TripAdvisor today revealed the top trending travel spots for 2017, with the laid-back city of San Jose del Cabo in Mexico taking out first place in the world rankings.

This is the fifth year of the Travellers’ Choice awards for Destinations on the Rise, and TripAdvisor has recognised 43 destinations world-wide with new hot-spots revealed across Europe, Asia and South America.

The Travellers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise list offers plenty of options for Aussies seeking inspiration for new places to visit in the new year,” said Joanne Kershaw, TripAdvisor spokesperson.

“Travellers can choose from these award-winning locations featuring pristine beaches, historic cities and natural wonders, all of which are emerging in popularity among the TripAdvisor community as a result of their highly-rated options for places to eat, play and stay for travellers,” Kershaw added.

1. San Jose del Cabo, Mexico — Only 20 miles south of the lively Cabo San Lucas, Jose San Jose del Cabo is a quiet alternative for those seeking a spot of peace and tranquility. The Las Ventanas al Paraiso hotel is a top-pick among TripAdvisor users, situated near the charming San Jose del Cabo main square filled with restaurants, art shops and historical landmarks such as the parish church of San Jose del Cabo and the Town Hall.
2. Whistler, Canada — Just a short trip from Vancouver, Whistler boasts rugged beauty and outstanding skiing opportunities. For the thrill-seeking traveller, make sure you check out Peak-to-Peak Gondola, the world’s longest and highest gondola ride, stretching 4.4 kilometres between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
3. Jericoacoara, Brazil — Best known for having one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, travellers to the remote Jericoacoara can take their time to explore the village’s unspoiled beaches, saunter down streets paved with sand and admire the sunset at Duno do Por do Sol for a “must-see experience in Jericoacoara.”
4. Kihei, Hawaii — Located on Maui’s western shore, the Maui Coast Hotel (seasonal average of A$337 per night when booking on TripAdvisor) is a “great hotel with easy beach access” for visitors wanting to dive, swim and sun themselves on Kihei’s white-sand beaches. Travellers can visit the Red Line Rafting Co., for a fantastic snorkelling adventure” and explore Hawaii’s rich marine life.
5. Baku, Azerbaijan — Situated along the Caspian Sea, Baku is an interesting mix of Asian and Western cultures, of the old and new, all of which are best reflected in the city’s sights and landmarks. Hailed as a “must-visit” is the famed medieval Old City Baku, which houses the UNESCO-listed Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower.
6. El Nido, Philippines — Known as the Philippines’ last frontier, El Nido in Palawan is perfect for travellers seeking a ‘tourist-less’ experience. Ranked as Asia’s second best beach in this year’s Travellers’ Choice awards, the off-the-beaten-path Nacpan Beach is every travellers paradise! Book to stay in a water cottage overlooking the sea at the El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island on TripAdvisor for $550 per night.
7. Eilat, Israel — Perched on the shores of the Red Sea, Eilat’s tropical weather, beaches, national parks and desert provide the perfect environment for a whole range of outdoor recreational activities. Indeed, travellers looking for “amazing desert landscape” can discover authentic desert flora and fauna through hiking and biking at Timna Park.
8. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain — The capital of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is nestled amid two bays and the beautiful beaches of the Playa de las Canteras and Playa de las Alcaravaneras. History-lovers can enjoy the capital’s historical and cultural heritage through a walking tour of Vegueta, the oldest quarter of the town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And why not put your feet up at the spacious and comfortable rooms at Reina Isabel Hotel for A$240 per night on TripAdvisor.
9. Tbilisi, Georgia — In the capital of Georgia, travellers can saunter down the brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where they can taste Georgian food and wine to their heart’s content. Rest at the “hip and chic” Rooms Hotel Tbilisi for a seasonal average of $237 per night when booking on TripAdvisor.
10. Jodhpur, India — The second largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a reflection of the royal lineage it has witnessed for centuries! Majestic forts and palaces, including remnants of the glorious past, adorn the landscape of this popular tourist attraction. Ratan Vilas, bookable on TripAdvisor at $75 per night is a mansion from the 1920s that has been beautifully refurbished into a hotel and “provides a wondrous setting to recharge and enjoy its magnificent setting”. Travellers can also visit the impressive Mehrangarh Fort which is one of the oldest forts in India and offers “sweeping views of the Blue City”.