January is almost over. As people return to work, children go back to school and students begin their year of study, the thought of another holiday often pops into our head! We make our resolutions and decide we will start this new year fresh and determined to succeed at whatever our goals may be.
Dreaming of far off destinations, unseen sunsets and being able to experience a place we have never seen before (or return to a much-loved destination) are common thoughts. With a travel bucket list that continues to grow each year, sometimes the hardest part is deciding where to go. Do you want warm or cold weather? Are you seeking adventure or a relaxing getaway? Are you travelling solo or with your family/ friends? Do you want to do a tour or your own thing?
There are so many amazing places in this world, we couldn’t possibly fit everywhere in just one blog post. So, we’ve decided to start with looking at what Lonely Planet have released as their top picks for 2017 (not just because our very own South Australia was named in the top 5 regions), but because we believe there are some truly remarkable locations on the list.
Best Country – Canada
Garibaldi Lake
2017 is a special year for Canada – not only because they’ve been named Lonely Planet’s Number 1 country to visit in 2017 – but because this year marks their 150th Anniversary of Confederation. Boasting the longest coastline in the world and with over 45 National Parks, there’s an array of beautiful scenery and unique nature to experience. Canada is home to native bears, whales, beavers and much more wildlife and you can get up close and personal with some of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re out in the wilderness seeking adrenaline pumping adventure or soaking it all in visiting one of its many cities, there’s no doubt as to why Canada has made the top of the list!
Best City – Bordeaux, France
Pont de Pierre bridge, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is one of the leading French producers of wine – do we need to add anything more?
Apart from being able to taste some delicious wine and food and being the location of the world’s main wine festival – the Vinexpo, Bordeaux is a city rich in history. Museums, architecture, art, theatre and so much more lies in this vibrant and exciting city.
Best region – Choquequirao, Peru
Choquequirao, South America
Referred to as Machu Picchu’s ‘sister’, Choquequirao is one of the most remote Inca ruins in the Peruvian Andes. The trek to Choquequirao is not for the faint-hearted, with no buses or trains available (there is a cable car being built as we speak) the only way to reach this incredible sight is by hiking. With archaeologists still discovering knowledge of these ruins, it’s an intriguing destination to visit. A less busy and quieter alternative to Machu Picchu – but maybe now not for long!
Best value – Nepal
View of Everest from Gokyo ri . Nepal
This breathtaking destination gives travellers the chance to escape from the modern world, challenge themselves with hiking and trekking and become immersed in the picturesque mountain scenery of this Himalayan wonder. Whether it’s the mountain tops you’re after, the many sacred sites, or the jungle adventures there is so much to see and do for people of all ages and for those seeking the thrill of adventure.
We know planning holidays is not always easy, knowing where to start and how to make the most of your time and budget in a certain location is difficult at first. There are a range of options to suit everyone and you can tailor your holiday to suit you and ensure you get the most out of every minute (and remember we’re here to help and more than happy to offer first hand advice on the must do’s!)
There’s a whole world out there waiting for you to discover – filled with interesting new cultures, delicious local cuisines, amazing wildlife, unique nature and so much more…and there’s no better time than the present to start planning!
