Photo courtesy of Colombia Tourism.
Colombia
Lonely Planet deems this South American country one of the best spots to drop your bags in 2017. And it’s not hard to understand why. Colombia is having a revival of sorts. Once ravaged by civil unrest, a newly calmed society means that scouting out amazing culture and food (Bogotá is a great place to start) and exploring awe-inspiring wilderness are easier and more inviting for everyday travellers.
The romance of Suzhou.
Suzhou, China
One peek at the incredible ancient gardens and tree-lined canals will make you do a double-take in this city about two hours outside of Shanghai. (Are you in Venice or China?) The romantic city may be bustling with 10 million people but a gondola ride through the narrow waterways, a trip to a sacred temple, a cozy cup of tea and a lingering stroll in the garden will make your forget the buzz. And, as a side note, it’s a food-lover's delight and home to some of the best noodles you’ll ever taste.
Suchitoto, El Salvador showcases the country's beautiful lakes and volcanoes.
El Salvador
2017 is the year to stop making El Salvador a stopover en route to Costa Rica or Honduras. This Central America country has so much to offer, especially if you’re looking for some adventure. Home to 23 active volcanoes (and countless inactive ones as well), there’s no shortage of hiking and crater trekking to be done. It also boasts some of the best surfing you’ll find anywhere (hit up the volcanic sand El Tunco beach and test out the impressive swells).
Peru has long been a top travel destination.
Lima
Peru has been a travel hot spot for years now, with Machu Picchu drawing thousands of tourists looking to be enchanted by the Inca wonder. But now Lima is standing in its own spotlight. It nabbed a top spot on National Geographic Traveller’s best 2017 destinations list, and we’re giving it a big thumbs up for its eclectic foodie vibe. Dig your teeth into casual and fine dining-style Peruvian treats (try guinea pig and alpaca, if you dare), not to mention the bursting international foodie scene too.
Lake Louise in Canada is picture-perfect for Instagram.
Canada
Canada has a lot going for it right now. The vast country features vibrant, diverse cities and unparalleled natural beauty. And it’s a country that's coming into its own and bursting with pride as it rings in its 150th birthday. Major celebrations will be happening across the entire country all year long and, as an added bonus for nature lovers, entry to every National Park in the country will be free for the entire year.
Photo courtesy of Malta Tourism.
Malta
You know there has to be something special about a place that National Geographic names one of the best spots to visit in 2017. Home to three World Heritage sites, Malta is getting a lot of attention thanks to being one of the magnificent set locations for Game of Thrones. And the small island nation is calling out not just to GOT buffs but also to history buffs.
Photo courtesy of Azores Tourism.
Azores
While Lisbon and Portugal have been touted as favourite European destinations the past few years, it’s time for the islands off the coast of Portugal to have their own moment. Dubbed by Lonely Planet as the “next Iceland,” this gem is like a cross between Hawaii and Ireland with all the charm and flavours of Portugal. That’s enough said for us.
Photo courtesy of Detroit Tourism.
Detroit
This Michigan city has been buzzing around the travel world for a few years now. After a massive hit from the recession, Detroit has started to make a slow, deliberate come back. Now its grit is mixed with a happening food culture (where hole-in-the-wall restaurants live true to their insanely good food stereotype), local designer shops (if you haven’t heard of or checked out Detroit-based Shinola yet, it’s a must) and countless Instagramable opportunities.
Photo courtesy of Anchorage Tourism.
Anchorage
There’s no place quite like Alaska, which is probably why Anchorage has also made National Geographic’s top destinations list. You can’t beat the incredible views, the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, plus the city is a great jumping-off point for the many nearby national parks. It’s the spot to get to if you’re seeking adventure—bear spotting, glacier hiking, fly fishing and so much more are at your fingertips.
Photo courtesy of Finland Tourism.
Finland
Helsinki is one of those smaller cities that leaves an impression on you right away. The friendliness of the people, the fresh, local beers and food, the simplistic and vibrant food—it’s frankly just a cool spot, no matter the year or season. The rest of the country is no exception, and if you’re looking to fall in love with winter and snow again, this is your spot to do it.
