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Barbados
The Caribbean islands have suffered terribly after hurricane Irma hit the region this past September, some of them having been hit with more devastating force than others. Fortunately, Barbados has been saved from most of the damage and is still looking as gorgeous as ever. So if you’re looking for a sun-and-sand destination for the winter, this Eastern Caribbean island is a wonderful choice. The island boasts some of the best, most stunning beaches I’ve seen, with gentle waves perfect for swimming and a very picturesque coastline, from the golden sands of the Caribbean Sea to the West and the more dramatic rocky shores of the Atlantic to the East.
Nonstop flights from North America’s East coast makes the island easy to get to for a quick vacation, and if you can spend a bit more time on the island you’ll find a ton of activities to do from strolling the historic Bridgetown streets to visiting the green monkeys in the Wildlife Reserve. Barbados has a rich and fascinating culture, some absolutely delicious food and a rum punch that goes to your head like a chorus from a Rihanna song. Barbados is without a doubt an ideal destination for 2018 and I couldn’t recommend it enough!
More Barbados Inspiration
The Best Things to do in Barbados
Catherine Benoit- The Go Fever
Provence, France
Provence is a destination with a timeless allure, but if you’ve been dreaming of visiting the South of France 2018 should be the year to make that happen! From the iconic flowering lavender fields to the charming hillside villages, to the dramatic natural landscapes of the Calanques, Ochre mines and the Verdon Gorge – Provence will leave you spellbound.
Provence’s most famous festival – the Festival d’Aix – is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2018. And while July is always an excellent time to visit the old capital of Provence, the charismatic city of Aix-en-Provence comes to life even more with the melodic sounds spilling from every open space during the music festival. And if classical music is your thing, then the Piano festival of La Roque-d’Anthéron is a must-do during the summer months also!
For those who want the bustling city life, Marseille delivers a hefty dose of culture. If dazzling coastlines and stunning beaches are more your thing, the seaside towns of Cassis and La Ciotat may be just the ticket. And if you envy the ease of rural village living – head to the Luberon for the regions finest villages. There’s really something for everyone in Provence – I often describe it as the perfect destination!
Nadine Maffre- Le Long Weekend
The Maldives
Carretera Austral, Chile
The Carretera Austral is a scenic road in a remote part of Chilean Patagonia. Snow peaked mountains all around, turquoise lakes and countless glaciers. It’s a popular place for locals and lesser known by international travelers. If you like kayaking, hiking, glacier trekking, mountain biking or rafting this is the place to be.
More than 1,000 km in length, it offers endless stops and photo opportunities. Although Patagonia is usually an expensive place to visit, Carretera Austral is a bit easier on the wallet. Our favorite places include Queulat national park and Cerro Castilo for hiking, Puerto Rio Tranquilo for visiting Marble caves and glacier trekking, Park Patagonia to go even further off the beaten path and Villa O’Higgins, a truly special place where the Carretera Austral has a dead end and only pedestrians and cyclists can continue further by boat and cross-border to Argentina.
Carretera Austral, Chile Hotels
Maya Steiningerova- Travel with the Smile
Lake Bled, Slovenia
This romantic lake in western Slovenia, home to the only island in this small country located between Croatia and Italy, is deservedly popular with tourists. A steady stream of visitors arrive daily to Lake Bled, particularly over the summer, eager to take a traditional platna boat out to the island and its picturesque church, before perhaps taking a stroll around the lake’s shores (a short and easy 6km loop) or heading up to the castle and its birds eye views. But stay for a longer while, and it’s the perfect base to explore the surrounding Julian Alps region, named by Lonely Planet as one of the Top 10 Regions to visit in 2018. In every direction in this wild and mountainous region are equally stunning lakes, gorges and canyons thundering with sparkling turquoise rivers, plentiful waterfalls fed with icy mountain streams, hair-raising mountain passes for travelers on two- or four-wheels, and countless opportunities for hiking.
