Every year, the travel industry releases its top destinations for the following year. Some are predictable; Italy makes the list almost yearly. Others are not so predictable; Sri Lanka is a hot one this year. Someone once told me to pay attention when I hear the same destination over and over… Sri Lanka will definitely be hot this year. But what else makes the list of top travel destinations for 2018? Some are easy to get to, others not so much. This list explores the destinations and why you’re going to want to get there.
Top travel destinations for 2018
Virtuoso polled its advisors this past fall, asking about the destinations our clients visit. They rank the top destinations, listing them by family travel, honeymoon travel, millennial travel, and others. Some destinations make the top travel destinations list in various categories, like Iceland. Others are emerging destinations, visited by the early adopters but now on the world radar. Here are some of the top travel destinations for 2018, from ecological wonders to historical cultures and pop culture hotspots.
Bolivia
From the otherworldly landscape of the Uyuni salt flat to hydrofoil cruises on Lake Titicaca, Bolivia has a lot to offer without the crowds you’ll find in its more trafficked South American neighbours. One of only two landlocked countries on the continent (Paraguay is the other), Bolivia has unique geography, ranging from the Amazon basin to Andean highlands, and is full of Inca trails and ruins ripe for exploring. The silver mines of Potosi produced so much for the Spanish Empire that it was once the second largest city in the Americas, and the lagoons of the Salar de Uyuni are home to a wealth of unique flora and fauna and serve as a breeding ground for several species of flamingos.
Go to Bolivia between May and October. This is their winter as well as the dry season. However, it’s also the high season. For shoulder season, go in September or October.
Northern Ireland
Just like its counterpart, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland is full of natural beauty. It’s so alluring that is has served as a frequent filming location for Game of Thrones and the Star Wars franchise. Giant’s Causeway, made of thousands of interlocking basalt columns, is a unique geological site and right outside the town of Bushmills, home to one of Northern Ireland’s many whiskey distilleries. There is uncertainty about Northern Ireland’s future in the wake of the Brexit decision. However, the country has come a long way since The Troubles and is asserting itself a top destination in its own right.
Go to Northern Ireland in the spring, summer, or fall, as that is when the temperatures are warm (ish) and its not rainy. However, this is also when everyone else visits, so just be aware it will be crowded.
Iceland
Iceland makes the list of top travel destinations in several categories. Families like it, millennials like it, and adventurers like it. And what’s NOT to like? Natural hot pools under lush green mountains, barren landscapes with epic hikes, astounding waterfalls. These are only some of the things you’ll find in Iceland. Capital Reykjavik is a destination in itself, with culinary experiences, cultural events, and great local shopping.
Go to Iceland year round. The long summer days (24 hours of sun!) mean plenty of time for sightseeing while the winter affords excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
Sri Lanka
Remember when I said to pay attention if you hear the same place mentioned over and over? Well, Sri Lanka is that for me. I’ve heard it mentioned so frequently in the past year that I assume everyone and their dog is going to Sri Lanka. Luckily, it’s still pretty off the beaten track for a lot of people so now is the time to go if you want delicious local food, crumbling ruins devoid of crowds, and abundant wildlife. The recently reopened Yal Devi Express train runs between Colomba and Jaffna, a unique way to see this emerging destination. In the cultural centre, there are no less than FIVE UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
Go to Sri Lanka all year round, although be aware of the wet seasons which vary from between the four regions. In general, though, temperatures are consistent year round due to Sri Lanka’s position at the Equator. For the cultural centre, go in anytime except November and December.
Croatia
Croatia is another emerging destination. It’s a historical destination, well known for the walled city of Dubrovnik, but also home to eleven nature parks. Croatia enjoys a rich heritage, with seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and influences from four very diverse cultures. Game of Thrones is also filmed here, and tours dedicated to the award-winning show are popular. Croatian food and wine is influenced by its Slavic roots, Mediterranean location, and the Ancient Greek horti- and vinicultures. If you want to immerse yourself in the local traditions, Croatia is a great place to do so!
Go in the spring or summer, when temperatures reach into the high 70s Fahrenheit. Fall is the best time to take a GoT tour, though, and temperatures will still be quite nice.
