{"id":97192015,"date":"2024-10-24T14:59:37","date_gmt":"2024-10-24T14:59:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/?p=97192015"},"modified":"2024-11-26T22:21:26","modified_gmt":"2024-11-26T22:21:26","slug":"the-10-best-destinations-for-first-time-international-travelers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/the-10-best-destinations-for-first-time-international-travelers\/","title":{"rendered":"The 10 Best Destinations for First-Time International Travelers"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re pondering the possibilities of putting your passport to good use with a first time trip beyond the borders of the USA, then this list is for you. Have a look (and dream big) as we share our 10 favorite countries perfect for folks traveling internationally for the first time.<\/p>\n<h2>Canada<\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-16.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192028 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-16.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-16-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-16-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Visiting America\u2019s northern neighbor is an ideal way to establish some international cred quick and easy. And even though <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-canada-ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Canada<\/a> is probably the country in the world that\u2019s most similar to the United States, you invariably will be surprised by how different things can be up there (that\u2019s especially the case in French-speaking Quebec). For the uninitiated, Canada\u2019s vast natural beauty can surprise you as well. World-class skiing and whale watching in British Columbia, nights out on the town in cosmopolitan Toronto, tracing the ancient trails of Viking explorers in far-flung Newfoundland&#8230;what\u2019s not to love, eh?<\/p>\n<h2>Chile<\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-15.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192027 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-15.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-15.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-15-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-15-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>The border and coastline of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-chile-cl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chile<\/a> traces a long and skinny sliver along South America\u2019s western shore. This means that this friendly and economically stable Spanish-speaking country is home to a variety of beaches and landscapes, including the high plains desert of Atacama, some of the most dramatic peaks in the Andes, and the wild and surreal Patagonia in the far south. Interspersed among all this natural beauty are Chile\u2019s famed vineyards, scenic seaside towns such as Valparaiso and Vi\u00f1a del Mar, and the bustling capital city of Santiago.<\/p>\n<h2>France<\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-13.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192026 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-13.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-13-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-13-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Famous for its fine wine, haute cuisine, amazing art, rich history, and of course its own distinctive <em>joie de vivre<\/em>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-france-fr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">France<\/a> has been winning over the hearts of its foreign guests for centuries. From its rugged Atlantic coast to the west, its majestic Alps in the east, and the sunny Mediterranean coast to the south (and a whole lot of wine country in between), France is also one of the easiest countries to travel through (no matter how <em>mal<\/em> your <em>Fran\u00e7ais <\/em>might be) with good airports, rail links, roads, and ports of call<em>. <\/em>Whatever you\u2019re into, odds are they\u2019re doing it with panache in France.<\/p>\n<h2>Ireland<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192299 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/ireland-countryside.jpg\" alt=\"ireland countryside\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/ireland-countryside.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/ireland-countryside-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/ireland-countryside-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>For many Americans that \u201cOld Country\u201d experience they crave so much awaits them on the Emerald Isle. Whether catching an impromptu live music performance in a country pub in County Kerr, shopping for farm fresh treats in the famed food markets of Cork, or discovering Dublin\u2019s ancient past, visitors to the compact <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-ireland-ie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Republic of Ireland<\/a> are often astounded by the love and pride the Irish have for their culture and how cheerfully accommodating they are when sharing it with those visiting from abroad. An ideal time away from the US most certainly can be yours with nary a hassle had in Ireland.<\/p>\n<h2>Italy<\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192024 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-11.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-11-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-11-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>As the saying goes, all roads lead to Rome. But why stop there when the same said <em>autostrada<\/em> also leads to the storied canals of Venice, the glamorous boutiques of Milan, the otherworldly beauty of the Amalfi Coast and\u2026we could go on (and on) about all the fabulous places to visit in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-italy-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Italy<\/a>. But perhaps it\u2019s best to sum things up by saying no other country offers such accessible depth to understand European culture and \u201cThe West\u201d than Italy. Plus, the food\u2019s fantastic, the beaches are wonderful, and practically everybody walks around looking effortlessly like they\u2019re fashion models.<\/p>\n<h2>Mexico<\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-10.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192023 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-10.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-10-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-10-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Similar to what we were saying a few paragraphs above about Canada, going to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-mexico-mx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mexico<\/a> is an equally easy and affordable way to become an instantly international jetsetter. But surely there must be other reasons to head south of the border beside the opportunity to say you\u2019ve traveled abroad? Well, amigo, how about some of the tastiest food on the planet, arguably the world\u2019s best beach resorts, and ancient Aztec and Mayan ruins for starters? Seriously, for bang-for-your-buck, phenomenal hospitality and a memorable time away, it\u2019s hard to beat Mexico.<\/p>\n<h2>New Zealand<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-9.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192022 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-9.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-9-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-9-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Hey, if it\u2019s good enough for Gandalf (and for all the <em>LOTR<\/em> and <em>Hobbit<\/em> films to be shot there), then <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-new-zealand-nz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New Zealand<\/a> is good enough for you, especially if you\u2019re an outdoors lover who likes a bit of adventure. The country\u2019s mostly rural (and largely wild) South Island is New Zealand at its most scenic with ginormous mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rainforests. As far away and exotic as New Zealand may seem, they still speak English as the first language, have a coffee culture second to none, and most importantly, go out of their way to make visitors feel at home and welcome.<\/p>\n<h2>South Africa<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-8.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192020 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-8.