Where to go in 2018? What’s the hot destination? What’s off the beaten path? Where does your dollar go the farthest? Is this the year for a bucket list trip?
I gave you a list in 2017: Paris, Montréal, the Northern Lights, Martin Luther’s Germany, Nashville, and Cuba. Sadly, Cuba is off any list for 2018, due to hurricane damage and the reversal of policy that encouraged visits to the island. The Northern Lights are predicted to dim this year, but can still be seen. The other places? Always good!
Where to go in 2018
Caribbean: The 2017 hurricanes devastated the Caribbean. Beautiful islands with beautiful beaches and resorts were ravaged. But many were not severely damaged or are already welcoming guests. Tourism is the main industry in this tropical region and your dollars are sorely needed. Please don’t assume that the Caribbean should be avoided–if we stay away, the economic impact will be even greater. To learn more about responsible tourism, read my post.
San Antonio, Texas OR New Orleans, Louisiana: WOW! Both of these fabulous cities are celebrating their 300th Anniversary. Rich history, amazing local cuisine, and plenty of events planned for the year. They’re different but delightful. Whether you stroll the River Walk or the French Quarter, you win!
Nicaragua: If you think Costa Rica is the only place to find the beauty of Central America, think again. Think Nicaragua. The years of war and turmoil are over, and it is one of the new “hotspots” for 2018. Frommer’s Travel reports a 28% increase in international visitors last year. Plus, flights take less than three hours from Miami.
Malta: Valletta, the tiny nation’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, 2018 European Capital of Culture, has a year of festivities planned. Travel + Leisure says, “Malta has all the charm of nearby Sicily with far fewer tourists.” Malta is the ideal Mediterranean spot–ask the many cultures and countries that have inhabited it over the centuries.
Faroe Islands: Shhh, don’t tell…these islands situated 450 miles southeast of Iceland have many of the same sights as the now-overrun Iceland. Owned by Denmark, and easy to navigate, savvy travelers can avoid the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the North Atlantic. You’ve gotta love a place with the slogan “Unspoiled. Unexplored. Unbelievable.”
Mekong River: It’s the 50th year since the Tet Offensive and the strife of the Vietnam War. For those of us of ” certain age,” 2018 will be a year to look back on the painful era. Today, Americans are welcomed in Vietnam and the beautiful Mekong River is a popular way to see the country. Choose a river tour that starts in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and float past temples, villages, and floating markets.
Where to go in 2018? There are a zillion places waiting for you this year. Wherever you go, I wish you safe travels and happy memories!
More posts to help you plan:
8 Easy Tips for Budget Travel Planning
Solo Travel Safety: Plan Your Trip
Immunizations for Travelers: Stay Healthy Out There!
Note: Photos without credits are from Pixabay.
