Photo travel destinations to visit in 2014 from travel bloggers

 

It’s always difficult to choose where to travel on vacation that is spectacular, unique and a photo travel destination worth visiting for it’s amazing vistas, cultural sites, food, people – the whole package, if you get where I’m coming from. So to help inspire you to travel somewhere in the world that hasn’t been on your radar, I asked some fellow travel bloggers and photographers to share some fantastic places that are worth visiting in 2014 and must see places to visit and capture for photography.

 

Hope this will inspire you to visit any of these locations or just go and explore a place that has always been on your bucket list to visit, enjoy!

 

Tasman Glacier in New Zealand

Tasman Glacier in New Zealand

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Aoraki/Mount Cook holds a special place in my heart because our visit was the first time that I had ever seen a glacier. The frozen landscape literally gave me shivers, the scale and magnitude of the mountains and the gargantuan sheet of ice itself served to highlight just how powerful Mother Nature truly is. The glacial landscape which has forged a divide between the south island’s rugged west coast and the more sedate flat lands of the east, provide a wealth of photo opportunities for those willing to explore its remote terrain.

Visit Charli Moore’s website at http://wanderlusters.co.uk

 

 

 

SONY DSC

 Zhangjiajie, China

There is a place in China, in Hunan province, where the scenery will take your breath away. It is called Zhangjiajie and it has been favored by Mother Nature, trust me. It is an incredible city located in northern part of Hunan Province, undiscovered by foreigners. Have you ever heard of the movie Avatar? If so, you should know what I am talking about as it was filmed there! Zhangjiajie and its Hallelujah Floating Mountains.

In 1992, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site for the sake of its beauty and specialty. You must be wondering why the mountains are called “floating”. When it gets foggy, they really look like they were floating in the air and moving from the left to the right. This is something incredible and you can feel like if you were in Pandora. The sandstone pillars are up to 1000 meters high so you can just imagine how massive they must look, not only in the picture, but also in real life.

Agness is a Polish travel blogger well known for travelling the world for less than $25 per day and
she shares her tricks and tips with the readers of her blog called eTramping.com

 

kicker rock scaled

kicker rock scaled

Kicker Rock, Galapagos

The shot is of Kicker Rock in the Galapagos, just off San Cristobal Island. It offers some of the best snorkelling and diving – on the day we were there we saw manta rays, hammerhead sharks, turtles, black tip reef sharks, and many many more! For more shots like this, check out our landscapes of the Galapagos photo essay.

Laurence Norah (http://www.findingtheuniverse.com/2014/01/in-photos-landscapes-of-galapagos.html)

 

Photo travel destinations to visit in 2014 from travel bloggers around the world

Patagonia

Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the only places on Earth where I have felt like the wilderness is truly uninhibited. The vast wilderness, endless breathtaking panoramic views, mixed with the flora and fauna make it one of a kind. Few make it down to the bottom of the Earth, but those who do will be rewarded with unending beauty. And for those only using Chile as a launching pad to visit Antarctica, take the time to explore the vast wilderness of Patagonia before or after, you will not be disappointed. With tourism on the rise all over the world, take the time to truly explore Chile and Patagonia, before it begins to lose its charm.

Jeff Johns & Marina Dominguez
Latitude 34 Travel Blog http://www.latitudethirtyfour.com

 

 

 

Sabah, Borneo

Sabah, Borneo Photograph by Anne Sterck

Sabah, Borneo

The Lower Kinabatangan River is in the heart of Sabah, one of Malaysia‘s two provinces on the island of Borneo. If it sounds exotic and wild, it’s because this part of the world has yet to be overrun by cheap package tours. This is an adventure destination, for independent-minded travelers who don’t mind roughing it a bit – only a bit – to get at its rewards: rich rainforest, abundant wildlife (like this pair of insect-seeking pigtail macaques), and fascinating (and endangered) indigenous groups. I saw plenty of monkeys, an orangutan, a monitor lizard, a family of proboscis monkeys and untold birds – and that was in a single afternoon. Yes, there are plenty of little beasties around but you can keep them away… Little can match the quiet of gliding down a primeval river, surrounded by nature, watching the tree leaves move, the branches sway, and hundreds of animals go about their daily existence.