Shandos Cleaver- Travelnuity
Tulum, Mexico
Bologna, Italy
Bologna, Italy is one of the most underrated cities in the world. Its curious nickname “La Dotta, La Grassa, e La Rossa” honors the best this central Italian city has to offer: La Dotta, or the educated, refers to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. La Grassa, or the fat, refers to Bologna’s renowned cuisine, some of the best Italian food in the world. La Rossa, the red, refers for the stunning red buildings and rooftops made of clay. Yet for all its medieval charms, it remains relatively unknown by tourists. Located between Venice and Florence and just an hour from both, Bologna is often overlooked as a destination by travelers on their quest to see Italy’s most iconic landmarks, which is precisely the reason you should go. It’s an authentic working city with friendly people, and one of the most amazing food scenes in Italy. Home to pignoletto wine, balsamic vinegar, parmigiano reggiano, and prosciutto ham, as well as the new FICO Eataly World which opened in 2017, it’s easy to see why Bologna should be high on any foodie’s 2018 bucket list!
Lori Sorrentino- Travlinmad.com
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA
Malta
The stunning archipelago of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, just south of Sicily. The country’s most popular attractions can be found on its three largest, inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino.
The capital city of Valletta boasts a unique architectural style, perfectly-manicured gardens and exceptional viewpoints. The main island of Malta also gives home to the country’s longest beach (Mellieha), the tall Dingli Cliffs and the fascinating Blue Grotto sea cave. Despite the fact that the Azure Window collapsed in the spring of 2017, Gozo is still frequented by plenty of tourists. The Neolithic temples of Ggantija, the Roman Catholic Basilica of Ta’Pinu, along with the Bays of Ramla, Xlendi and Dwejra are just a few of the most-visited sites here. The island of Comino is known for the Blue Lagoon, a long and narrow bay with crystal-clear waters and one-of-a-kind scenery.
The country’s Mediterranean climate ensures good weather throughout the year, making Malta a perfect place to visit even during low season. Let’s not forget that Valletta is the European Capital of Culture this year, so the city will definitely offer plenty of awesome events in 2018.
Adrienn Takacs- City of the Week
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Visiting Victoria Falls, the mighty waterfall on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, was definitely one of the highlights of our three-month trip to Southern Africa this year. Most people only head to one side or another of the falls but we recommend visiting them from both Zimbabwe and Zambia as the two are very different – in Zimbabwe you’ll be right opposite the falls, whereas from the Zambian side you can get closer to the edge, and even swim in the famous Devil’s Pool of you’re game! If Devil’s Pool is on your list make sure to time your visit to avoid the time when the waters are at their highest (April-August) as access to Devil’s Pool is not allowed.
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
San Sebastian, Spain
Ireland’s Ancient East
Ireland has just won the award for best destination by Travel Weekly for the fourth year running. However, Dublin is not the destination in demand! The hot tip for 2018 is to get out of the city and head to the Ancient East for local stories, wholesome yet modern meals from field to fork, delicious drinks from pip to sip, and a flashback to the past of Kilkenny, Kildare and Tipperary. Delve into 5,000 years of history during Ireland’s Ancient East road trip.
Gemma Armit- Two Scots Abroad
Antarctica
If you have a sense of adventure and enjoy wildlife and natural beauty, then you should visit Antarctica in 2018. The White Continent consistently shows up on many travel bucket lists and rightfully so. I dreamt about travelling to Antarctica for years and when it finally happened it was even better than what I expected. With a landscape full of icebergs, glaciers and icy waters, Antarctica is beautiful, amazing, breathtaking and magnificent beyond what any words can describe. Unless working in a research station, visits are only possible during Antarctic summer, from November through March. The best way to travel to Antarctica is on an expedition cruise which offers landings but you will have to brave the famous and seasickness inducing Drake Passage. Although remote and off the beaten path, there is no shortage of incredible things to see and do in Antarctica. Visitors have numerous opportunities to view the scenery and the diverse wildlife including seabirds, whales, seals, and various species of penguins. Active travelers can hike, kayak, do a polar plunge and even camp overnight on some trips. Antarctica is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but you will most likely want to return.
