Feeling the call of the open road? We can’t blame you: Whether planning a family vacation or romantic getaway, the world’s a vast and wonderful place just waiting to be explored. Best of all, thanks to travelers’ growing appetite for exotic locales, unforgettable experiences, and lively escapes, there’s never been a better time to get out and experience its sights. Following, you’ll find 10 of the best new places to travel in 2017, 2018 and beyond (and one old), all of which have been rising to the top of tourists’ lists in recent months with good reason: Each offers a lifetime of memories waiting to be made.
Oh, Canada
Why: It’s been 150 years since Canada’s confederation: A host of celebrations will be occurring at a national level, and throughout the different provinces, promising a variety of must-see activities to go with a host of legendary sights, attractions, and dining and entertainment options.
Where, Especially: Montreal. As a country, Canada’s a wee babe compared to this Quebecois city, which is celebrating its 375th anniversary. Stroll the streets of Old Montreal, sample the city’s culinary delights at restaurants or farmer’s markets (and be sure to enjoy poutine and bagels) or enjoy one of the dozens of cultural events planned for visitors from every corner of the globe.
Onward to Oman
http://www.omantourism.gov.om/
Why: Travel writers (and editors, for that matter) are enchanted with this Middle Eastern oasis. From five-star resorts to turtle hatching to scuba diving expeditions, the sheer variety of sights and natural wonders on offer courtesy of
this Middle Eastern sultanate may help it become one of the world’s next big travel destinations.
Where, especially: Majarat Oman, a $120 million indoor theme and water park for families is expected to open this year.
Fine Find, Finland
Why: Anytime is a good time to visit this friendly Scandinavian country, but Finland is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, so its already considerable wow-factor will be upped exponentially. Nature, saunas, amazing architecture and equally amazing cuisine are just some of the attractions. Note to self: You’ll probably find yourself looking forward to that aurora borealis thing, too.
Where, especially: Helsinki. The Finnish capital is a walkable, enjoyable, seaside city, and this year, the coastal island of Vallisaari is finally open to visitors.
CHEAT SHEET: Money Magazine – Best Places to Travel in 2017
Suitable South Africa
http://country.southafrica.net/country/us/en/
Why: Safaris, vineyards, breath-taking natural beauty and culture await. Want to make a lifetime memory? Tour the countryside, take a luxury train ride, or stay in Nelson Mandela’s old house, which just opened as a resort.
Where, Especially: Capetown. The long-awaited Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa will open in September. Think MOMA, but for a continent.
Now Playing in Nashville
Why: Music City’s a must-visit destination for music lovers any time, but this year marks the 150th anniversary of the Ryman Auditorium, the 50th anniversary of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the 35th anniversary of the Bluebird Café. Something tells us the soundtrack will be amazing.
Where, especially: Visit Studio B where Elvis recorded or enjoy free music from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. every day on Honky Tonk Row. Plan to stick around for a while if the band’s playing a Johnny Cash song – you won’t want to miss out.
Genuine Germany
http://www.germany.travel/en/index.html
Why: From straight-from-a-fairytale castles to cutting edge cultural hotspots, Germany’s always been a popular destination, and a strikingly diverse range of natural wonders and cityscapes continue to draw tourists from countless nations.
Where, Especially: Hamburg’s always been a bustling port city, but this year, enjoy the unveiling of the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, a fantastic fantasy of a concert hall with a stunning glass structure atop a brick warehouse.
CHEAT SHEET: Travel + Leisure – Best Places to Travel in 2017
Incoming, Indianapolis
Why: Race car aficionados and football fans have always loved this Midwestern hub. But the city’s burgeoning culinary scene and luxury hotel offerings make it an especially comfortable destination for newcomers seeking to discover its hidden surprises.
Where, Especially: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the best children’s museum in the world and one of the best venues of its kind globally, making it a must-see for kids of all ages. (And welcome breather for parents tired of hearing “But I’m so boooored.”)
Just Japan
http://us.jnto.go.jp/top/index.php
Why: Ancient culture, natural beauty and modern luxuries all converge in this island nation, where you can as readily take in late-night karaoke amidst neon lights as wake up early to dine for breakfast on beer and freshly-caught sushi.
Where, Especially: A just-completed bullet train line has shortened the trip from Tokyo to the western coast city of Kanazawa to just 2 ½ hours. Enjoy culture, natural beauty, delicious repasts and more… and at cheaper prices than you’ll find in most major population centers.
Amazing Argentina
https://www.welcomeargentina.com/index_i.html
Why: From jungles to vineyards, cultural landmarks to guachos, Argentina is one of the most cosmopolitan South American destinations, and a welcome stopover for metropolitan visitors looking to soak up its vibrant charm.
Where, Especially: Buenos Aires is always a great place to learn to tango, but this year, the city is starting a series of cultural events called Art Basel Cities to promote local talent within the international art world.
CHEAT SHEET: The New York Times – 52 Places to Go in 2017
Everything Ecuador
Why: Long viewed as the gateway to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is in actuality so much more, offering volcanoes, the Equator (and yes, FYI, standing with one foot in each hemisphere is definitely worth the journey), and plenty of hiking, biking and other adventurous excursions to enjoy. You can experience a little bit of everything here, from culture to city life and eco-friendly travel, and experience the kind of once-in-a-lifetime adventure few destinations can offer.
Where, especially: Guayaquil is oft the actual jumping off spot for Darwin-esque excursions, but this port city’s been expanding its travel options including the new yet historic Hotel del Parque and expanded river promenade. Hint: Yes, you can still dine on guinea pig here (a delicacy locally referred to as cuy), but for less adventurous eaters, the avocado potato soup (locro de papa) may provide a more traditional alternative.
Can’t Miss Cuba
Why: This most-storied of destinations still remains a must-do on most bucket lists, and all it takes is just a short flight from Miami to experience its storybook charms. While you still have to get a special visa to enter, the rum, cigars and ever-lively locals make it well worth the trip, and a visit to remember.
Where, Especially: Since travel opportunities have opened up, many have flocked to Havana, but now it’s time to explore into the countryside and outside the capital: You may be surprised at what you find past city limits.
Jeanette Hurt is the award-winning writer and author of eight culinary and drink books, including The Cheeses of California: A Culinary Travel Guide, which received the 2010 Mark Twain Award for Best Travel Book, and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Wine and Food Pairing. She's written for TheKitchn.com, Four Seasons Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Entrepreneur.com, and dozens more publications.
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