Visit Leyla Giray Alyanak’s blog at http://blog.women-on-the-road.com

 

 

TanzaniaKenya

TanzaniaKenya

 

Kenya / Tanzania

Our African safari to Kenya and Tanzania with Micato Safaris was an amazing adventure. Before this, we had only seen animals caged in zoos. It was exciting to see them pass in front of our vehicle (like this elephant in Serengeti National Park). It was also amazing to bear witness to the interdependence of different species who mingled together.

Visit Irene S. Levine’s blog at MoreTimeToTravel.com

 

 

Sahara Desert landscape

Sahara Desert landscape

Sahara Desert, Morocco

Morocco is full of awesome cities and beaches, but one of the most inspiring places I visited in the country was the Sahara Desert. After a two-hour camel trek into the desert and watching the sun go down over the dunes, the sky lit up with more stars than I’ve ever seen in my life. About an hour later, I watched the moon rise over the horizon, illuminating the red dunes once again. My experience in the Sahara was definitely one of the best of my life, and should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Megan Smith at www.meganotravels.com
Abbazia di San Galgano Capturing la Vita

Abbazia di San Galgano Capturing la Vita

San Galgano Abbey, Tuscany, Italy

When asked about one of my favorite photographic spots, I immediately thought of the Abbey of San Galgano in Tuscany, Italy. The Abbey was built in the 13th century, however, in 1781 the already decaying roof caved in. What remains is one of the most enchanting locations in Tuscany for photographers. The abbey stands alone behind a gorgeous field of sunflowers, with a backdrop of the hilly Tuscan countryside. Upon your first step inside, you will find yourself taken by its mystical nature. The raw architecture juxtaposed against the open sky leaves the photographer with endless inspiration and possibilities.

Laurel Perry at www.capturinglavita.com

 

 

Matera

Materia, Italy

Despite having no expectations or knowledge on the region, we could see there was something uniquely beautiful about Matera. The architecture and style reflected the rich history. Founded in the 3rd century BC, it has been conquered many times, survived devastating earthquakes and endured political turmoil. Filmmakers have also used it as a setting for ancient Jerusalem, including Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ. Its worth a stop for some sunrise photography through the unique and spectacularly scenic town of Matera.

Erin Bender at www.travelwithbender.com

 

 

A typical Welsch landscape

A typical Welsch landscape

Wales

Wether you’re looking for a good hike, extreme sports or photography, Wales has something for you. The 1400-ish kilometers long trail of its coastal path offers you the most beautiful landscapes as you can see in this shot of Trefin’s cliffs at the golden hour.

Karl Delandsheere at http://hobography.net/en/

 

Sardinia and Costa Esmeralda

Sardinia and Costa Esmeralda

Sardinia and Costa Esmeralda

I love Sardinia, not only for amazing sailing and Italian ‘La Dolce Vita’.  The colours are seducing. All possible shade of blue and green,  you can’t take your eyes away from the water, neither your camera! Add beautiful sailing boats, charming cities and you will have one of the most picturesque place on Earth. Above is my swimming spot, Villasimius Beach in Sardinia.  It’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The water is crystal clear, warm and inviting.  If you love beaches and archaeology as much as I do, you’ve got to check it out.
Marysia Maciocha, check out my blog at http://www.mytravelaffairs.com

 

Sardinia coast line

Sardinia coast line

Sardinia

If you’re not beachy, don’t fret, there’s plenty for you too. This island has something for everyone.  If you like the outdoors, go trekking, climbing, diving, windsurfing or cycling.  If you’re a foodie, the seafood is some of the freshest I ever had and because of all the goats, there’s a lot of delicious cheese.  It’s also extremely safe for the solo traveler.