Find out more about cruises to Antarctica
Matilda Ge- The Travel Sisters
Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb, Croatia is a perfect city to put on your travel itinerary for 2018. Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, yet it has long been overshadowed by other major cities in Croatia like Dubrovnik…Game of Thrones anyone? But, not anymore. Tourists are now just beginning to realize just how awesome Zagreb is with its distinct urban city feel and those classic European cobblestone streets. While in Zagreb you will explore the upper and lower towns that divide the city until your stomach begins to grumble, then it’s timefor the absolute best gorgonzola gnocchi of your life on Tkalciceva, a huge street filled with restaurants and bars. The city’s vibrancy is further manifested in its beautiful parks, flower markets, and attractions like the Museum of Broken Relationships. Although Zagreb is inland, it’s the perfect gateway to other parts of Croatia like the Plitvice Lakes and Istria .
Jennifer Aspinwall- World on a Whim
Inle Lake Myanmar
Vancouver Island, Canada
Sarajevo, Bosnia
Sarajevo will take you by surprise, particularly if your preconceptions linger from the 1990s war. There’s no doubt the war was devastating; there is still much evidence of it to be seen in this storied capital city. But Sarajevo, which has been under eight flags since the 15th century, is much, much more. Its meld of Slav, Ottoman and Hapsburg history is unlike any other European capital. There’s the famous Latinski Most, the bridge where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the spark that lit WWI. Once known as “the Jerusalem of Europe,” the city’s religious spires are equally split between Christian churches and Islamic mosques. The walled labyrinth of market streets in the Bascarsija bazaar, which dates back to the 15th century, will captivate you. Most of all, the unbridled optimism and determination here creates a unique and youthful vibrancy which visitors find compelling and inspiring. Sarajevo has been reborn and now is the perfect time to visit!
Betsy Wuebker-passingthru.com
Western Australia
Western Australia really doesn’t get the attention it deserves compared to it’s East Coast rivals. Often thought of as harder to travel, with large areas of uninhabited land and long driving distances between towns, deciding to travel in WA means setting off on a journey you’ll never forget. There are stunning beaches along the coast, incredible natural wonders such as the Pink Lake, Wave Rock & the Pinnacles, and amazing animal encounters available at every turn. With Whale Sharks & Manta Rays at Ningaloo, Pods of Dolphins at Monkey Mia, quokka’s on Rottnest and the Camel Parade at Cable Beach – it’s an animal lovers dream and one I can’t wait to experience in 2018.
Vicki Garside- Make Time to See the World
Cape Verde
Cape Verde is still one of those destinations that haven’t been invaded by the crowds. While its islands with beach resorts like Sal and Boa Vista are getting more and more popular, Santo Antao, the second largest island of the archipelago, seems to be the most remote of them all. It will definitely be one of the best places to visit in 2018 as it holds some areas that seem straight from a fairytale setting. One of them is the secluded village ofFontainhas, arguably one of the prettiest one the island. The natural setting is indeed breathtaking: steep valleys, a little beach at the foot of the mountain and its colorful houses built into the hillside. In fact, Fontainhas could be the perfect backdrop for a Lord of the Rings scene. The fairy tale aspect of Santo Antao is the most palpable during the rainy season (August-October) when cascades give the steep mountains and deep valleys an almost magical touch.
Paulina- Paulina on the Road
Bhutan
The Last Himalayan Kingdom. Land of the Thunder Dragon. The place of Gross National Happiness. These are the descriptors of Bhutan, the tiny landlocked country between China and India that’s one of the world’s most isolated places. It’s a country of immense beauty, with subtropical, temperate, and Himalayan climates, and forests covering 72% of the land. In this extremely Buddhist land, the culture shines through in its many dzongs (fortresses) and monasteries, and through its classic dishes such as chili cheese. One of the country’s slogans is “happiness is a place,” and you truly see a pure happiness in Bhutan that’s hard to find these days, be it at the many archery matches (it’s the country’s national sport), at festivals where the royal family openly meets and speaks with locals and tourists alike, or just at the neighborhood bar.
Bhutan isn’t a cheap destination, however. In an effort to conserve the nation’s culture and environment, the government has imposed a minimum daily tariff of $250 USD per day ($200 in low season). You do get a private guide and driver though, and basically everything besides alcohol, shopping, and tips is included. So it’s absolutely worth the money to see this truly unique place, especially if you can time your trip for one of Bhutan’s colorful festivals.
