As 2018 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect wistfully upon another year gone by…Actually, scrap that – it’s time to get excited about all the travel opportunities that 2019 will hold.
That’s right, it’s time to get planning and feel the bubble of exhilaration that only travel can bring. With this in mind, we’re on hand to reveal our hottest travel destinations for 2019. Expect the unexpected as we take you through the hidden diamonds that are having their moment in the sun…
1. Jordan
Heaving with historical significance, spirituality and soul, Jordan is a serene sanctuary in a region of conflict. Ever since Jean Louis Burckhardt stumbled upon the ‘lost’ city of Petra in the 19th century – the jaw-dropping ancient metropolis that’s carved into towering red cliffs – this land has ignited the imaginations of intrepid adventurers across the globe. John William Burgon’s famous sonnet summarised the feelings of awe this enchanting place evoked:
It seems no work of Man’s creative hand,
by labour wrought as wavering fancy planned;
But from the rock as if by magic grown,
eternal, silent, beautiful, alone!
But Jordan isn’t just about the ‘rose-red city half old as time.’ Boasting sweeping desert panoramas, fascinating ancient monuments, fantastic food and warm hospitality, it’s comfortably one of the hottest travel destinations for 2019.
Mexico
In every aspect, Mexico brings the heat. From buzzing city to idyllic bay, Mexico has boundless biodiversity, kaleidoscopes of colour, overflowing natural beauty, ancient archaeological sites and one of the world’s most vibrant cuisines, so it’s no wonder that it’s a top trending destination for 2019. Wander through the spellbinding jungle ruins of Palenque; snorkel with turtles in Cabo Pulmo, or get the party started in Mexico City. No matter what type of traveller you are, Mexico will have something to make you fall head over heels.
Albania
Albania is finally being noticed as a beautifully unique travel destination, and we reckon it’s about time. With world-class beaches, epic mountains, crumbling ruins, and a bright and colourful capital city, this Mediterranean jewel truly has something for all travellers. Make sure to visit before absolutely everyone catches on (it’s only a matter of time).
Slovenia
Looking at images of Slovenia is a bit like looking at teasers for a new Disney movie. But this is no fairytale – it really does look like that in the flesh. Emerald lakes, enchanting forests, hillside castles, alpine panoramas… and the food’s pretty good, too.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is changing. Since the departure of Mugabe, it’s never been easier to visit, and travellers are starting to wake up to its singular delights. One of the best places to spot the big five (lions, rhinos, buffalos, leopards, and elephants) this sprawling, diverse landscape is also home to one of the most impressive spectacles in the world: the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls.
Scotland
Come to Scotland for the spectacular scenery, charming cities and fascinating history, but stay for the unbeatable hospitality (and the whiskey). Whether you’re walking through the gothic, cobbled streets of Edinburgh, gawping at the incomparable vistas of the Isle of Skye or trekking through the vibrant landscapes of the Highlands, this wild and beautiful land will steal your heart over and over again.
Belarus
Packed with natural beauty, Belarus, with its lively capital Minsk and sprawling national parks, is one of the hottest destinations to visit this year. Rich in history, overflowing with unique culture and filled with warm and hospitable locals, Belarus is a survivor, emerging from a murky past to become a top travel destination.
Belize
Boasting the best bits of both Central America and the Caribbean, this underrated palm-fringed paradise is packed with treasures. Fancy a hike through the northern foothills of the Maya Mountains, where you’ll find faded relics of ancient civilisations? Or how about a cold cocktail on some of the most idyllic beaches in the world? If you fancy dipping your toes in those crystal clear waters, you’ll find one of the longest barrier reefs on the planet, teeming with colourful marine wildlife.
Sri Lanka
This wild and wonderful land has scenery in spades. Taking an impossibly beautiful train through the old pine forests and verdant tea plantations, you’ll snap more photos than your phone can store. With some serious wildlife, from elephants to tigers, Sri Lanka’s national parks are home to some world class safari tours, while there’s plenty of opportunity on the shimmering North East coast to relax on a secluded beach with a cocktail.
Turkey
A land of remarkable diversity, Turkey is a melting pot of seething cities, colour, music and some of the best beaches in Europe. Whether you want to soak up centuries of civilisation in Istanbul or island hop from pure white beach to pure white beach, this is a seriously underrated travel hotspot, and a no brainer for our 2019 list.
Iceland
Last but by no means least, Iceland is a bona fide bucket list haven. Its supercharged volcanic landscapes, geothermal volatility, glistening glaciers and, of course, the ethereal Northern Lights make this unique country a canvas of pure gob-smacking beauty. Kick back in the blue lagoons, immerse yourself in Reykjavik’s rich arts and culture or pull up a pew for the otherworldly aurora borealis—this place will stick with you forever.