Did you manage to visit some of the top rated destinations in 2015? No? Fret not! Here are five trending travel destinations to make up for what you’ve missed out last year. From tan-tastic beaches to beautiful country sides and more, these amazing destinations are sure to ignite the wanderlust flame in you and get you packing for an exciting vacation.
Destinations for 2017
Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Get ready to explore this north-eastern state of Rio Grande do Norte and find out first-hand why it is more than a sun-and-surf getaway. Nicknamed as the Bride of the Sun, this destination is famed for its large cashew trees, sea salt products and glittery sands. This destination welcomes both tourists and locals all year round and the high season is from Christmas through mid-March.
If your vacation period falls on the first weekend in December, you will be able to attend Brazil’s largest off-season carnival, Carnatal. Be sure to head down to the Public Market in Redinha Beach to try the ever-popular Brazilian delicacy called Ginga Com Tapioca. This delicious dish consists of coconut-crusted and deep-fried Manjuba Kabobs and Tapioca.
Mie Prefecture, Japan
The Mie Prefecture is just a 4-hour bullet train ride away from Japan’s bustling capital, Tokyo. The fast-developing prefecture had mostly attracted domestic travellers in the past but is now becoming popular with tourists as well. Blessed with fertile mountains and expansive seafronts, the destination offers modern entertainment facilities and a chance to experience historic culture unlike another.
From sacred Shinto pilgrimage sites to pearl-producing oysters to the richly-marbled Matsusaka beef, you will be able to enjoy all kinds of travel features here. Amanemu, an upcoming hot spring resort, will open its doors in March 2016 so you will be able to experience the ancient Japanese bathing tradition of onsen by indulging in its nutrient-rich thermal springs while taking in the sights of its serene natural surroundings.
Blue Lagoon Thermal Area, Iceland
Did you know that Iceland’s tradition of bathing outdoors date back to the Viking times? Just like how it was done in the past, you will now get the chance to energize in volcanically heated pools! Set in the heart of the Icelandic landscape, Blue Lagoon is one of the country’s top hot pools to take a dip. What’s more, it has been blinking on the radar of trending travel destinations for some time. If you are travelling with your significant other, you can heat up the romance with the destination’s relaxing massages and signature treatments.
Kalamata, Greece
Travel to the far south of mainland Greece and discover the laid-back Kalamata. Known in ancient times as Fares, the destination has a lot in its arsenal which has not yet been used to promote the city. However, Kalamata’s popularity is rising in recent years as it promises clear, warm water along its long beaches to many swimmers and sunbathers. In addition, it has become a great place for water sports as well. Kalamata has a rich cultural and historic heritage to offer and this has been resonating well with culture vultures.
Shwedagon Paya, Myanmar
Due to the popular Aung San Suu Kyi being elected as leader and the lifting of Western sanctions, Myanmar is rapidly becoming a tourist destination that many want to visit. If you ever wanted to see a country that has remained untouched by the by-products of the 21st century, travel to Myanmar now for an unforgettable experience before it all changes! When you visit Myanmar, be sure to head down to Yangon to check out the magnificence of the Shwedagon Paya. This is one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites and the adornment of gold leaves, diamonds and gems are truly eye-catching. If you prefer tranquillity, do visit in the cool of dawn!
Are you ready to trek the globe in 2017? Do consider any of the destinations above while you plan for your next adventure, and let us know about your quirky travel tales there!
Author’s Bio
Gemma is a well-seasoned traveller who works in the Perth bus hire industry. Besides travelling, she also has a penchant for collecting handicrafts from Asia.