Rowena Li- A Nomad on the Loose
The Yukon, Canada
The Yukon is a great destination for both nature and history lovers alike. This northern territory of Canada offers up countless outdoor adventures, no matter the season, and is rich with stories of the Klondike Gold Rush, one of the most exciting events in Canada’s history. The thing I love most about the Yukon is the opportunity for immersive outdoor experiences. I enjoyed a peaceful horseback ride, canoed a portion of the Yukon River, embarked on some scenic hikes, and went on a couple of dramatic flightseeing excursions over mountains and icefields. I even witnessed the Northern Lights dancing across the sky! For a glimpse into the Yukon’s gold rush past, head to Dawson City. This small, quirky town still retains the look and feel of a once booming gold rush settlement. Here you can cruise the river on a paddlewheeler, pan for gold in Bonanza Creek, see vintage mining equipment, and even watch a can-can show at Canada’s oldest gambling hall.
For a fun outing that combines both the Yukon’s fascinating history and beautiful landscape, take a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route train. The railway closely follows the route prospectors took from Alaska to the Yukon and even includes a stop in historic Bennett, a former gold rush tent city at the end of the Chilkoot trail.
Rhonda Krause- Travel? Yes Please!
New Zealand
We have fallen in love with the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, especially after seeing the Lord of the Rings movies. Rent a campervan and plan at least two weeks to explore both the North and South islands. With volcanoes and geysers, hot springs and glow worm caves to visiting the Hobbiton (home of Lord of the Rings’ hobbits), and exploring the Maori culture there is an adventure for everyone in New Zealand’s North Island. If you are a mountain lover, the South Island will be your true love, with dozens of incredible treks, glaciers, lakes, but also with a lot of wildlife and the fairytale views of Milford Sound.
Andra Padureanu- Our World to Wander
Faroe Islands
For 2018, I think one of the best travel destination is the Faroe Islands. The Faroes consists of eighteen remote, dramatic, and rugged islands in the North Atlantic and this gorgeous destination surely won’t remain a secret much longer. From historic Torshavn to puffin paradise on Mykines, the islands are a photographer’s dream My suggestion is to rent a car and take a week or two to explore the islands one by one. Each island is so drastically different from the next that you will never find yourself bored or uninspired. My favorite place is the black sand beach in Tjørnuvik, but I also have a soft spot for Kalsoy, an island with famous lighthouse that is constantly seen in photographs.
Megan Starr- meganstarr.com
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Athens, the centre of Ancient Greek civilisation and birthplace of democracy, offers a great mix of history and urban adventure. A ten minute walk can take you from the shadow of the incredible Acropolis to hip neighbourhoods where laid-back coffee shops, 5 star hotels, and vibrant street art sit side by side. Tempting as it might be to go straight from Athens to one of the many fabulous Greek islands, it’s worthy of spending some time in. A couple of days can see you visit unparalleled archaeological wonders such as the Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and Temple of Zeus. There’s also over 80 museums to choose from, with the most notable being the National Archaeological Museum, Cycladic Art Museum, and Acropolis Museum. Stay four days, and you can take some great day trips from Athens to surrounding places of interest such as Delphi, Mycenae, Corinth and Nafplion. Whether visiting for a long weekend break, or as part of your Greek vacation, make sure you add Athens to your dream list of must-see destinations!
Dave Briggs-Dave’s Travel Pages
Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is one of the highlights of South Africa and one of the most spectacular places for a road trip in Africa. It stretches for 300km along the Pacific coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River. Many people travel the Garden Route for their honeymoon; beautiful nature, cozy guest houses and delicious food. The best way to explore the Route is by car there are many hidden gems and secret spots here. Best time for traveling the Garden Route is October – November and February – April; warm but not hot and less windy compare to December – January, good for adventure activities and hiking. The highlights of the Garden Route; Knysna – a beautiful town at the bay with many nice restaurants and guest houses. Garden Route National park – a huge protected area of indigenous forest with many long and short distance hikes including Outeniqua trail, an incredible 7-day hutted hike. Sedgefield – a small beach town with long white sand beaches, great for water adventure activities e.g. windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking etc. Mossel Bay – a holiday beach town with many activities to do among them shark cage diving, whale watching and hiking. The Bloukrans bridge – famous for the highest bridge bungee jump in the world, 216m above the Bloukrans River.
