The arrival of the New Year brings with it new hopes, desires and aspirations. While we make plans for our professional and personal lives, we often forget to think about vacations. However, this is also important as nothing refreshes and rejuvenates you like a good holiday with family, friends or even on your own. For a traveller, the world is an oasis. But choosing a particular destination amongst so many can be confusing. Hence, we have come up with 10 best countries to visit on a holiday in 2019. You are sure to find at least one of them as interesting, igniting the wanderlust in you.
Belarus
Belarus is a not-so-known European country, which is slowly gaining popularity for tourism. One of the main reasons for visiting this country is that it is endowed with beautiful nature. Complete with lush forests, interesting national parks, turquoise rivers and lakes, Belarus has several places where you can rent a farmhouse and spend quality time amidst nature. Moreover, the history of the country is also interesting and something you would want to explore. For people interested in sports, Belarus is hosting the European Games in 2019, at the end of the month of June. Another reason for choosing Belarus for your holiday this year is that it is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.
Vietnam
If a holiday in Europe seems too much for your budget, the Southeast Asian country of Vietnam would be something you would love. Blessed with natural beauty, rich culture and delicious food, Vietnam has plenty of things to see and do. Explore the French colonial history in the capital city of Hanoi, cruise along the Halong Bay while admiring the enormous limestone rocks and emerald waters, and visit the beautiful temples, found in most cities, for their architecture and calm vibes. The Vietnamese cuisine is also something you need to explore. The street food stalls selling local food is not just cheap but also absolutely delicious. Do not forget to try the mouth-watering varieties of Vietnamese coffees, including yogurt coffee, white coffee, egg coffee, coffee smoothies, etc.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a country far away from the rest of the world, and travelling to this country seems to be a difficult journey. But, do make it because you would definitely be rewarded for your time and patience. The picturesque landscapes of New Zealand are to die for. Comprising of two main islands and several smaller ones, this country is blessed with diverse sceneries including tropical forests, snow-covered mountains, beaches, off-shore islands, hot springs, rolling green pastures, volcanoes, fjords, etc. Moreover, the place is not crowded, so much so that you may not find even a soul for several miles. The best thing about visiting New Zealand is that it offers several adventurous outdoor activities like skiing, kayaking, bungee jumping, parachuting, sailing, snowboarding, surfing, caving, etc. But the major highlight of the country is its people who are extremely warm and friendly.
Colombia
Until recently, Colombia was considered to be an unsafe country due to the ongoing civil war between the government and a paramilitary organization. However, all this ended in 2016, making it a safe country to visit and you must do so this year. It is a well-known fact that Colombia is a gorgeous country with beaches with turquoise waters, lush tropical jungles and golden deserts. The country is also home to vibrant cities and a rich colonial history. You must visit Medellin for its innovative architecture, Eje Cafetero for its numerous coffee plantations, Cartagena for its colonial architecture, Bogota for its historical and cultural attractions and Blanca for its luscious beaches. Be it a family holiday or a solo trip, Colombia has a lot to offer for people of everyone.
United Arab Emirates
If you are looking for a holiday destination in the Middle East, there is no better place than the United Arab Emirates or UAE. Amongst the seven emirates of the country, Dubai is surely the most famous. Known for its tall structures, enormous malls, vast deserts and state-of-the-art adventure and theme parks, Dubai is a great family holiday destination. Be it a visit to the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world) or an abra ride on the Dubai Creek, Dubai offers a wide range of experiences. The neighbouring Emirate, Abu Dhabi (also the capital of the UAE) has lots to offer in terms of culture and adventure. The other Emirate cities of Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quiwan also offer some really interesting historical, cultural and tourist spots. While some countries are offered visa on arrival, there are several countries that have to apply for a visa by fulfilling the UAE or Dubai visa requirements. The visa to UAE can be applied online.
Sri Lanka
Another country that was ignored by the world because of the unrest prevalent there was Sri Lanka. However, today it is considered to be one of the best countries to visit in Asia and should definitely be on your bucket list. A Sri Lankan holiday is a complete package as you get to enjoy beautiful landscapes, cultural insights, historical landmarks, spiritual experiences and delicious food. To verdant, green mountains to pristine, untouched beaches, there is a lot to explore in Sri Lanka. Moreover, the place has the best wildlife after Africa. You would be able to see some beautiful Buddhist and Hindu temples and also have a scrumptious gourmet experience. Another great thing about holidaying in Sri Lanka, is that you are able to enjoy luxury at a really reasonable price.
Italy
Italy is known for its art, culture and delicious food, and it is also a popular European destination. However, most people stick to Rome, Florence and Venice when it comes to their Italian holiday. So, in 2019, the Italian authorities are focusing on the lesser known places of Italy. By reactivating several heritage railway lines, tourists would be able to access some of the historical, natural and cultural rich areas of Italy, easily. Apart from checking out the more popular tourist spots, get ready to explore the medieval walled towns, alpine lakes with crystal clear waters, organic farms, small Italian villages and towns, and several historical and artistic treasures. Also, 2019 marks the 500th Death Anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci, so definitely treat yourself with some artistic events and exhibitions in Italy!
Indonesia
Bali is the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Indonesia. While Bali is surely one of the most gorgeous places on earth, Indonesia has a lot more to offer. Comprising of more than 17,000 islands and 300 ethnicities, it is a haven for people who love nature, adventure, culture and good food. Be it the congested, yet lively city of Jakarta, the gorgeous temples and mountains of Java, the active and dormant volcanoes of Mount Bromo, the serene beauty of Lake Toba, the tribes of Baliem Valley or the extremely exciting national parks, there is a lot to do in Indonesia. Moreover, you can enjoy boundless luxury at really affordable prices.
Germany
History, culture and natural beauty are what await you on your holiday in Germany. Be it Munich, Berlin or Hamburg, you would be able to see and experience the old traditions and values of this European country in its every city. Apart from this, there are mysterious forests, small towns, splendid mountains and historical cities to explore in Germany. Some of the places you should not miss when you are holidaying in Germany include the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, the Rhine, Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, Neuschwanstein, The island of Rugen, Sanssouci Palace and Park, Zugspitze Massif, the Black Forest, etc. If you holiday in Germany, you would be treated with sights of incredible places, both natural and manmade.
Georgia
One of the countries in Europe that is sure to stun you with its beauty is Georgia. Although a small country, it has recently found popularity amongst tourists from all around the world. The eclectic city of Tbilisi, the highest European village of Ushguli, the mountain villages of Tusheti and Khevsureti and the mysterious cave cities found in Uplitstsikhe, Vardzia and Mount Gareja, are some of the places awaiting you in Georgia. Another interesting fact about Georgia is that it is believed to be the birthplace of wine, where there is evidence of the Stone Age people producing wine, some 8000 years ago. Apart from the wine and the vineyards, the cuisine of Georgia is also something that you can look forward to during your visit to the country.
If you get bored of your life and routine in the city and want to enjoy some time amidst nature or get pampered in luxury, these travel destinations would provide you with what you wish for. With this note, we wish you some amazing holidays in 2019!
Don’t forget to share your best holiday snaps with us on Instagram by tagging @bambaexperience or #bambaexperience.