Cathy Goldner at www.solo-travelers-alliance.com.

 

Ubud, Bali a procession

Ubud, Bali a procession

Ubud, Bali

“You won’t be in the spiritual town of Ubud in Bali, Indonesia long before you learn that traffic slows down several times a week to allow the Hindu processions to pass through. Everything in Bali moves at such a languid pace that it hardly seems an inconvenience to park yourself on the sidewalk for a while and watch the papier-mache elephants dance past, along with the elaborately decorated girls in lace dresses, wearing make-up as bright as the bouquets of flowers they carry. Like everything else in Bali, the traditional ceremonies of Ubud are a thing of beauty to behold.”
Tasha Hacker at www.TurfToSurf.com
Changmai and elephants

Changmai and elephants

Chang Mai, Thailand

When I visited Chiang Mai, I resisted taking a “hokey” elephant ride. Then I got talked into it–and I loved it! Elephants rock you from side to side until you feel that you’re going to fall off at any moment. When you recover from laughing, you will notice that your elephant has stopped short to test out a piece of grass for a brief snack along the route. Needless to say, my first experience riding elephants was not my last!

Diane Renee Ransdell at http://drransdell.blogspot.com

 

 

Thailand

Bangkok,Thailand

One place in the world a travel blogger will not want to miss is SE Aisa. I suggest to start in Bangkok, Thailand.  Bring your camera and take a ride down the Chao Phraya River on your first day just to get the lay of the land.  Also, stop by the Temple of Dawn on the west banks.  There is definitely a photo opportunity there.  Eat Lunch on the street or tuck inside of Sala Rattanakosin for a great view of the Temple.

Dr. Cacinda Maloney at http:///www.pointsandTravel.com

 

 

delicate arch b

 

Moab, Utah

The Delicate arch is a symbol of the state of Utah.  It was originally known as the “Cowboy chaps,” which really does look like the leather leg covers used by ranchers.

This view of the Delicate Arch shows the La Sal Mountains in the background.   The 1.5 mile hike from the Wolfe Ranch parking area to the arch is marked with cairns (small stacked rocks)  to show the way.  The walk is without much shade, so be sure to bring plenty of water.

Visit Neva Fels travel site at  http://retireforthefunofit.com

 

 

Xunantunich

Xunantunich

Belize

The entire country of Belize is a gorgeous destination with photo opportunities everywhere you turn.  The mainland offers towering ancient Mayan ruins, verdant rain forests and the wildlife that comes with them, and happy locals sitting on the porches of their stilted homes.  The cayes provide white sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, and bright, colorful island homes.  And since Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world, its waters offer even more exciting opportunities for the underwater photographer.

 Katherine Belarmino

Visit my travel blog Travel the World at http://www.katherinebelarmino.com

 

 

Iceland_skogarfoss

 Iceland

Iceland is a magical playground for any landscape photographer. While it may not be the most colorful or lush island — painted predominantly black with volcanic rock and ash, capped with white in winter and a low green mantle in summer — it’s a land of astounding texture and topography, from the intricate formations of small rocks found in the lava fields to the dramatic mountains and glaciers rising and blanketing the island. If you’re keen on waterfalls, Iceland has them in spades. Photogenic creatures such as the small-stature Icelandic horses and the birds and seals along the coastline are another delightful feature. And of course, in winter, the opportunity to witness and photograph the northern lights is one of the most special ones our planet has to offer.
Shara Johnson at SKJtravel.net
Taking in the sunset at the Atacama Desert in Chile

Taking in the sunset at the Atacama Desert in Chile

Atacama Desert, Chile

One of the best destinations for photography that I visited in 2013 was without a doubt the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. Covering an area of 1000 kilometres and located west of the Andes mountain range, the Atacama Desert is known as the driest place in the world. There are many beautiful salt lagoons, volcanoes and surreal landscapes. So it’s really not surprising that NASA has used this region to test some of the equipment for its missions to Mars. But it’s not only the landscapes that are special here, the skies are also remarkable; with clear skies that allow for awesome stargazing!
Bianca Bauza at http://www.nomadbiba.com