Garden Route, South Africa Hotels
Alya and Campbell- The Stingy Nomads
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Scotland is a beautiful country with a lot of amazing places to go. One of the most popular destinations in Scotland is Isle of Skye, situated off the West Coast of Scotland. If you’re a fan of a good road trip and exploring beautiful landscapes and scenery, Isle of Skye perfect for you. There are lots of fun outdoor activities such as hiking and camping (and there are even places to camp for free!). The Isle of Skye is also perfect for wildlife watching, as you can spot otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer. Some of the highlights of Isle of Skye are the Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Pools and of course the Old Man of Storr.
Lisanne van Beurden- Chapter Travel
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Dark and red rocks against a blue sky, volcanic peaks and lava fields,waves crashing against basalt columns; if you love scenery that looks out of this world, Lanzarote should be your destination for 2018! Located in the Canary Islands, off the Northwest coast of Africa, Lanzarote’s landscape has been shaped by volcanic activity, so much so it has been classified as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. In fact the volcanoes in an around the Timanfaya National Park are aptly named the Fire Mountains.
The only difficulty when traveling around is to not stop every 100 meters to admire the view.With great weather year-round, you can fit a one-week trip to this fascinating island any time in 2018. The main areas to stay are Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise. But if you want to connect with the power of the Earth you can also find charming little white guesthouses or rentals a bit more off of the beaten path.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands Hotels
Claire- ZigZag on Earth
Singapore
Do you love to eat? Do you enjoy cultural diversity? Does walking around a clean, friendly, beautiful city appeal to you? If the answer to any of these is yes, Singapore is the destination you’ve been looking for.
As a major international finance and trade hub for centuries, the cultural diversity in Singapore is immense. Walk through the silk markets of Arab Street, explore the Malay Cultural Center, have a Singapore Sling at the colonial Raffles Hotel, and visit beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples – all within a couple of miles of each other, and accessible by a world-class transportation system. Want more beauty in your life? The Gardens by the Bay are among the world’s finest. Don’t miss the Supertree Grove for its man-made vegetation and light show! You can also experience a night-time safari at the Singapore Zoo, with night-vision goggles to check out all of the nocturnal critters. Did I mention food? Singapore has the world’s least expensive Michelin-starred restaurant, a food stall that will run you less than $3. The street food scene is diverse and incredible. Make sure you try the national dish, chicken rice. It can be found everywhere, but for the best find the hawker stall with the longest line of locals.
Jonathan- The Royal Tour
More Singaopre Inspiration
The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary for Singapore
Byron Bay, Australia
Beautiful Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most loved travel destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The hippy town has a fantastic atmosphere, with talented musicians walking the street, amazing artwork being sold at the side of the road, and vibrant, colourful shops throughout town. Byron’s vibe is laid back and the area is best enjoyed barefoot, and its natural beauty is nothing short of breathtaking. The town is home to stunning beaches which can be best enjoyed in the famous lighthouse walk, lushly beautiful conserved rainforests, and a short drive inland takes you to some of Australia’s best waterfalls in the magical hinterland.
Be sure to attend one of the festive events while in Byron; there is a nightly drum circle, a weekly talent show at the Arts Factory (one of the best Byron Bay hostels), some of Australia’s best festivals and live music at almost every bar in town. Byron Bay is a fantastic place to visit in 2018 – be sure to add a trip to this town to your Australia itinerary.
Claire Martin- Claire’s Footsteps
St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
On an island known as the Rock, St. John’s, Newfoundland, is the perfect mix of small town and interesting culture. From hilly streets lined with brightly colored houses (aptly named Jellybean row) to mermaids cavorting around town, extraordinary public art to craft breweries, opportunities to see animals (whales! puffins!) in their natural environment to technological advances, and local coffeeshops to haunted hikes, this is a foodie town steeped in history, focused on the sea, and always forward looking.
Home to North America’s oldest sporting event (the Royal St. John’s Regatta, dating back to 1816), there is culture galore in town. Find your art zen with day classes at the Anna Templeton Centre For Craft Art & Design, or meander through the city’s plethora of art galleries. Interested in music? The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival is an enormous draw, as is the downtown Busker Festival. There is plenty of theatre in a variety of locales, as well as the Women’s International Film Festival. Prefer partying? There are interesting bars, pubs, and ceilidhs, and the George Street Festival, an annual outdoor party on the smallest street in North America. On that same street near Halloween, you’ll find a Mardi Gras celebration.
