New Year, new adventures! Where will this year take you? For the spontaneous or the undecided, we recommend 12 fantastic destinations that deserve to be included on the 2014 travel bucket list, one for each month of the year. Brazil, Cuba, Istanbul and the Balkans are some of our top choices for this year. Here’s why:
January: Nicaragua
Although a country with a turbulent past, Nicaragua is an exceptionally captivating destination worth exploring. Whether shopping for trinkets at local markets, venturing out into tropical rainforests, uncovering the mysteries of archaeological remains, spending the days suntanning at the beach or discovering the impressive volcanoes that populate the Caribbean archipelago, Nicaragua will not disappoint.
February: Buenos Aires
With the temperature in the upper 20s, Buenos Aires is a great place to get away to when winter is still in full force across Europe. Head to a football match and experience the pandemonium of the Argentinian fans, see a tango show in La Boca area or at Cafe Tortoni, Argentina’s oldest cafe, and stroll through the green fields of Buenos Aires’ biggest urban park, Bosques de Palermo. And we can’t forget about the gastronomy! Make sure you sample the excellent Malbec wine and a few alfajores (dulce de leche cookie sandwiches) for good measure while you’re there.
March: Cuba
There’s more to this destination than the all-inclusive vacations in Varadero. If you wish to discover a more authentic Cuba, you mustn’t shy away from exploring even the poorest of neighborhoods Get to know the residents and immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in the day-to-day activities; this way, you’ll truly uncover the most fascinating and surprising aspects of what it means to be Cuban.
April: Berlin
How could we not include Berlin in our list of places to see in 2014? The German capital has it all: history, art, shopping, street performances, music, architecture and museums. And let’s not forget the gastronomy: traditional German pastries for breakfast, Currywurst (sausage with curry sauce) for lunch and of course Kaffee & Kuchen (coffee and cake) in the afternoon. What more could you ask for?
May: Madrid
Madrid is beautiful throughout the year but even more so in May when all the trees throughout the city are in bloom. Spend the days admiring the architecture, visiting local museums, strolling through Retiro Park and sampling the local gastronomy (the fried calamari in Plaza Mayor is one dish you must try), and the nights exploring some of the more bohemian areas like Huertas, Argüelles or Moncloa. If you enjoy street performances and live concerts, be sure to book your flights to Madrid around the 15th of May when the city celebrates the Feast Day of San Isidro.
June: Lisbon
June is the ideal month to visit Lisbon. Not only is the climate perfect, but it also happens to be the month when the city celebrates the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua (aka the Sardine Fest). Its the best time of the year to sample the Portuguese gastronomy, mingle with the residents and participate in local activities. And whatever you do, don’t leave before watching a live fado performance!
July: Brazil
Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest in the world. With its dream beaches, hospitable people and rich culture, it is definitely a destination worth experiencing from up-close. This year the country is also hosting the FIFA World Cup – yet another reason to visit Brazil in 2014!
August: Santorini
Renting a boat and spending a couple of weeks sailing between Greek islands is a spectacular way to end the summer. One of the most beautiful and popular ones has got to be the volcanic island of Santorini. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, incredible beaches, crystal clear waters and active volcano, Santorini is a magical destination worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
September: the Balkans
With all its different cultures and traditions, travelling to this region of Europe can be truly rewarding. Visit the little picturesque towns of Bosnia and Herzegovina, admire the lakes of Montenegro or swim in the crystal clear waters of Croatia. We especially recommend that you visit the Bay of Kotor, Sarajevo and the Durmitor National Park.
October: Istanbul
Avoid the peak travel season and visit Istanbul in autumn instead! The climate will still be relatively warm and you can explore this fascinating city with greater ease than in summer when you would most likely find it overrun by tourists. Must-dos: go for a walk around the bohemian district of Beyoglu or catch a ferry and admire the city from afar. And of course, sampling the Turkish cuisine is a must!
November: Nepal
Visiting Nepal can be a true spiritual experience, especially for those who enjoy meditating and spending time in nature. Exploring the magical Buddhist temples of Kathmandu, embarking on a trekking adventure around Annapurna and watching the sunrise from the Saranghot hilltop are a few of the things you must experience firsthand. And if you have time, you should definitely visit the ancient town of Bhaktapur, now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautifully preserved Newari architecture.
December: Edinburgh
When in the UK, you should stop in Edinburgh. Scotland’s capital is a remarkable city, with a lot to offer – culture, history, food, literary routes and much more! If you plan on visiting the city in December, you should book your flights to Edinburgh sometime around Christmas when the Scottish celebrate the festival of Hogmanay (aka the Scottish New Year’s Eve) – you’re guaranteed to be in for a treat!
How about you? Where would you like to travel in 2014?