Labuanbajo Sunset

Labuan Bajo, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

“Labuan Bajo lies on the westernmost coast of the island of Flores in Indonesia. Known best as the gateway to Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo sees a fair number of tourists, but at heart it’s still a small fishing village. The vibe is laid-back and people are exceptionally friendly. Highlights for us included exploring the national park, scuba diving and some of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve seen anywhere.  With tourism growing fast, there are  accommodation and dining options to suit all budgets. Labuan Bajo is also a good jumping-off point for adventures to the interior of the island, with interesting archaeological and historical sites.”


Tamara & Donny with TurtlesTravel at http://turtlestravel.com
Hampi, India

Hampi, India

Hampi, Karnataka, India

Hampi was my favorite place in India. A small village, surrounded by rice fields, bizarre boulders and fresh water lakes. Probably the most relaxed place in India. Theimageis taken on top from the Monkey TempleinHampi.

Photo Credit: Sabrina Iovino | www.JustOneWayTicket.com

 

Istria skyline

Istria skyline

Istria, Croatia

From rolling hills, charming seaside & hilltop towns, vineyards, and olive groves Istria is the new place to go. This heart-shaped penisnula located in the northern Adriatic region of Croatia offers charming coastline and rustic hinterland. Given its size, the both can be enjoyed in the same day. Istria is heaven for food, wine and cycling aficionados.

 Vera Br at   http://www.frankaboutcroatia.com/croatia-travel-guide/istria-croatia/

 

 

Trebinje

Trebinje

Bosnia & Herzegovina

I had heard that Trebinje was a beautiful city but I wasn’t prepared for how stunningly beautiful it actually is. It might be a small city but there is plenty to keep trigger-happy photographers busy: The mountains, waterside, small market place, the Old Town from the Ottoman period, the Ottoman bridge (Perovica Most), and Hercegovacka Gracanica where the Serbian Poet, Jovan Ducic is buried.  It’s only about 20 miles from Dubrovnik and definitely worth visiting.
 Teresa Keane  My link is http://independenttravelhelp.com

Turkey

Turkey

Turkey is a photographer’s dream. From the historic treasures of Istanbul to the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, the old cities of Central Anatolia and the heritage listed Mount Nemrut, the hamsi fisherman on the Black Sea, and the historic ruins of Ephesus there is something for everyone!   I haven’t even mentioned the local markets at the small villages dotted around the country, the friendliest people I have ever met and some of the best food you’ll ever eat!

Jenny Freedman

Join me on a journey of travel and food http://atasteoftravelblog.com

Hagia Sofia

Hagia Sofia

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Hagia Sophia is a unique mixture of architectural, cultural and religious styles.  Originally built as a Christian Church in the early Christian days of Constantinople, it later become a mosque.  Unlike most churches to become mosques, the Christian motifs and symbols were kept in Hagia Sophia.  Now a museum owned by the Turkish government, Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most visited sites.  While it is terribly photogenic, with glorious art and light at every turn, my advice is to take some photos, then put your camera away to soak in the atmosphere and sheer beauty of this magnificent testament to religious architecture, art and tolerance.
Water villa Maldives
Water villa Maldives

The Maldives

“If you dream of visiting powdery white sand and clear idyllic beaches, the Maldives is where you’ll want to visit this year. This archipelago isolated in the Indian Ocean was once an exclusive getaway for the rich and famous. However, tourism is going to increase this year as many budget airlines are beginning to fly there, helping to make paradise a bit more affordable.”
Beth Williams at www.besudesuabroad.com
Mesa arch, Canyonlands National Park

Mesa arch, Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

No need to be a real photographer to get this shot. Just make sure you get
up in the middle of the night so you are right on time to see the sunrise
behind Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park, Utah. By far the most
spectacular place for sunrise pictures we have ever been to…Antonette our website is http://we12travel.nl
Windows at Fort Union