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-8.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-8-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-8-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If the wonders of an African safari isn\u2019t reason enough to travel the world, what is? Sure, you\u2019ll have plenty of options for unbelievable encounters with wildlife across the African continent with some of the best safaris going in Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, and Botswana. But <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-south-africa-za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South Africa<\/a> is probably the best bet for less experienced travelers still keen to have a safari experience. The country\u2019s infrastructure is the most developed in Africa and there\u2019s a quality, top-rated safari outfitter catering to almost all budgets and expectations. Beyond the chance to see lions, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and more in their natural habitat, SA\u2019s big draws include the fun-loving and panoramic city of Cape Town, the surfer culture of the eastern coast, and one of the world\u2019s most stunning landscapes.<\/p>\n<h2>Thailand<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-7.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192019 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-7.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-7-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-7-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s hard to think of a destination as welcoming as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-thailand-th\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thailand<\/a> or hosts more gracious than the Thai people. The big city lights of Bangkok beckon those seeking urban thrills. Indeed, it often tops the list of most visited cities in the world. For a more meditative vacation, there\u2019s the upland serenity of Chiang Mai. Thailand\u2019s beaches are among the most gorgeous and beloved in Asia as well \u2013 whether you\u2019re looking for a nonstop full moon party or a quiet get-away-from-it-all holiday. Wherever you venture in Thailand you\u2019ll find a hospitality industry geared to making sure you have a lovely time enjoying all this friendly and fun country has to offer.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>You Might Also Enjoy: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/beautiful-philippine-islands-accessible-from-manila\/\">Beautiful Philippine Islands That Are Accessible from Manila<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h2>United Kingdom<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-6.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97192018 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-6.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-6-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Untitled-design-6-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>With its many tiny villages and megacity London, England is one of the world\u2019s most dynamic destinations. But that\u2019s just one part of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/flights\/cheap-flights-to-united-kingdom-gb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">United Kingdom<\/a> equation. There\u2019s Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to consider too. And all of them are definitely worth considering for your first overseas itinerary. As is the case with mostly anywhere, it\u2019s the people who make the place. No matter if you\u2019re in Edinburgh, Belfast, Manchester, or Cardiff, you\u2019ll feel welcomed by the Brits. Nevertheless, the pretty countryside, eons of history, and a vast array of attractions mean the UK is ideal for any and all travelers looking for a memorable trip.<\/p>\n<h2><em>FAQs:\u00a0<\/em><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Q: What is the best time of year to visit these destinations? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: The best time varies by destination. Generally, spring and fall are ideal for most places due to mild weather and fewer crowds. For instance, Canada is lovely in summer, while Chile is best in its Southern Hemisphere summer (December to February). Research specific events or seasons for each country too!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: Do I need a visa to visit these countries as a U.S. citizen? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Most of the listed countries do not require a visa for short visits (usually up to 90 days) for U.S. citizens. However, some exceptions exist, like Mexico requiring an FMM form. Always check the specific entry requirements for each country before traveling.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What vaccinations or health precautions should I consider before traveling? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Vaccination requirements vary by country. For example, some destinations may recommend vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. It&#8217;s best to consult with a healthcare provider or check the CDC&#8217;s travel health website for specific recommendations based on your destination.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What currency is used in these countries, and should I exchange money in advance? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Each country has its own currency\u2014Canadian Dollar (CAD), Chilean Peso (CLP), Euro (EUR) in France, and so on. It\u2019s convenient to exchange some money in advance, but ATMs are widely available for local currency withdrawals.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What safety tips should first-time international travelers keep in mind? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Always keep copies of your travel documents, avoid displaying valuables, and be aware of your surroundings. Use reputable transportation and accommodations, and trust your instincts. Research the safety situation of your specific destinations prior to traveling.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: How can I stay connected while traveling internationally? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Consider getting an international phone plan from your provider, purchasing a local SIM card, or using Wi-Fi when available. Many airports, cafes, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi, which can help you stay connected during your travels.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What should I pack for my international trip? <\/strong><br \/>\nA: Essentials include a valid passport, comfortable clothing for various climates, universal power adapters, personal toiletries, medications, and travel insurance documentation. A small first-aid kit and lightweight luggage are also advisable for easier travel.<\/p>\n<p><em><b>Do you have your own recommendation for a first-time international traveler? Tell us about it in the comments below!\u00a0<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re pondering the possibilities of putting your passport to good use with a first time trip beyond the borders of the USA, then this list is for you. Have a look (and dream big) as we share our 10 favorite countries perfect for folks traveling internationally for the first time. Canada Visiting America\u2019s northern [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":32,"featured_media":97192029,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1018],"tags":[342,2055,623,392,1067,572,50,1171,889,1207,2968],"class_list":["post-97192015","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-international-destinations","tag-canada","tag-chile","tag-france","tag-international-travel","tag-ireland","tag-italy","tag-mexico","tag-new-zealand","tag-south-africa","tag-thailand","tag-united-kingdom"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/97192015","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/32"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=97192015"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/97192015\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97226804,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/97192015\/revisions\/97226804"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/97192029"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=97192015"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=97192015"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cheapoair.com\/miles-away\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=97192015"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}