17 destinations every man must visit – This International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day is the perfect moment to celebrate men with experiences that fuel adventure, wellness, bonding and self-discovery. Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel highlight 17 destinations that offer a blend of thrill, culture, luxury and unforgettable memories.

1. A Father–Son Adventure in New Zealand

New Zealand is built for memorable father–son bonding. Hike the stunning Hooker Valley Trail, cruise the magical Milford Sound, or kayak across the turquoise waters of Abel Tasman. Add a touch of fantasy with an exclusive after-hours tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, then look up at the Tekapo skies — among the clearest in the world — for an unforgettable stargazing session. And for pure adrenaline, nothing beats racing through canyons on the iconic Shotover Jet.

2. The Boys’ Getaway to Abu Dhabi

Fast cars, golden deserts, beaches, and world-class theme parks make Abu Dhabi a top pick for a boys’ trip. Spend your days racing the Formula Rossa at Ferrari World or experiencing the thrill of karting at Yas Marina. For something extraordinary, take the wheel of a supercar on the Yas track itself. As night falls, head into the desert for a private falconry session under starlit skies, followed by an after-dark art stroll through the beautifully lit galleries of Louvre Abu Dhabi. Cap it off with a mind-bending immersive experience at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, where digital art, light, and interactivity blur the line between reality and imagination.

3. A Wellness Reset in Bali

Bali’s energy is calming, transformative, and deeply grounding. Start your mornings with sunrise yoga before trekking up Mount Batur for panoramic views. After your descent, unwind in natural volcanic hot springs. Indulge in a traditional Balinese purification ritual at Tirta Empul, then sink into a sound-healing meditation session held in a serene bamboo dome. Between floating breakfasts in infinity pools and spa therapies, Bali becomes the ultimate reset button.

4. A Food Trail in South Korea

South Korea is a paradise for food lovers where every street corner holds a culinary surprise. Devour sizzling Korean BBQ, wander through Myeongdong’s buzzing street food lanes, and warm up with bowls of spicy kimchi jjigae. Make your own kimchi during a hands-on session with local experts or explore night-time pojangmacha tent bars like the locals do. For the ultimate gourmet experience, head to Jeonju — UNESCO City of Gastronomy and is famous as the birthplace of bibimbap.

5. Trek the Himalayan Foothills in Himachal

Himachal offers powerful treks that blend challenge with tranquillity. Whether you choose Triund, Parvati Valley, or Kareri Lake, you’ll find cedar forests, wide valleys, and breathtaking views. Spend the night camping under the Milky Way, warming up with hot pahadi meals beside the fire. Join a guided forest-bathing walk or spend the afternoon learning mountain survival basics from local shepherds — an experience that connects you deeply to the Himalayas.

6. High-Octane Thrills in Australia

Australia is adventure paradise. Dive alongside manta rays at the Great Barrier Reef with marine biologists guiding your underwater journey, then ride a Harley Davidson along the dramatic Great Ocean Road with the wind in your face. For a true thrill, go quad biking across the vast Stockton Sand Dunes and try your hand at sandboarding down steep golden slopes. From skydives to surfing, every day brings a new rush.

7. A Luxe Cruise with the Boys

Cruises offer the perfect blend of fun and relaxation without the hassle of hopping hotels. Spend your days at sea enjoying world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, casinos, and onboard activities. Elevate your evenings with private sunset dinners on deck or sign up for an expert-led mixology class. When the ship docks, choose immersive shore excursions — from Thai cooking lessons to dune bashing in the Middle East — making every port a fresh adventure.

8. The Ultimate Football Pilgrimage: Europe

For football fans, Europe is the ultimate dreamscape. Walk through the legendary players’ tunnels at Wembley, Santiago Bernabéu, or Camp Nou, exploring stadiums steeped in history. Experience the electric atmosphere of a live Premier League or La Liga match, especially if you book an exclusive hospitality box. Off the field, explore football heritage cities like Manchester, Turin, and Porto — where the sport is more than a game, it’s a way of life.

9. A Road Trip Across Sri Lanka

Few destinations offer the ease, scenery, and warmth of Sri Lanka — now visa-free for Indians. Drive from Colombo’s urban pulse to the beaches of Galle and Mirissa, stopping for sunset whale-watching cruises that bring you close to the giants of the sea. Head to Ella for the iconic train ride to Kandy, often called one of the most beautiful journeys in the world. In Nuwara Eliya, follow a tea expert through lush estates for a masterful tasting session.

10. A Wildlife Escape in Kenya

Kenya is raw, majestic, and profoundly moving. Begin with dawn rising over the Maasai Mara from the basket of a hot air balloon before touching down for a champagne breakfast in the wild. Spend your days spotting the Big Five with expert guides and your evenings dining under an open sky during a traditional bush dinner. Visit a Maasai village for cultural immersion and learn warrior techniques passed down through generations.