Windows at Fort Union

Fort Union National Park, New Mexico

Sometimes a place doesn’t get discovered. Fort Union National Monument, part of the vast National Parks network, is one of these and it’s a gem. Located in the middle of nowhere, about an hour-and-a-half northeast of Santa Fe off I-25,, it is worth a visit if you’re in the area. We’d driven past it many times on our way to and from Colorado and never stopped until a few years ago. Now it’s one of my favorite spots in the area. This old Union Army supply depot and fort, built in 1851 along the Santa Fe Trail, was a major supply station until the railroad arrived in 1880. After that, most supplies were shipped via rail. Fort Union was closed in 1891.The original buildings, made of stone and adobe, were left to deteriorate in the high desert sun. Today, what remains are stark and eerie adobe and stone silhouettes against a Rocky Mountains background. Fort Union is a photographer’s dream. Grab your camera and go!

Billie Frank, see the post at http://www.santafetravelers.com/our-travels/new-mexico-travels/fort-union-santa-fe-trail/

Ecuador, Galapagos
Ecuador, Galapagos

Galapagos

I’ve picked the Galapagos islands, the archipelago of volcanic islands situated about 1,000km of the Ecuadorian coast, as my must see photo worthy destination of 2014. The endemic species and variety of nature on the island group will make these islands a favourite for nature and wildlife photographers of every level. There are so many beautiful places and animals there, that it’s hard not to use your camera continuously, the animals are in no hurry and will happily pose for you! 

Where many people opt for multiple day cruises to visit the different islands, we decided to stay at the island Santa Cruz and stay a couple of days here, which was a great way to spend some quality time with giant tortoises, while visiting El Chato Tortoise Reserve, and seals and iguanas,  that were laying randomly on the streets in Puerto Ayora day and night. As each island is inhabited by different endemic species, we also took some day-cruises to different islands like North Seymour and Isabela to see unique wildlife, like blue-footed boobies, frigates, hammerhead sharks, turtles, penguins and iguanas.

Lydian Brunsting Founder/ photographer at http://www.shoutography.com/

 

 

 
Curacao Panorama

Curacao Panorama

Curacao

Curacao is our favorite Caribbean island for many reasons, but one of the main reasons we love the island is because of its unique beauty and a multitude of adventurous activities.  The landscape ranges from oceanside cliffs, beautiful beaches with crystal clear water and thriving coral reefs, and a mountain with amazing views from the top; because the island is generally dry you will also find cactus in the mist of beautiful flowers. Last but not least, the small towns provide a great look into island life as well as many unique photo opportunities!
Jenna & Micah from Wander The Map, http://www.wanderthemap.com
Cong Ireland-Ashford Castle-School of Falconry-

Cong Ireland-Ashford Castle-School of Falconry-

Ashford Castle, Ireland

One of my favorite discoveries in Ireland was taking a Hawk Walk at Ashford Castle.  The castle itself was the original draw, but the hawk experience turned out to be the fondest memory.  This picture depicts my husband, Gene, getting acquainted with our hawk, Inca–the first Peruvian hawk in Ireland.  Our guide was very cooperative and helpful in setting up shots and suggesting the best spots for me to stand.  I also managed to get some excellent videos of the experience.  In addition to photographing the hawk walk, ancient Ashford Castle is spectacular for photographs and the adjacent village of Cong is quite colorful.

Carole Terwilliger Meyers at  http://www.travelswithcarole.blogspot.com

Ranrapalca Mountain

Ranrapalca Mountain

Ranrapalca Mountain, Andes – Peru

Morning sunrise on 6000+ meter Ranrapalca mountain in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru’s high
Andes. I was with several friends attempting to summit the pyramidal shaped nearby 6000 meter
Toclaraju and upon waking from our camp one morning we were greeted with clear skies and stunning views
of all the nearby high mountains including this one. This was one of those very special trips that only
happens a few times in a lifetime – a unique connection and bond between great friends and great
mountains. For sheer stunning mountain scenery few places in the world boast as picturesque high
altitude scenery as this part of Peru. Visitors do not need to climb the mountains but can still enjoy
mountain scenery by taking any of a number of day trips outside of Huaraz, the main city in the region
located at approximately 3000 meters.
Lake Bled

