17 Best Places to Travel in 2026 That Aren't Completely Overrun With Tourists

8. Tasmania, Australia: The Island of Inspiration

Tasmania, Australia's island state, offers an extraordinary concentration of wilderness, world-class art, and culinary excellence that rivals any destination globally while maintaining a refreshingly uncrowded atmosphere that allows for intimate encounters with both nature and culture. Known locally as "Tassie," this heart-shaped island features some of the world's cleanest air, most pristine wilderness areas, and most innovative cultural institutions, including the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which has revolutionized how art museums engage with visitors through provocative exhibitions and immersive experiences. The island's commitment to conservation is evident in its World Heritage wilderness areas, which cover over 20% of the landmass and protect ancient rainforests, alpine landscapes, and unique wildlife including Tasmanian devils, wombats, and echidnas found nowhere else on Earth. Tasmania's emerging reputation as a culinary destination is built on exceptional local produce, including world-renowned whisky distilleries, cool-climate wines, fresh seafood, and artisanal products that reflect the island's clean environment and innovative food culture. Visitors can explore the dramatic landscapes of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, walk through ancient forests in the Tarkine wilderness, and experience the raw beauty of the Three Capes Track, one of the world's great coastal walks. The island's compact size allows travelers to experience diverse ecosystems and cultural attractions within short distances, while its isolation from mainland Australia has preserved both its natural environment and its distinct cultural identity that blends convict history, Aboriginal heritage, and contemporary Australian innovation.