Top 5 countries to visit in 2013, that you have likely never heard of

With thirty kilometres of coastline wrapping around the tiny island of Nauru, this overlooked gem of the South Pacific makes for a memorable vacation. Remember: Australian plugs and sockets are used on the island, so grab a converter at the airport before leaving home. Find out more through: Discover NauruThis was a no-brainer. Even though plenty of people have heard of Nepal, hardly anyone actually makes it there. So, choose 2013 as the year to visit one of the world's most stunning countries. The wildlife pictured above, a one-horned rhinoceros, is reason enough — need the landscape even be mentioned?Find out more through: Welcome NepalDrop everything planned for the next year. Now, divert the funds into a trip to Vanuatu, the South Pacific's best kept treasure. This collection of islands offers visitors a vast array of geographical splendours, from beautiful coastlines to raging volcanoes. Take a sea plane ride over the islands and soak up the rich culture.Find out more through: Vanuatu TravelView the list »
Looking down at an island of Vanuatu from a sea plane.

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The title says it all, though these countries may not have been on any bucket lists, they will be after reading this list. From the South Pacific to the western seas off of North Africa, this list is sure to make even the most veteran travellers weak in the knees. So read on, and treat the eyes to five countries that everyone should visit in 2013.

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  • Drop everything planned for the next year. Now, divert the funds into a trip to Vanuatu, the South Pacific's best kept treasure. This collection of islands offers visitors a vast array of geographical splendours, from beautiful coastlines to raging volcanoes. Take a sea plane ride over the islands and soak up the rich culture.Find out more through: Vanuatu Travel
  • This was a no-brainer. Even though plenty of people have heard of Nepal, hardly anyone actually makes it there. So, choose 2013 as the year to visit one of the world's most stunning countries. The wildlife pictured above, a one-horned rhinoceros, is reason enough — need the landscape even be mentioned?Find out more through: Welcome Nepal
  • With thirty kilometres of coastline wrapping around the tiny island of Nauru, this overlooked gem of the South Pacific makes for a memorable vacation. Remember: Australian plugs and sockets are used on the island, so grab a converter at the airport before leaving home. Find out more through: Discover Nauru
  • Though considered a part of Spain, these islands are actually located just off the western coast of North Africa. Lush beaches, natural pools and rolling sand dunes draw thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The Cunard line runs regular voyages stopping at the Canary Islands. Photo: Natural pools, La Maceta, El Hierro  Find out more through: Turismo de Canarias
  • Okay, this island might have sprung up in conversation once or twice, but it is more likely most have not heard of the smallest land mass shared between two countries. That's right, this island is divided into two countries: Saint Martin (the French side) and Sint Maarten (the Dutch side). Although cruise ships frequent the island during Caribbean season, they only dock for an afternoon, so plan excursions during that time.Find out more through: St. Maarten Tourist Office
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, Toronto Travel Examiner

Andrew Lovesey is an Ottawa native currently residing in Toronto. He has written for some of Canada's finest publications including the Globe and Mail, National Post, Canadian Geographic and ELLE Canada. ...

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