11. A Design & Culture Journey Through Japan

Japan blends creativity, craftsmanship, and modern culture in a way few destinations can. Wander through Tokyo’s stylish enclaves like Daikanyama and Nakameguro, home to indie menswear studios, vinyl stores, and minimalist cafés. Dive deeper into Japan’s artisanal heritage with knife-forging workshops in Kyoto or gold-leaf studios in Kanazawa. Add a curated whisky, beer, sake tasting at renowned distilleries, then conclude in Hokkaido — where dramatic landscapes and Tadao Ando’s serene architectural works leave a lasting sense of wonder.

12. Urban Thrills and Clean Luxury in Singapore

Singapore is sleek, stylish, and perfect for a quick yet refreshing men’s escape. Challenge yourself with indoor skydiving at iFly Sentosa before ending the day with a speakeasy-style private cocktail masterclass. Head to the Night Safari for a ranger-led after-hours wildlife experience or cruise around Marina Bay on a luxury sunset yacht. And for motorsport fans, the high-tech F1 simulator lets you race the Singapore circuit like a pro.

13. A Desert Odyssey in Morocco

Morocco is a sensory feast and a playground for explorers. Begin in Marrakech’s vibrant souks, where the scent of spices and the rhythm of street performers set the tone. Ride camels into the golden dunes of the Sahara for a night under the stars in a luxury desert camp. Explore the cinematic landscapes of Aït Benhaddou, then wind through the Atlas Mountains on a rugged 4x4 trail. For a cultural deep dive, join a Berber cooking class or learn the art of Moroccan tile-making in Fez.

14. Island Adventures and Muay Thai in Thailand

Thailand offers the perfect mix of adrenaline and serenity. Train in authentic Muay Thai gyms in Phuket or Koh Samui, cool off with cliff-jumping and snorkeling in the emerald waters of Krabi. Zip through Bangkok’s buzzing streets on a tuk-tuk food tour or take a longtail boat to hidden lagoons, beach barbecue and fire show at Koh Phi Phi. For a spiritual reset, meditate with monks in Chiang Mai or hike to the misty peaks of Doi Inthanon. And when the moon is full, head to Koh Phangan for its legendary Full Moon Party—an electrifying beach bash with music, neon paint, and dancing till sunrise.

15. Alpine Escapades in Austria & Switzerland

Experience the best of the Alps with an unforgettable escapade through Austria and Switzerland. In Austria, thrill-seekers can ski the legendary slopes of St. Anton and Kitzbühel, paraglide over Tyrolean peaks, or unwind in panoramic thermal spas like Aqua Dome. Vienna offers refined indulgence with classical concerts, cigar lounges, and bespoke tailoring, while Salzburg’s salt mines add a dash of underground adventure. Cross into Switzerland aboard the scenic Glacier Express, winding past alpine valleys to St. Moritz. In Zermatt, marvel at the Matterhorn while skiing or savoring fondue in a cozy chalet. For a touch of luxury, explore Geneva’s watch ateliers or enjoy lakeside whisky tastings in Lucerne. From canyoning in Interlaken to heli-skiing in Verbier, this alpine journey blends elegance, adrenaline, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

16. Philippines

With over 7,000 islands offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy, the Philippines is an ideal destination for an action-packed getaway. Surf enthusiasts can chase world-class waves in Siargao, while divers explore the pristine coral gardens of Palawan. In the capital city of Manila, travelers can hop aboard a jeepney to sample local street food and cycle through the historic district of Intramuros. Angeles City, known for its energetic nightlife and culinary scene, offers a lively urban escape with a mix of entertainment and heritage. For those seeking outdoor thrills, the rice terraces of Banaue provide breathtaking trekking routes, and cliff diving in Moalboal delivers an adrenaline rush against a stunning coastal backdrop. As the sun sets, Boracay’s beachside parties come alive with music and energy, making the Philippines a dynamic blend of adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

17. Vietnam

Vietnam’s blend of natural beauty, street energy, and coastal calm makes it a thrilling pick for a boys’ adventure. Ride motorbikes through the winding passes of Ha Giang or kayak through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. In Ho Chi Minh City, dive into the chaos of Ben Thanh Market or sip craft cocktails in rooftop bars with skyline views. For a taste of Vietnam’s legendary nightlife, head to Hanoi’s Beer Street (Ta Hien), where the sidewalks overflow with locals and travelers clinking glasses of Bia Hơi late into the night. For a laid-back finale, fly south to Phu Quoc—Vietnam’s island gem—where you can snorkel in turquoise waters, feast on fresh seafood at night markets, and catch a blazing sunset from a beachside hammock.