It’s that time of the year again, where fans of the easy coastal ideal or the cosmopolitan urban experience book their tickets to indulge their wanderlust.
For this year, take a look at some of the best places to visit—
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Singapore
This tiny, cosmopolitan city is turning 50 this year so expect a lot of activity and events leading up to this massive milestone. The country is a regular destination for some of the biggest music festivals, drawing global musical acts. Shopping is diverse—with everything from signature brands to unique and kitschy finds at your fingertips. If you’re in for a more urban holiday, Singapore’s nightlife is just as impressive as the city—high-gloss, bustling and sophisticated so be sure to pack appropriately for it.
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New York
If 17 hours of air travel isn’t an issue for you, there’s no better time than now to visit the Big Apple. Over 10 years since 9/11 and the One World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial has finally opened, making it a must-see. It almost goes without saying how many things you can do in the city. Take a full day to just walk around Lower Manhattan, starting at the Chelsea Market to prep for you full day of sightseeing and just see where your curiosity takes you. From there, take note of places that you want to come back for in the evening to get a taste of the infamous New York nightlife.
Adelaide, Australia
Sydney is great and all, but there’s something about the capital of South Australia, a region so steeped in culture that compels tourists to stay and indulge in the city’s energetic arts scene. Year round, the city is famous for events such as the Adelaide Film Festival, Adelaide Festival, SALA to name a few. To complement this, the city is known for its diverse dining options and evolving music scene.
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Seoul, Korea
A country that is equally historic as it is modern. Korea combines their country’s rich heritage with all the urban implements of a thriving city through a combination of architecture, arts and design. It’s a place that focuses on numerous interests, from history to arts, a colorful Kpop scene and vibrant shopping and dining options.
Shanghai, China
A cultural awakening is happening in China, where the draw of museums and other cultural destinations are becoming too hard to resist for art aficionados. Private museums and collectors are now opening their doors to tourists who want to admire the beautiful works. In addition, China is long-known melting pot of different cultures that creates for a diverse, vibrant holiday.
Lyon, France
Paris, as beautiful as it is, can feel a little ubiquitous. If you’re planning a trip to France, take a side trip to Lyon instead. A city renowned most especially for the food and culinary scene. To complement the quaint vibe of the city, new sights including the science and anthropology museum and a brand new arts and music venue, La Sucriere will breathe new life and experiences to this choice destination.
Vietnam
Vietnam feels quaint and historic, but if you head over to Phu Quoc via a 10-hour ferry—making this particular destination more ideal for intrepid spirits—you’ll be ushered into a coastal paradise hugged by white-sand beaches. Sao Beach deserves a special mention for its access to impressive snorkeling sites.
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Bali
Another South East Asian destination that offers the refreshing ease of a unique seaside destination that only the most discerning of water babies know. Everywhere around Bali is no more than a few hours away from another destination just as stunning as the other.
Laos
Don’t be too quick to chalk this up as a backpackers haven. Laos is home to stylishly designed floating bungalows, featuring spacious rooms, private decks, private pools and dining options. Here you’ll have access to a sprawling coastline with options to take a leisurely trek across the countryside or cycle through the beautiful natural attractions of the country.
Goa, India
For a stylish safari style trek, explore India. The main city is as busy and interesting as any urban center, but off the beaten path in Goa is a transformed hideaway tucked amid sandy shores, a saltwater creek and gourmet dining options to highlight that rustic charm.
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