Natural history lovers will delight in the Rooms, a natural history museum (with preserved giant squid) perched on one of the many hills in town. Geology fiends will travel through time at the Johnson GeoCenter, located underground IN the rock.
Whatever your bliss, you’ll find it in St. John’s.
St. John’s Newfoundland Hotels
Jessie Voigts- Wandering Educators
Nusa Penida, Indonesia
While Bali is a great destination I’ve recently found a little island southwest of Bali that I fell in love with. The beautiful island of Nusa Penida is a bit off the beaten path and best enjoyed over 2-3 days exploring its quiet beaches and peaceful villages. The tourism industry is not yet thriving here and accommodation options are a pretty limited but that will change soon. Nusa Penida has so many amazing natural highlights including the famous dinosaur shaped beach that lures people over from Bali on day trips. To explore Nusa Penida by yourself. Just rent a motorbike and discover the magical coastline, amazing viewpoints and idyllic bays. Transportation on the island is not developed at all so you can either choose to hop on a scooter or join a Nusa Penida day trip .Nusa Penida has fantastic scuba diving, you may spot the rare mola mola or swim with manta mays. Nusa Penida should definitely top your bucketlist for traveling in 2018!
Tom Grond- Travel Tom Tom
Switzerland
Switzerland has so much to offer any traveler. With its unbeatable views, stunningly gorgeous landscapes, and incredible cities, Switzerland sets itself apart from the rest of Europe not only in size, but also with the amount of reasons to visit this year. Switzerland is not only drop-dead gorgeous, but it is also very safe, clean, and easy to get around with it’s excellent transportation system. Not only home to the Matterhorn, the most picturesque mountain in the world (literally the world’s most photographed mountain), Switzerland also has the greatest number of peaks stretching over 4000m high. This means that anywhere you venture to in the country, you’re almost guaranteed to have a view with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Whether you visiting in the winter, the summer, or somewhere in between there are endless activities to choose from; in the cooler months, there is unparalleled skiing and snowboarding and when the snow is gone there are countless hiking trails to explore.
Ryan Ri- The Opposite Travellers
Yosemite National Park, USA
This iconic national park is located in California and boasts some of the best views, hiking trails and opportunities for adventure. Famous for its giant sequoia trees, waterfalls and incredible granite cliffs at El Capitan and Half Dome, there is no shortage of activities for the nature lover in you! I’ve visited Yosemite at least once a year since moving to the state of California and with each changing season, there is more beauty to be found. There really is no bad time to visit Yosemite. Winter brings some closures, but the beautiful blanket of snow more than makes up for it. Spring promises blooming wildflowers and waterfalls are at their peak. Summertime is the most popular season. And if you’re looking to find fewer crowds, better deals and ideal temperatures, autumn is your best bet! If you are looking to explore more national parks in 2018, you simply cannot leave Yosemite off your list!
Shem Hooda-Sugar &Stamps
Novi Sad, Serbia
There are certainly a lot of European destinations worth visiting however, our top recommendation would be the little town of Novi Sad in Serbia (Eastern Europe has some little-known jewels). You may have never even heard of this place and may be unsure of what Serbia would be like, but strolling through Danube Park and exploring Petrovaradin Fortress provided European charm without the crowds of more famous European cities. One of the best reasons to visit Novi Sad would be how affordable it is while providing great value (you gotta go while it’s still “underrated”). Novi Sad offers up a great vacation (or even temporary living, if you’re the nomad type like us) on pretty much any budget. We didn’t feel like we had to really “watch” our spending there, though we ate at some quality establishments and felt like we were treating ourselves. You can really get the value of any popular Western destination at about half the price here! Novi Sad can cater to the adventure lover, luxury seeker, history buff, and the relaxed vibe will surely add to a spectacular visit.
Taiss Nowrouzi- Together to Wherever
Berlin, Germany
Punta del Diablo, Uruguay
Nashville, Tennessee USA
I am obviously quite biased but Nashville is one of the best cities in the United States. There is so much to see, do and eat here that you can easily fill up any size itinerary. I’ve lived here my whole life and I still haven’t done everything! Maybe you want to hit all the touristy spots, maybe you want to have a more chill weekend and only hit up a few places while getting in some relaxation – whatever your motives, Nashville will leave you wanting more and more.
