National Geographic is a global periodical that covers everything from geography and history to wildlife and science to, of course, travel. It was first published as a scientific journal in 1888.

The website focused on the 30 most fascinating places to travel to in 2024 this week.

The ‘cool list’, penned by Rory Goulding and Connor McGovern, includes locations as far ranging as the Albanian Alps and the Atacama Desert. However, we were particularly thrilled to find two Irish entries on the list: Belfast and the untamed Wild Atlantic Way coast.

As Belfast will be hosting its “long-promised year of culture” in 2024, the magazine points out that the city will be very interesting to tourists.

Considering popular tourist destinations like Titanic Belfast and the numerous Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland, Nat Geo claims that the commemoration will offer an opportunity to “look back on turbulent history with some peaceful distance.”

“Belfast's riverside and maritime legacy will be prominent, with a major boat-building programme among other things. Most specifics are still being kept under wraps.

The birthplace of Van Morrison and the location of more than 80 music venues, will undoubtedly put on a show to remember after being named a UNESCO City of Music in 2021.

Additionally, a partnership with Cornwall's Eden Project will investigate the city's relationship with environment.”

Regarding the Wild Atlantic Way, the authors argue that the west coast's breathtaking sites, such as the Fanad Head lighthouse, Galway's renowned oysters, the Burren, and the charming town of Kinsale, make it one of Europe's most thrilling road excursions.

The journal, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary in 2024, predicts that a slew of novel experiences will propel it to unprecedented levels of popularity.

“The National Surf Centre opened its doors this summer in Strandhill in County Sligo, where the Atlantic swells attract both experienced and beginner surfers. When Queen Maeve Square in the neighbouring town of Sligo is finished later in 2024, it will provide a picturesque location for farmers' markets, artisan fairs, and live music. Construction of the square is moving along quickly along the banks of the Garavogue River.

“Down in County Cork, the final county on the trail, Ireland’s only cable-car has recently reopened after a major upgrade, whisking passengers across the sea from the Beara Peninsula to the windswept silence of Dursey Island in just 10 minutes, a favourite spot for birdwatchers with its guillemots and razorbills.”