As the excitement of Christmas comes to an end, our minds start to wander towards next year and the fact that there are still two long months of winter left to battle through before we start to see the warmth and sunshine of spring upon us. The best way to combat the winter blues? Start to plan next year’s summer holiday!
The top destinations for the following year are even more exotic than the last, and with exotic comes fruity cocktails, white sand and incredible sunsets. If that’s not quite your scene then not to worry, because 2018 is bringing a bit of everything when it comes to the top picks for vacations and if you’re struggling for ideas then this list is sure to give you some inspiration.
Chile
Chile is perhaps the epitome of beautiful and it’s not hard to see why it made number 1 for 2018’s top destinations. Located to the west of South America, Chile offers not only desert landscapes but also snow-capped mountains, icebergs and glaciers. The Torres del Paine National Park is perhaps one of Chile’s most amazing destinations, and if you’re a fan of the outdoors and enjoy a challenge, then hiking in these pristine surroundings and soaking up the nature and wildlife would truly be an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit Chile is between November and March, when temperatures are not too cold.
South Korea
South Korea is an up and coming destination for city breaks, and if you choose to visit Seoul then you will not be disappointed. Seoul is a city that is rich in culture, filled with bustling street markets, delicious foods and offers extremely high tech public transport, it could really be like no other city you have visited before. Spend a day visiting the impressive Gyeonbokgung palace, explore the Buddhist temples and if you fancy escaping the city for a day take a trip into the mountains and hills that surround the city (and also provide some pretty amazing views). The best time to visit South Korea is during spring time – between April and June – when the flowers are in bloom and the temperature is just warming up.
Portugal
Portugal is a perfect destination for those who want to combine a city break sight-seeing, visiting one of the many historical attractions that Lisbon has to offer along with a week relaxing on a secluded sandy beach along the coast. Portugal is popular with families because it can offer both of these very easily, and is also very good value for money. If you’re looking to plan a vacation that manages to please everyone, Portugal might be the place for you. The best time to visit Portugal, if you want to avoid the hordes of tourists is during springtime – February or autumn – October. During these seasons the landscapes are beautiful and the temperature mild.
Djibouti
This might be a destination you are unfamiliar with, and because of this you might want to consider picking Djibouti for you next trip – especially if you’re a traveller that seeks the untouched paths around the world. Tucked away in the corner of Eastern Africa, Djibouti has not yet become a mainstream holiday destination and therefore has a lot to explore. With a combination of landscapes including dry shrub land, white sand beaches and incredible volcanic formations, it really is a fascinating destination. Lake Assal, one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world also lies in in the Danakil Desert and is an impressive natural creation that is worth a visit. The best time to visit Djibouti is between November and December when the temperature is considerably cooler.
New Zealand
New Zealand is already a popular destination and it’s no surprise it has made it onto the top destination list yet again. Home to Lord of the Ring’s the incredible landscapes and untouched, natural forests that sweep through the North Island down to the South, it really is a stunning vacation destination. If New Zealand isn’t already on your list of places to visit, it really should be! If you’re less of an outdoors lover and more an urban fox, visit Auckland, Wellington or Queenstown and find yourself impressed with the culture, the nightlife and the city landscapes instead. The best time to visit New Zealand is between September and November when spring is coming into season and the views are rich and green.