Lonely PlanetJul 15, 2026The 8 destinations pro travelers say ruin all othersSometimes a life-changing trip is just as damning as it is magnificent, ruining you for any trip you eventually take. These destinations are worth that sacrifice.15 things in this storyKimberley regionNeighborhoodRegion in Western Australia with stark contrasts.ElsewhereGreeceSightAthens, GreeceDestination that ruins all others.Andes MountainsSightSantiago, ChileHigh mountains for skiing.Laguna del IncaSightSantiago, ChileCrystal blue lagoon below the high Andes.Maipo ValleyNeighborhoodSantiago, ChileBirthplace of Chilean wine.MontanaNeighborhoodHelena, United StatesSummer destination for outdoor adventures.YellowstoneSightGardiner, United StatesNational park in Montana.Yasuní National ParkSightCoca, EcuadorAmazonian Ecuador park that brings visitors to tears.Amazonian EcuadorNeighborhoodCoca, EcuadorEco-lodge with spider monkeys and paddle canoes.El Questro StationSightEl Questro, AustraliaWestern Australia station with reds, greens, waterfalls.Ngorongoro CraterSightArusha, TanzaniaWorld's largest unbroken volcanic caldera with abundant animals.CambodiaSightPhnom Penh, CambodiaAmazing people, food, and culture.SicilyNeighborhoodPalermo, ItalyBeautiful island with kind people and great views.Aegean SeaSightAthens, GreeceTonlé Sap LakeSightPhnom Penh, CambodiaRead the full piece at Lonely Planet →
