As we come to the end of 2016, many of us have already started to look forward to the New Year. If you’re a traveler, then you’ve likely already started to plan out what places you’re hoping to visit in 2016. However, before you pull the trigger on your current plans, we’d encourage you to check out the list we’ve thrown together, because on it we’ve identified the 25 places around the world that are primed for travel in 2016.
Of course, you may have already ventured to some of these places! That makes sense, because these are some of the finest travel destinations that the world has to offer. But, there are sure to be some that you haven’t even set eyes on yet. We think that 2016 should be the year that you finally take the plunge. Say, for example, that you’ve never ventured into the den of excess that is Las Vegas. Why wouldn’t you make 2016 the year you change that forever?
Whatever the case, these are 25 places that we absolutely recommend to any traveler who’ll be setting out away from home in the New Year. And, if you’re new to hopping around the globe, then take this list as your handy companion. You could do a lot worse than by checking off each of these 25 places over the years to come!
1. Puerto Rico
If you live in the United States, then you don’t even need a passport to visit this beautiful, tropical location, which is home to the U.S.’s only national park with tropical forestation.
2. Budapest
So you’ve wanted to get a glimpse of what life is like in Eastern Europe? Then Budapest should be #1 on your list of places to go in 2016!
3. Prague
Already been to Budapest? Well then, how about Prague? This vibrant arts center is also another place where you can experience the finest of Eastern European culture.
4. San Francisco
This absolutely gorgeous city with a vibrant arts and restaurant scene is getting more expensive by the day. Better get there in 2016, before all but millionaires are priced out.
5. Crete, Greece
This land with mythical history is home to all the beauty and ruins you might expect, while also offering a modern and friendly vacation experience.
6. Rio de Janeiro
Sure, if you’re visiting you have to pay a visit to Christ the Redeemer. But, there’s a whole hell of a lot more to this city than that! So, get exploring!
7. New York City
It Washington, D.C., is the political capitol of the United States, then New York City is its cultural capitol. Do a few of the touristy things, but be sure to experience the city the locals experience every day.
8. U.S. Virgin Islands
Don’t you think it’s high time you had a vacation in the Caribbean? If you’re lacking a passport, then it won’t be necessary when you go here!
9. The Bahamas
Passport not a concern? Well, the Bahamas are a favorite of travelers all over the world as well as the rich and famous for a reason. Maybe this is the year you find out why.
10. Vancouver, British Columbia
This incredible city that’s just north of the border on the West Coast has so much to offer. Truly, it’s something of a hidden gem… For now… Better get on it before everyone else catches on!
11. Hong Kong
Here is the place where West meets East. Visiting this former British protectorate is something that can’t be described; it can only be experienced.
12. Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii is what many people think of when they imagine paradise. More accurately, Maui is what many people think of when they imagine paradise. (They’re not that far off!)
13. Zurich
This incredible city manages to mix the best of contemporary existence with an environment populated by buildings and architecture from the Dark Ages. Incredible.
14. Cape Town, South Africa
This gorgeous city at the bottom of South Africa has long captured the imaginations of travelers all over the world. It’s a place you need to visit. Period.
15. Jerusalem
Not only is this one of if not the holiest places in the entire world, it’s also an incredibly vibrant and bustling metropolis. It should be on every world travelers list!
16. Paris
Don’t let recent news deter you from living out your dream Paris vacation. No act of terror can diminish the romance, history and flavor of this world cultural center.
17. Yellowstone National Park
People keep telling you that Yellowstone is the most beautiful place in the country. Why don’t you check it out for yourself? (You’re going to agree.)
18. Bora Bora
For our money, traveling to the untouched lagoons and small island of Bora Bora is the closest any traveler can come to feeling like a modern-day explorer.
19. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
When you want to go to a place where you can have the most relaxing day on the beach and the most exciting night on the town, this is where you should go.
20. Barcelona
Colorful, fun, historic, amazing. These are just four adjectives that we could use to describe this city in Spain. You’ll have hundreds more after you visit.
21. Maldives
Private-island resorts with overwater bungalows and 5-star amenities. Do you we really need to say more about why you should visit?
22. Las Vegas
You’ve been to Vegas? Great! Then you know what we’re talking about. If you haven’t been, then what have you been waiting for? Make 2016 the year!
23. Washington, D.C.
Sure, there are the museums, the monuments and buildings that house the federal government. But, D.C. also home to a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene.
24. Sydney
The residents of San Francisco sometimes believe they live in the prettiest city in the world; we think that’s only because they’ve never been to Sydney!
25. London
If you think San Francisco is getting expensive, then you haven’t seen what’s happening in London. We recommend visiting sooner rather than later!
