What kind of traveller are you? Do you seek thrill and adventure or do ancient historical sites beckon you? Do you prefer a quiet spot on white sunny shores or does the allure of stunning landscapes summon you? Do you travel for gastronomical pleasures or to see new places and experience new cultures? Whatever it is about travel, that delights you, CNN Travel has it covered.
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CNN Travel’s 19 places to visit in 2019 is a carefully curated list for the travel enthusiast. It walks you through some of the best, most sought-after travel destinations across the globe. Here is hoping this will help you with your travel plans.
Christchurch – New Zealand
The city bounced back, after the 2011 earthquake, that had wreaked havoc. Christchurch rebuilt itself into a vibrant city, with brilliant street art that resonates courage and strength.
Tourist attractions include the Canterbury Museum, with exhibits on the city’s history, including the earthquakes. The International Antarctic Centre packs in information, along with entertainment and fun. Punt on the River Avon or immerse in the serenity of the wildlife parks and gardens. Discover the rich Maori culture and explore Kakano, the traditional Maori cooking school and café.
Egypt
Egyptian history is intriguing; the country’s historically rich past never fails to captivate. Get transported into an ancient world, as you discover the famous monuments – the Sphinxes and the Pyramids, and the mummies and tombs.
Fukuoka – Japan
There is more to Japan than Mount Fuji. The coastal city of Fukuoka promises to be a new travel experience. It is a modern city, like most of Japan, and it is also breathtakingly scenic. Visit the city in spring to watch the wisterias bloom, in all their glory, at the Kawachi Fuji-en Garden. Yanagawa, an hour’s drive away, is celebrated for its scenic views. Enjoy a boat ride here. Other places worth seeing include the ruins of the Kokura Castle, Dazaifu Tenmangu and the Kyushu National Museum. Tickle your taste buds with some authentic Japanese seafood.
Ghana – West Africa
The country is flourishing; it has a good economy and is politically stable, and makes for a safe travel destination. Tourists can enjoy a good nightlife or head to the coast for some warm sun and surf.
Wildlife enthusiasts have much to be happy about, as protected wildlife national parks, lets them see animals in their natural habitat. The Whistling Rocks, in the Tengzug Hills, are worth a visit.
Grand Canyon, United States
The Grand Canyon needs no introduction. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the natural wonders of the world. The canyon is millions of years old; go there to hike or to be one with nature’s miracle.
Hawaii, United States
The Halemaumau crater, at Kilauea Volcano, draws thousands of tourists each day. Hawai is calm and scenic; it has one of the most beautiful, yet most varied landscape. Visit Hawai, for a relaxed holiday, among the azure waters and the white sands. Remember to feast on scrumptious seafood delicacies, while you are there.
The Hebrides, Scotland
The Hebridean Islands can be reached by ferry from mainland Scotland or by air from Glasgow. The ride on the choppy Atlantic Ocean is an experience in itself. The most fascinating feature on the islands are the boulders at Callanish. They are pretty similar to the boulders in Stonehenge, erected in a circle.
Hop across the different islands – Isle of Lewis, Skye, Islay, Iona and soak in the beauty of these places.
Jaffa, Israel
The perfect destination for shoppers looking to buy unique pieces of jewellery, antiques, candles, sculptures and paintings. The narrow streets, lined with stores, displaying and selling rare pieces of artwork, is a delight.
The orange-blossom perfume and banana scented soaps, from Zielinski & Rosen, are also highly recommended.
Kerala, India
Located in the Southern part of India, Kerala is abounding with natural beauty. Swaying palms, spice and coffee plantations, backwaters snaking through paddy fields, sandy beaches and the Arabian Sea. For a unique experience, rent a houseboat, instead of staying at a hotel. Trek through the jungles and go on guided tours to the Wildlife Reserve Forests and National Parks.
Read More about the Places to visit in Kerala
Liechtenstein
Listed as one of the world’s smallest country, Liechtenstein is just 160 sq. km. It lies between Switzerland and Austria and is just beautiful. Hiking and biking trails through alpine terrains, museums and stunning stone castles, this tiny nation will help you create wonderful memories.
Lima, Peru
Peru is known not only for the Inca Trail and the Machu Picchu but also as a foodie destination. Three of the world’s best 50 restaurants are located here. If gourmet food is what you want, make a beeline for Lima. Imagine sitting through a 17-course, elevation-based meal, where ingredients are locally procured, and sourced from different elevations.
New York
The New-York skyline is picture-postcard perfect. It is a city that never sleeps. It is also home to some of the most iconic structures in the world, namely, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center and Broadway. Walk through the streets of New York and you will know why it is the land of the free, home of the brave.
Normandy, France
Normandy is your quintessential town, with a lot of history. Here you will trace the footsteps of William the Conqueror. You will get in touch with a history that changed the world. It was here the Allies defeated the Nazis.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is famous for Monte Alban, a protected World Heritage Site. It is an amalgamation of different things that can interest tourists – ruins, art, mezcal (a local alcoholic beverage) and cuisine.
Oman
Oman provides some of the most stunning views in the Arabian Peninsula. Sand dunes, camels, rolling mountains and green terrains and the turquoise sea inhabited by dolphins.
Try different adventures here – sand-skiing, camel-racing and 4-wheel drive dune bashing.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Walk along cobbled streets, lined with Roman ruins. The ancient Roman Amphitheatre comes alive in the evenings. You can catch artists put up spectacular performances here.
St. Barts, French West Indies
The Caribbean Islands are paradise on earth. St. Barts wears a festive spirit during Christmas and New Year. It is easy to spot celebrities, lounging on the beaches. The fireworks organised for the New Year celebration are spectacular.
Space Coast, United States
Step into space, while still on planet Earth. The Kennedy Space Center walks you down the history of America’s space programme. Check the exhibits on the Hubble Telescope and the Space Shuttle or go get on a shuttle launch simulator, for a ride of your lifetime.
Weimar, Germany
Visit the museums, memorials and monuments that dot the town. Weimar will transport you back in time. The quaint little town was named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The best way to see the place and learn about its history is to go on a walking tour.