In Nashville, you can take in a music show at an iconic location like the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman or Bluebird Cafe. You can go street art searching as we have over 100 murals in Music City. You can connect to nature at Bicentennial State Park, Radnor Lake or the Warner Parks. We have countless museums, local restaurants, boutique shops and artists too! We even have a plenty for the sports fans – a major league hockey team, minor league baseball team, a NFL team and coming soon, a major league soccer team.
Ashley Hubbard- A Southern Gypsy
Rovaniemi, Finland
There are a lot of fun things to do in Finland during the winter, and one “cool” thing is to spend the night in an ice hotel or glass igloo. One such ice hotel is the Snowman World Igloo Hotel which is located within the Santa Claus Village in the town of Rovaniemi, Finland. This town is considered the official home of Santa Claus and you can visit him there year round! The hotel offers 15 sculpted ice igloos and each has its own specific theme. Each room contains warm bedding and a thermal sleeping bag to keep you warm in the igloos which maintain a temperature just below 0 degrees Celcius. If you survive the night, you receive a Arctic Night Survival certificate after breakfast! This hotel also features a ice-sculpted bar, restaurant, and a number of ice sculptures within the property. Room rates include breakfast and a pass to visit the attractions within the Snowman World park. This hotel is well-suited for couples or families (book a family igloo), but note that the bathroom facilities and toilets are shared among guests.
Jessica Norah-Independent Travel Cats
The Phillipines
They say it’s more fun in The Philippines… and they’re not wrong! This beautiful cluster of islands is a beach-lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking to put your feet up and relax, indulge in some delicious eats or even dance the night away – there’s a spot for you. Take some time to feel the sand between your toes along the beautiful beaches of Boracay. Then take on a volcano by conquering the gruelling hike of Mt Pinatubo. Why not get the adrenaline pumping by canyoneering at Kawasan Falls or with some cliff diving at Ariel’s Point? Wrap up your adventure by enjoying some amazing meals and nightlife in Manila. That’s honestly just scratching the surface of what this gorgeous country has to offer. So what are you waiting for?! Jump in with both feet and see just how much fun there is to be had in The Philippines!
Family Travel Tips for the Philippines
Lindsay Davies- I’ve Been Bit
Western Ireland
If you’re looking for a place to visit and you love a good combination of green scenery, old castles, beer and traditional music, Ireland’s West Coast may be the place for you! Just land in Shannon, get a car and whichever direction you pick is a win. Ireland’s Atlantic coast is famous for charming towns like Galway and Limerick as well the stunning landscapes provided by Ring of Kerry and the Dingle peninsula with the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher. A good day in Ireland includes driving along scenic roads with a few stops for hiking, and no day is complete without a pint in the local pub, listening to a local Irish band. At least a week is needed to explore this gorgeous area of Ireland.
Eran- The Laughing Traveller
Nepal
Nepal has been called the best value destination by Lonely Planet and there are many reasons for this. Imagine a fusion of scenic nature, hospitality and nice food – it’s all about Nepal. Despite being a small country, Nepal has numerous experiences to offer. Explore its pristine nature – from mountains to lakes, dive into the local culture in the villages, visit the heritage towns and learn about their history. If you like adventures, go trekking, kayaking, paragliding in picturesque landscapes!
Nepal makes it easy for visitors – you can get visa on arrival (except 12 countries), find accommodation for any budget and everything you might need for traveling within the country is available in big city markets for reasonable prices. It’s quite easy to get a SIM card and get around. “Once is not enough” is the tourism slogan of the country and I couldn’t agree more!
Natalia- My Trip Hack
Banff, Canada
If you love the outdoors, glaciers,lakes, mountains, fir trees that change color with the seasons, amazing hikes, charming ski towns, or abundant scenery, Banff is the place for you. Only about a 45 minute drive from Calgary, AB, the town of Banff was literally built to be picturesque (spoiler: it worked). All around this adorable ski town, you have the Canadian Rockies, tons of wildlife, and glacial lakes with some of the most vibrantly turquoise water you’ve ever seen. Lake Louise, Lake Agnes and its tea house, Johnston Canyon, and Moraine Lake are all must-sees, and surrounded by hikes of all difficulties (and plenty of photo ops). Pro tip: if Banff is booked up, stay about 20 minutes away in Canmore, another precious ski town that makes a great home base.
