After traveling to over 40 countries around the world, I think everyone should visit these 5 underrated spots

My husband and I did a three-month backpacking trip through South America in 2012. Beforehand, we were so excited about seeing the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ticking off Machu Picchu, and checking out Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.

Although we loved all of those places, we were also pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed Colombia, with its warm people, lush scenery, and vibrant architecture.

In Salento, we explored coffee estates and did an amazing hike in Cocora Valley, home to the Quindío wax-palm trees. We couldn't get over how green everything was.

But the colorful city of Cartagena was by far one of the highlights of our South American adventure. We spent countless hours walking the streets, admiring the multicolored colonial facades, and taking in the Caribbean vibes.

Note that the State Department has a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory in effect for Colombia, updated as of January. Wherever you travel, it's important to stay up to date on the latest conditions, which often vary even within countries.

When we traveled to Laos, we were blown away by the genuine, kind-hearted people and spectacular natural scenery.

Our favorite place we visited in this Southeast Asian country was Kuang Si Falls, where swimming is permitted in certain parts of the three-tiered, turquoise waterfalls.

Another thing we loved about Laos was the fresh and delicious food. After a day of exploring, we'd head to the local markets for some larb — a meat-based salad flavored with mint leaves, fish sauce, lime juice, and chiles.

My husband and I traveled to Malta during a trip to London. The country had always been on my list of places to visit, as my grandfather was stationed there during World War II.

For such a small island nation, Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. For example, the walled capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We loved wandering its streets and taking in the fortifications, churches, and Baroque architecture.

Visiting the Blue Grotto, which is a series of sea caves, was also breathtaking and a highlight of our trip.

Zimbabwe is home to some extraordinary natural beauty. One of the most popular attractions is Victoria Falls, the world's largest curtain of falling water. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means "the smoke that thunders."

We ended our day at the falls with drinks at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. As we enjoyed our cocktails, we watched the African wildlife come in for a drink.

Later, we headed to The Boma for dinner and a drum show. The buffet featured every type of game meat imaginable.

My husband and I traveled to Morocco with his parents in 2013. Arriving in Marrakesh was a real culture shock for his folks, who were from country Victoria in Australia.

There was so much to see, from the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to the donkeys cruising up and down streets.

The highlight of our trip was a tour of a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert, complete with a camel trek. We ate chicken tagine under the stars and chatted with our host about life in the desert. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I'll never forget.