Although it is true that globalization and technology has made the world smaller, there are always amazing places to discover and rediscover for yourself. Here are some great travel ideas to inspire you.
8) Georgia
In recent years, Georgia (the country, not the state) has created a buzz for itself for its surprisingly great wine scene. But an outstanding bottle of wine is just one reason to visit this awesome place. Its capital, Tbilisi, has recently emerged as a hub of cool with its Brooklyn-esque undertones and its young, creative class. The country’s food is also becoming popular due to ingenious restaurants like the neo-bistro Le Montrachet, which is run by French Laundry alum Francesco Manalo. With its untouched terrain in the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia is also prepping to become the hottest winter playground for snowboarders and hardcore-skiers.
7) Oman
For years, Oman has been hailed by Europeans, particularly the Brits, as the ultimate holiday escape. It has only been recently that the Americans have picked up on the country’s cultural and natural attractions. As opposed to Dubai’s blinding bling, Oman provides amazing natural beauty in the form of rugged mountains, pristine coast and the vast desert.
6) Malaysia
Although Vietnam and Thailand have always been in the spotlight when it comes to southeast asia tourism, no one can deny that Malaysia’s art, architecture, cuisine and beaches are just as wonderful. The St. Regis just opened the country’s first all-suite resort at Langkawi, an archipelago consisting of 99 islands, located at Malaysia’s west coast. The Ritz-Carlton is also scheduled to open 30-villa, 90-room property with a destination spa that will give Thailand’s top wellness spas a run for their money.
5) Madagascar
Deemed as Africa’s version of Galapagos, Madagascar features fantastic wildlife that live nowhere else on the planet. Having opened just last June on the island of Nosy Ankao, Miavana is the country’s most exclusive beach resort, which aims to reinvent the traditional safari experience. The Sailing Collective also offers a seven-night cruise where adventurous types can island-hop the Nosy Be Archipelago.
4) Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s sun and surf have always been a big draw for tourists, but 2017 sees Sri Lanka as the next hottest wellness escape thanks to innovative retreats like Tri and Santani. The country’s fascinating wildlife will also be a treat to see when Resplendent Ceylon’s Wild Coast Tented Lodge opens this coming October at the edge of Yala National Park.
3) Trinidad and Tobago
Although Cuba will remain hot all through 2017, it is also complicated logistically. Instead of joining the “mad rush” to Cuba, why not head to Trinidad and Tobago? The alluring islands’ uncommon mix of one-of-a-kind culture and wild nature make them a refreshing option from the usual Caribbean beach vacation. Trinidad and Tobago offer a unique experience that mixes culture with beach lazing and jungle adventures.
2) Idaho
Although Idaho’s capital, Boise, does not have an Ace Hotel at the moment, it does offer hip lodging like the Modern Hotel + Bar. Boise also has creative hubs, indie coffee shops, distilleries and an awesome craft beer scene that needs to be checked out. There is also of course Boise Foothills’ incredible outdoors, including a 190-mile trail where tourists can hike, run or bike.
1) Jordan
If you are looking for an alternative to Spain’s Camino de Santiago then you should definitely consider a trip to Jordan. The Jordan Tail, which was recently completed after five years of work, connects the country’s varied landscapes, from the dramatic Jordan Rift Valley to the Mediterranean-esque villages of the north. Lodging options along the trail include Feynan Ecolodge, homestays and camping.
