Phú Quốc makes it to the top 15 must-visit destinations before they become mainstream.

Before the 15 destinations listed below become tourist magnets, you should visit them now to experience a peaceful journey and admire the untouched beauty.

One day, you'll proudly say to everyone: 'I knew about this place since...'

1. José Ignacio, Uruguay

With only about 300 inhabitants, José Ignacio gets crowded during the winter season (or South American summer), attracting celebrities like singer Shakira. The newly built luxury hotel, Bahia Vik, is set to open this spring, and José Ignacio is gearing up to host an international art fair. It will take some time for this place to become overly popular, but if you have the chance to come here, you can stroll through impressive art shops and enjoy delicious steak at La Huella restaurant.

2. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

Visitors to this Cambodian island will feel like stepping into a large mirror, thanks to its unexpectedly clear blue waters. With just a few wooden houses, some beach gear, a small fishing village (with no roads), it resembles Thailand 20 years ago, before tourists trampled the pristine beaches. Regular ferries have been bringing tourists to Koh Rong for a few years now, but everything here still remains quite peaceful... until someone plans to build an airport here.

3. Sofia City, Bulgaria

Dubbed as Europe's cheapest tourist city in 2014, the capital of Bulgaria might not remain a secret much longer. Not only famous for being pedestrian-friendly, it's also a vibrant international city, blending medieval churches, bustling outdoor markets, and distinctive Ottoman architecture.

4. Ambergris Caye Island, Belize

Belize is set to become the next hot spot in Central America, and if so, Ambergris Caye will be the most impressive destination. Last year, the travel website TripAdvisor rated it as a 'rising destination,' perhaps because tourists have discovered the immense potential of the Great Blue Hole – one of the largest dive sites on the planet.

5. Myanmar

Myanmar's tourism industry is considered quite 'hot,' with only 300,000 visitors in 2010, but three years later, this number increased to 2 million tourists. Before prices soar, hop on a boat on Inle Lake, explore cave temples, or admire the beautiful sunset at Shwedagon Paya.

6. Roatán Island, Honduras

Roatán may not top the list of favorite beaches in the Caribbean, simply because it's not talked about much. Tourist boats only began stopping at Roatán in 2005 (there have been some recent security incidents, and the country's foreign ministry has issued warnings for travelers to be more cautious, although group travelers are generally safer). However, many tourists feel no fear and still come here to admire the magnificent scenery with underwater rock formations and beautiful beaches, where you can be virtually alone on a vast beach. Flights to Roatán are not frequent, but booking tickets is quite easy. Visit before the 'secret door' is opened.

7. Riga City, Latvia

Latvia is one of Europe's best-kept 'secrets,' but that could all change when Riga is voted as the cultural capital of Europe in 2014. The city is also ranked as one of Europe's cheapest destinations for backpackers this year, with an average cost of about $33 per day, including expenses for food, accommodation, transportation, and entertainment. Come here and be sure to visit highlights like: Old Riga, St. Peter's Tower Street, and the Latvian National Opera House.

8. Puglia City, Italy

Renowned for its delicious dishes for tourists, Puglia is becoming a familiar name for travel enthusiasts. The cuisine here is deeply Mediterranean with the finest local ingredients, unique high-quality restaurants, and the option to stay in family-owned farms.

9. Zambia and Zimbabwe

A place as stunning as Victoria Falls cannot go unnoticed, but recent airport upgrades and expansions have made it easier for thousands of international tourists to explore the natural wonder located on the border of both countries. Nearby, Hwange National Park with its rare wildlife and the world's largest elephant population (over 30,000) is also an enticing reason to visit.

10. York City, England

In addition to the allure of pubs, cafes, and tea rooms (some dating back to the 16th century), York is proud to possess one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. The Tour de France cycling race will pass through this summer, surely drawing tourists to this charming historic city.

11. Busan City, South Korea

If Seoul has become too familiar and mundane, travelers can venture to Busan - a city with many majestic temples. Also listed among the 'rising destinations', Busan boasts impressive art museums, an outdoor bird sanctuary, and markets with delicious fresh seafood. In particular, the Samkwang temple will be brightly lit up on Buddha's Birthday, creating a dazzling and magnificent sight.

12. Manila City, Philippines

Despite its chaotic traffic and poverty, you shouldn't overlook this 'beautifully chaotic' city of Manila. Cost-wise, the average price for a tasty three-course meal in Manila is only $18 compared to $95 in other major urban centers. It's no surprise that backpackers are getting tired of Thailand and starting to explore the Philippines early. You can visit Manila's art galleries, enjoy upscale dining, and visit the shoe museum...

13. Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island serves as a remedy and an excellent choice for travelers when the bustling Halong Bay is crowded with tourists. If you're seeking a place with serene, peaceful, and gentle natural landscapes, then Phu Quoc is a must-visit destination. Rent a motorbike and explore the roads and life around the island, gazing at the vast ocean is something you should do here. Most people agree that Phu Quoc will be the hottest tourist attraction in Vietnam in the near future.

14. Kep City, Cambodia

Although Kep is undergoing a tourism breakthrough, this Cambodian city still maintains its natural charm. Kep has plenty of reasons for travel enthusiasts to explore, especially those who love rustic beach areas. If you're a seafood lover, take a trip to the nearby markets right by the beach, where fresh catches are sold directly on the shore, and you can choose to have them prepared at the humble restaurants here.

15. Salinas Grandes Salt Flats, Argentina

Deep in the desert, you might think the dry lakebed here is covered in snow, but upon closer inspection, you'll be surprised to learn that it's a massive salt flat that resembles a giant mirror whenever it rains. Getting to Salinas Grandes isn't easy, but you can start your journey by crossing the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia, a more famous and heavily visited site.

Source: Huffingtonpost.com

***

Reference: Mytour Travel Guide