A new year brings customary yearning for a fresh start and new reasons to explore the world. And while travelers are increasingly looking for out-of-the-ordinary destinations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences for their next vacation, Travel Vivi has picked up top 10 destinations that should be on everyone’s travel radar in 2012. So if the world is your oyster, why not seek out the pearls???
1. Uganda
Africa is endowed with an incredibly beautiful landscape, amazing wildlife, friendly people and lots of secrets for the world to discover; from chimpanzee trekking tours to gorillas tracking safaris to forest walks to bungee jumping. Uganda is blessed with all this and even more.
Stability is returning here so it won’t be long before visitors come pouring back. Uganda is not only the source of the river Nile; it’s also where the mountains stand behind thriving jungles and where savannah meets the lakes of East Africa. The wildlife is returning and this year Uganda celebrates the 50th anniversary of its independence. This is a ‘must see’ part of our beautiful world.
2. Myanmar (Burma)
Surrounded by mountains and white sandy beaches, the country’s most accessible area is in the middle, where it is filled with timeless towns and countless pagodas. There’s so much to see and experience, especially when it comes to the Buddhist locals, who are lovely people.
3. Ukraine
Much of Ukraine has been left unexplored by tourists, so it’s time to see something different. Most of Ukraine is a level, treeless plain, but the Crimean and Carpathian Mountains are attractive to adventurous hikers with their undisturbed forests of pine, beech and oaks – home of deer and elk. Alcohol and food is cheap and with all of the country’s history, this is an inexpensive and exciting holiday destination!
4. Jordan
The ancient ‘Red Rose city’ is still the star attraction for many, but sights such as Wadi Rum, Jerash and Madaba are increasing the tourism boom. Jordan is one of the most open, friendly and welcoming nations in the Middle East and is therefore a fine example to other states in the region of how to move forward while keeping the ancient traditions. The history and tourist infrastructure make it one of the most accessible Arab states for English-speaking travelers.
5. Denmark
Year by year, Denmark tops a ‘quality of life’ list and is revealed as the coolest/happiest/best-looking place on earth — sounds good! Living is easy in this small, yet perfectly formed country, plus it’s stunning to look at. On the whole, this country lives a very green lifestyle, and public spaces are enjoyed by all. Exploring is easy and safe, as countrywide you’ll find around 10,000 km of bicycle routes, where you can take in the picturesque countryside or the architectural buildings.
6. Bhutan
Beautiful Buddhist Bhutan is full of charms waiting to be viewed and now new areas of this mountainous land are finally opening for business. It’s time to see places that aren’t conventional tourist hot spots like a flight into peak-protected Paro, a visit to western Bhutan’s cultural sights and treks through mountains (although the usual tourist stuff is still amazing). However, guides are compulsory, but at least you won’t get lost! The Royal Manas National Park, home to some of the planet’s last remaining tigers, has reopened.
7. Cuba
The Caribbean’s biggest island offers all the pleasures we associate with Europe: sun, sea, sand and a laid-back vibe — but with a difference. Cuba’s extraordinary history, years of self-sufficiency and its unique Afro-Latin culture make it a holiday destination which is like nowhere else in the world.
8. New Caledonia
Cute pavement dining in the streets of Nouméa – yet you’re in the heart of the South Pacific! Head to the Loyalty Islands or Ile des Pins and you’ll enter another world all together. This is a fascinating opportunity to experience New Caledonia from a different perspective with its fabulous island views and unique mélange of Gallic and Melanesian cultures – this truly is somewhere unique to visit.
9. Taiwan
Taiwan is known for its amazing landscape – huge sea cliffs and dense forest mountains. The museums are filled with treasures and there’s a thriving folk culture that includes some wild displays of Taoist and Buddhist worship. This year also sees the linking of thousands of kilometers of paths, including two round-the-island routes, and a host of other cycling friendly infrastructure projects.
10. Switzerland
Simply one of the most scenic and stunning places in the world! With its crisp, fresh and clean air, it does wonders for the body and the mind! Both the summer and the winter seasons offer beauty and a wealth of activity. Plus, the food is absolutely delicious!
Do you fancy any of the above top 10 places to visit this year? Make sure you take a look at the hotels.com voucher codes offering to make your trip even more affordable.
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