The dead of winter is when your mind starts to conjure up images of sandy beaches and buzzing cities. But as relaxing as daydreaming about sun-soaked islands and cosmopolitan capitals may be, it won’t get you to any of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world anytime soon. Wised-up travellers know to plan ahead for their dream holiday and this, of course, starts with deciding where to go.
From time-honoured ‘classics’ to hotspots that are on the brink of discovery, here’s our list of this year’s top 10 tourist destinations in the world.
1) Turkey’s Aegean Coast makes our travel bucket list for 2019 for its white sands, turquoise waters and warm hospitality at CLC World Aegean Coast. glowing CLC World reviews. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting a bazaar, hit Kusadasi, a buzzy beach town or marvel at the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Ephesus. The Aegean Coast’s many return visitors and their glowing CLC World reviews are a true testament to the region’s marvellous variety of things to do and see.
2) A hiker’s delight in summer and the perfect skiing destination in winter, Austria is arguably one of the globe’s most versatile holiday destinations. Its lyrical landscapes of sparkling lakes and rugged alpine terrain beckon walkers and rafters alike. Of course, visits to Vienna and Salzburg are not to be missed. Here you can soak up imperial history and a thriving art scene.
3) Another of Europe’s hottest travel spots is Scotland. The scattered islands off Scotland’s coast are an adventurer’s dream, with archipelagos like the Inner and Outer Hebrides boasting compelling seascapes, extraordinary wildlife and endless beaches, not to mention cosy pubs where you can make new friends and enjoy a dram or two.
4) One of the destinations to make our list of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world is Kyrgyzstan. An improved highway system and simplified visa procedure make it an ideal option for those in search of an offbeat holiday. Travellers can revel in Kyrgyzstan’s stunning mountain vistas, dramatic craggy ridges and rolling summer pastures. However, it’s whispered that Kyrgyzstan won’t be flying under the tourists’ radar for very long, so don’t wait.
5) Sri Lanka offers more than a palm-fringed idyll and soft golden sand. It has a growing surf scene, is a popular sailing destination and with its rafting and fly-boarding possibilities, a must-visit for adrenaline-addicts. What’s more, improved train services mean it’s now easier than ever to explore areas that were previously tricky to reach.
6) Belize is an underwater enthusiast’s dream as it’s home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Other highlights include wildlife sanctuaries, natural caves and archaeological sites. An added attraction is how quiet Belize is when compared to its neighbours, Mexico and Guatemala. Hit those empty beaches soon though as Belize is on the brink of world-wide discovery.
7) A strong entry for our travel bucket list for 2019 is Zimbabwe, which borders Victoria Falls, a Natural World Wonder no less. Other reasons why Zimbabwe is an in-the-know favourite are its welcoming locals, great game parks, World Heritage-listed archaeological sites and striking landscapes. The country’s fresh beginnings and newly erected international airport clinch 2019 as the perfect time to visit.
8) Apart from its famous canal, Panama boasts white sand beaches, tropical rainforest and amazing wildlife. The country’s capital, Panama City, prides itself on a restored Casco Antiguo (‘Ancient district’ in Spanish), bringing the colonial district back to its former glory. And if this isn’t enough, Panama City is throwing a huge birthday party in August to celebrate its 500-year anniversary.
9) Also vying for attention amongst our top 10 tourist destinations in the world, is Indonesia. This tropical archipelago provides endless options for the adventurous minded, as well as those keen to chill on poolside loungers in a luxury resort. New travel connections and relaxed visa requirements mean that getting to Indonesia has never been easier.
10) Belarus, on the edge of Europe, boasts four World Heritage sites, remarkable history and intriguing architecture. Its capital, Minsk, shines through its restored old town and Soviet-style murals. It’s also becoming a hub for international events, such as the European Games, which will take place in June this year. What’s more, eased visa restrictions ensure that booking a flight to Belarus is a breeze.