If you get your fill of Banff, drive the Icefields Parkway up into Jasper National Park. There are countless scenic overlooks along the way up to the town of Jasper, and animals frequent the roadsides, waiting for their close-ups. Once in Jasper, hike around Maligne Lake, or take a lake cruise and be surrounded by the majesty of one of the local First Nations tribe’s most sacred places. So when should you visit? For skiing, arrive November-March. For mild weather and hiking, early summer. But early October is our recommendation if you want to catch stretches of brilliant golden larches cascading down the mountains. We hope you enjoy as much as we did!
Luke and Meagan- Two Restless Homebodies
Merida, Mexico
Merida, Mexico is the perfect place to visit in 2018- it has it all! Merida has some of the best food in the entire country, friendly people and interesting history. Merida is also situated for day trips to explore the region. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula the town has recently been named Mexico’s safest city.
Some of the day trips you can take include exploring yellow cities, pink lakes, biosphere reserves, incredible beaches, and my favorite- cenotes. Cenotes are natural, freshwater swimming holes thought to have been formed from the same meteorite event that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. The Yucatan region has more than 6,000 cenotes and Merida is the perfect base for exploring them. Some of them are very simple and others have been developed into high end spots with attached restaurants and even swimming pools! These reasons, and so many more, make Merida worth exploring in 2018!
Nathan Aguilera- Foodie Flashpacker
Hannah Lukaszewicz says
So many amazing places to visit, many of these are on our bucket list!
Jill says
So many places, so little time! What a comprehensive list – and so many to add to my travel wish list. Honestly, they all look great!
Eran says
What a great list! I especially loved the picture used for the Isle of Skye (where I’ve been a few years ago) and Cape Verde which is an interesting idea
Jessie Voigts says
What a fantastic list – such inspiration! Thank you!
Harmony, Momma To Go says
wow what a list!I think barbados is on my realistic list and antarctica my unrealistic! I guess the theme is try to visit place that are not overcrowded, before they become so!
Ruth says
This list is fantastic! There are so many places I want to visit in here. I have plans to visit Zagreb, Lake Bled and other places in the Balkans. I am looking forward to that trip. #WeekednWanderlust
Taiss says
What a fantastic list for travel inspiration! I love the landscapes these destinations offer! So much beauty still left to see for us! Hopefully, we’ll get to some of these in 2018.
Cathy says
I hope to visit some of these in 2018! Thanks for including our suggestion:)
Natalia says
So many great destinations to explore!! Chile and Myanmar have been long on my list))
Robert says
What a comprehensive list of travel destinations and inspiration! Will definitely share this post with others. I’ve got a lot of traveling to do yet! 🙂
Lauren says
Holy moly. Now I want to go…everywhere already…but this gave me so many more suggestions! My 2018 is pretty wide open, too! How dangerous 🙂 I want to go to all of them!
Melanie Winters says
Oooh Croatia has been on my travel bucket list for quite some time now! Looks like I have quite a few more places to add to the list though…. so much beauty, not enough time!!
James says
Awesome list! Would love to do some scuba diving in Nusa Penida – Indonesia that you listed. It looks amazing! Thanks for sharing!
alwayne arlando gray says
I will be visiting some of these places for 2018, i really enjoy travelling with my wife. Thank you for the solid information.
Katrin says
Now how is one supposed to be able to choose where to go? So many amazing destinations… I have a soft spot for the outdoors and adventures (not too adventurous though!), so places like that inspisre me the most. Cities, nah, not that much. I would like to go to the Faroe Island. My dad sailed there in the eighties, with a large sailing ship, and was quite in awe with landscape and scenery.
And I’d love to go to northern Canada! I want to experience the vast wilderness and the magnificent landscape.
Nepal has been on my wish list for years, but the political development in the area has somewhat put me off. Stupid perhaps, and they do need the tourism for a living.
Anyway, thanks for a thorough list!