Top 5 places to go out of country:

Iceland:

Iceland is one of the hottest travel destinations right now, and while its jaw-dropping landscape of black sand beaches, glacial lagoons, hot springs, steaming volcanoes and endless number of impressive waterfalls make it seem as if it’s a totally different planet, it’s an ideal place to visit for first time international travelers. Iceland is easy to get to, just a four-hour flight from Boston, and Wow Air offers low airfares too, as little as $99 each way. Plus, just about every Icelander speaks English, there’s a strong tourism infrastructure, and crime is practically non-existent.

United Kingdom:

The United Kingdom is an obvious choice for many first-time overseas travelers, as everyone speaks English and there isn’t much in the way of culture shock, but it still feels like a totally different country. It’s also very diverse, so you can spend time in big cities like London or Edinburgh, and enjoy the seashore along the beautiful Cornwall coast or the spectacular Scottish Highlands. Base your stay in London and you can visit iconic attractions in the city like the Tower of London, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, as well as enjoy day trips to places like Windsor, Bath and St. Albans, all within an hour’s reach.

Ireland :

Ireland is not only one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world, the Irish are renowned as some of the friendliest on Earth. The only problem traveling here is that you might get spoiled. Expect to enjoy lots of Irish charm, humor and legendary hospitality, along with the lush emerald hills, a breathtaking coastline, ancient castles and gorgeous lochs. No matter where you go in Ireland, people are more than willing to lend a hand or offer advice, making it especially easy to get around and get learn about the best places to visit. While big cities like Dublin, Cork and Galway are lots of fun, to find the most spectacular scenery, you might want to visit favorites like Dingle, Wicklow National Park, Connemara and the Aran Islands.

Newfoundland, Canada:

Canada as a whole is a fantastic place for a first time international trip. Depending on where you live, it may be just a hop, skip and a jump over the border, and, it’s a safe, friendly and incredibly scenic place, ideal for outdoor adventurers. The easternmost province of Newfoundland is often overlooked, but it may be the very best of all. Newfoundlanders tend to go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome, the crime rate is extremely low and violent crimes are practically non-existent. In fact, many locals still leave their doors unlocked.

Montreal, Quebec:

Montreal offers a unique blend of European and North American culture that makes it easier to visit for those traveling outside of the U.S. for the first time. You’ll discover the best of both worlds: the modernity of North America and its fast-paced life, along with romantic Old World European charms, and nearly 400 years of history. Check out iconic spots like Old Town’s Bonsecours Market, Place Jacques Cartier, Notre-Dame Basilica and Saint-Paul Street, and be sure to take a walk up to Mont-Royal Belvedere, which sits above the skyscrapers and overlooks the whole region, including the mountains of the Eastern Townships. It’s also a great place for foodies, with practically an endless number of outstanding restaurants that serve delicious French cuisine.