As we break into the new year, the world is looking bright, and we can soon feed the wanderlust that’s been building up. It’ll soon be time to take a trip that makes 2020 nothing more than a distant memory, but how do you choose? Some destinations are old classics that spent the year rejuvenating and improving, while others are newly-discovered treasures just waiting for their first travelers. Regardless of where you visit, this is the year of adventure.
01 Celebrate a legend in Dollywood
Dolly Parton is a country music legend, a good-hearted philanthropist, and one of the reasons we all get to travel again. Dolly’s donation to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center's research efforts helped make a vaccine possible. Why not honor her efforts and have a ton of fun by heading to the world-famous amusement park to celebrate her legacy? Dollywood is an eclectic mix of classic rides, music festivals, and foodie hangouts.
02 Conquer the year in Cancun
When planning a trip in, it’s important to think about what you missed most while stuck at home. For many people, a thriving club scene and nights out with friends were a way to unwind and enjoy life. Cancun is one of the most famous destinations in the world for people who love a good party, and the city wants travelers to return. In Cancun, many businesses are offering hotel vouchers, discounts, and gifts for people who visit. What’s better than a night out on the town? A night out on the town and an inexpensive spa trip on the following day.
03 Ride into the sunset in Loire Valley
Shake off the claustrophobic grasp of 2020 by exploring the peaceful beauty of France’s Loire valley. Rent a bike and leave your worries behind as the wheels carry you off through storybook villages and over lush valleys. Make time for the Jules Verne museum or marvel at the gorgeous Gothic cathedral in Nantes. Of course, Loire Valley has plenty of dining options, ranging from classic French dishes to heavenly gelato.
04 Explore the desert in Scottsdale
You probably won’t see Scottsdale on many recommended destination lists, but they're making a mistake. Scottsdale has always been a city of rugged beauty and excitement. Recently, the city has built on its natural charm and become a must-see destination. Zoom across the desert on an electric bike or take in the scenery while dining on a high-class meal on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Scottsdale is the home of Frank Lloyd Wright’s studio, has an incredible contemporary art museum, and a free ArtWalk for anyone to enjoy.
05 Take a hike in the Kii Peninsula
After spending a year cooped up in our homes, many people are craving a breath of fresh air. Most travelers visit Japan for its bustling cities and legendary cuisine. However, take a train outside of the cities, and you’ll find some of the most beautiful and spacious landscapes in the world. The Kii Peninsula has risen in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its gorgeous temples and long, relaxing hiking locations. Locals are often extremely friendly, and many travelers find themselves making friends thousands of miles from home. Try visiting in the spring to watch the mountains erupt in vibrant, pink cherry blossoms.
06 Bask in the sun in Bermuda
With a deep history, phenomenal beaches, and some of the best food you can eat, Bermuda is a destination that everyone should experience at least once. The island’s crystal blue waters and shockingly pink beaches are beautiful enough, but then there are the rustic forts, historical sites, and elegant sea glass beach. Don’t forget to check out the island’s incredible crystal caves. Plus, the climate is milder than neighboring islands.
07 Expand your horizons in Hokianga Harbour
Though many travelers tend to overlook it, Hokianga Harbour is one of the best destinations in New Zealand. Take a journey on horseback, enjoy some dune boarding, or watch as dolphins leap from the perfect blue waters. Pick one of the nearby villages and take in the local Maori culture. If you have time, make sure to head south for a one of a kind sight. The Waipoua Forest is home to the two largest living kauri trees, which are sure to leave you awestruck.
08 Try out a Sicilian adventure
Sicily tops many people’s lists of dream vacations. It has something for everyone, whether you want to see incredible museums, try out life-changing cuisine, or just bask in the golden Italian sun. As an additional bonus, Sicily is missing its visitors as much as travelers are missing the beautiful city. Throughout 2020, businesses are offering discounts on flights, museum tickets, and hotel rooms. If cost was ever an issue in deciding to visit Sicily, this might be your year.
09 Take to the waters in Hạ Long Bay
In 2012, the New 7 Wonders Foundation named Vietnam’s Hạ Long Bay one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the world, and it’s easy to see why. Enjoy the serene waters in whatever manner suits you, whether that’s kayaking, swimming, or relaxing on a small ship. After a long day in the water, seek out a hidden bar, or indulge in Vietnamese dishes in one of the charming shoreside restaurants. However, if you want to make the most of your visit, don’t miss the night cruises. As the sun sets, the already beautiful bay becomes something magical.
10 Live your dream in Orlando
Travelers sometimes have to make a few concessions when deciding on a destination, but Orlando really does have everything you could ask for. A booming nightlife, massive amusement parks, scientific complexes, gentle lakes, fields of flowers, and so much more. Many of us spent 2020 escaping into worlds beyond our own thanks to cinema, literature, and television. Finish off the experience by fully immersing yourself in the wizarding world, a city of stackable, colorful bricks, or a galaxy far, far away.
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