country is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, fishing, and diving.
  • Mexico is also famous for its tequila and mezcal, which are produced in the states of Jalisco and Oaxaca, respectively.
  • The cities of Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities, making Mexico a cool and exciting country to visit.
  • Visitors can also experience Mexico’s unique hospitality through homestays and cultural tours. These facilities offer opportunities to connect with local communities and learn about their customs and traditions.

Norway

View of Geirangerfjord, Norway
View of Geirangerfjord, Norway. Photo: Andreas Trepte/ Wikimedia Commons
  • Norway is a stunningly beautiful country that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor adventures.
  • The country is known for its majestic fjords, including Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Nærøyfjord. These fjords offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing and make Norway an exciting country to visit.
  • Norway has a rich cultural heritage, including Viking history and traditional Sami culture, which can be experienced through visiting historic sites and museums.
  • The country is also famous for its music, including the works of Edvard Grieg and the annual Bergen International Festival.
  • Norway is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary options that highlight local seafood, game meats, and traditional dishes like lutefisk and rakfisk.
  • The country is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, hiking, fishing, and dog sledding.
  • Norway is also famous for its scenic railway routes, including the Flam Railway and the Bergen Line. Journey along these rail routes offer stunning views of the countryside.
  • The cities of Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities, making Norway a cool and exciting country to visit.
  • Norway is a safe and welcoming country, with a high standard of living and efficient transportation options. 
  • Visitors can also experience Norway’s unique hospitality through homestays and cultural tours. 

Australia, 10th cool countries to visit

  • Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers stunning natural beauty, a unique culture, and a relaxed lifestyle.
  • The country is known for its iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Uluru, and the Great Barrier Reef, which offer opportunities for sightseeing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
  • Australia has a rich indigenous culture, including the Dreamtime stories of the Aboriginal people. These can be experienced through visiting cultural centers and guided tours.
  • The country is also famous for its music and arts scene, including the annual Sydney Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
  • Australia is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary options that highlight local seafood, game meats. Traditional dishes like meat pies and sausage rolls are also very popular among food lovers. 
  • The country is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for surfing, hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
  • Australia is also famous for its wine regions, including the Barossa Valley and Margaret River, which produce world-class wines.
  • The cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities. These makes Australia a cool and exciting country to visit.
  • Australia is a safe and welcoming country, with a high standard of living and efficient transportation options. 
  • Visitors can also experience Australia’s unique hospitality through homestays and cultural tours. These facilities offer opportunities to connect with local communities and learn about their customs and traditions.

Summary of the top 10 cool countries to visit 

Here are the top 10 cool countries to visit in 2023

  1. Japan
  2. Iceland
  3. Canada
  4. New Zealand
  5. Portugal
  6. Costa Rica
  7. South Africa
  8. Norway
  9. Mexico
  10. Australia

These are just a few of the many amazing countries that are worth visiting in 2023. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone on this list. So start planning your next trip and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

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