Lake Bled

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia is one of the most picturesque cities and lakes that I’ve ever visited. With the bright blue water reflecting the forested hills surrounding the lake, it seems as though you’ve stepped into another world. Situated in the middle of the lake is Slovenia’s only natural island,  Bled Island, with a small church built on it. The combination of the church on the island with Bled Castle  perched on a steep cliff in the background makes for a stunning scene. This is a photo looking down from Bled Castle towards the lake and surrounding forests.

Adelina Wong at www.packmeto.com

 

Photo travel destinations to visit in 2014 from travel bloggers around the world

Kauai, Hawaii

A highly photogenic destination I would highly suggest to travelers is Kauai, Hawaii.  The Na Pali coastline, featured in the photo, is one of my favorite places in the world, with its dramatic mountains and valleys, secret beaches, and plunging hidden waterfalls.  Whether exploring the coast by air via helicopter, or by sea via sailboat or catamaran, there is always so much to discover.  Make 2014 the year you go!  If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask away! :)Jessica from http://www.apassionandapassport.com
Panama-City-Sunset

Panama-City-Sunset

Panama city

It is a truly spectacular place to visit and we think it’s a must do before it becomes too much more commercialised. It’s a fantastic friendly city with a beautiful historic quarter called Casco Viejo, with gorgeous old crumbling spanish style buildings. Some have been restored to their former glory housing new hotels and restaurants, and others are held together with scaffolding and lived in by poor families, open to the street. This contrasts with the ultra modern developed city where new futuristic skyscrapers are going up constantly and are lit up nightly. This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal, which is spectacular in its own right. Panama City is surrounded by rainforest which makes for great photo opportunities of crocodiles, monkeys, tropical birds and local rodents the size of dogs in very close proximity.
Justine Stewart-Crompton at http://www.roomcritic.com/
Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest

Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of the most captivating cities I’ve ever visited. Located on the Danube River and filled with stunning architecture and iconic landmarks, it is photogenic from many vantage points and it would be very difficult for me to pick a favorite view. But this view of the Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) from the Royal Palace on Castle Hill is one that often comes to my mind when I think of Budapest. Taken at dusk, the photo also exemplifies for me the mystique of Budapest that I feel when I’m there. The bridge is not only beautiful, but it’s a very important site in the city’s history. There are eight bridges in Budapest, but the Chain Bridge was the first to link the cities of Buda and Pest. Count István Széchenyi was the visionary behind construction of the bridge which began in 1842 and was completed in 1849, built by a Scotsman named Adam Clark. The bridge made possible the union of the two cities to become one in 1873. In 1945, it was largely destroyed by the Germans in the Siege of Budapest. It was rebuilt in its original design and reopened in 1949. Also seen in this photo is another of Budapest’s grand landmarks, the illuminated dome and bell towers of St. Stephen’s Basilica, a neoclassical gem with a history of its own.

 Catherine Sweeney at http://travelingwithsweeney.com/

Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko

Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko

Nikko, Japan

There are so many places in Japan to visit and are worthwhile places to experience the amazing beauty, history and environment. Nikko exemplifies all of these attributes and more – the natural landscape is mostly in its natural state with gorgeous panoramas, historic Unesco World Heritage sites, charming towns and wonderful hot springs to relax after a busy day of exploring the area. If you are a lover of nature and also historic sites and architecture, then put Nikko along with many other amazing places in Japan on your bucket list, its a must see for those that love to do photography and also enjoy an exciting and exotic country.

 

I’m loving all these travel destinations from around the world and a few that I need to put on my bucket list of places to visit soon! I hope that this has inspired you to maybe see any of these locations and visit my fellow travel bloggers websites above.

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