Have you arranged your 2018 holiday getaways yet? The year 2018 is quickly proving to be a significant one for travel, so now is the moment to organize your trips. With more and more U.S. travelers venturing to far-flung destinations, opting for the typical, well-known cities for a vacation is becoming less appealing.
If you're set for an escapade in 2018, organize your upcoming holiday to one of this year's most popular locations. With an increasing number of airlines expanding routes to previously unexplored parts of the world, you'll find yourself traveling greater distances than ever before. From remote places around the world to adjacent urban areas undergoing vibrant rebirths, this year is ideal for exploring new and exciting travel spots outside your usual preferences.
Explore the top five destinations to travel to in 2018. Discover these up-and-coming locations on your own, and ensure your booking now.
1. La Paz, Bolivia
While South America remains a staple for holiday goers, Bolivia is emerging as a favored global destination. Skip scaling Machu Picchu in Peru–in 2018, La Paz, Bolivia will be the place to be.
Regarded as the “capital of cool” by seasoned travelers such as The Points Guy, La Paz holds the title of the highest capital city globally. You have the opportunity to discover the city and catch glimpses of the rainforest from a sky tram, flying over the terrain beneath. Featuring fresh gourmet dining locations and trendy places like a hotel constructed entirely of salt, this Bolivian city offers numerous sights to witness for the first time.
2. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
In 2017, Cambodia emerged as a premier global travel destination and it looks set to reclaim its status in 2018. Journey to this distant nation and immerse yourself in a completely different culture at a reduced cost. Offering great affordability and superb value for money, Cambodia represents an ideal spot for indulgent trips without the hefty price tag.
Explore the nation's capital, Phnom Penh, where you'll find several of Cambodia's latest hotels. Boasting more serene beaches compared to Thailand and Vietnam, enjoy peaceful waterside relaxation and city bus tours for vibrant evening entertainment. From river excursions to ancient sites and opulent accommodations, everything is accessible in Cambodia.
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii consistently ranks as a top tropical getaway each year. In 2018, reaching the island of Oahu will be simpler than it has ever been. Thanks to the introduction of budget carrier Southwest's inaugural flights to Honolulu, travelers will not have to shell out $600 or more for a return flight from the continental United States.
Venture to Honolulu to explore a dynamic city teeming with an energetic day and night scene. The city's coastline is dotted with an array of resorts, hotels, and beach clubs, allowing you to relax on the beach by day and indulge in top-tier restaurants by night. Interested in visiting more places in Hawaii? Island hopping is both simple and economical, whether you choose a brief airplane trip or a boat journey.
4. Valletta, Malta
You may already know about the scenic islands and shimmering waters of Greece. As of 2018, Greece has become passé: the in-the-know tourists are now flocking to Malta. This compact island in the Mediterranean is gaining global recognition for its outstanding beauty and is a fantastic destination to explore.
Valletta, the nation's capital, has been declared Europe’s Capital of Culture for 2018, with UNESCO endorsing it as this year's top holiday destination. Each month is filled with cultural activities, including various festivals and celebrations, and the vibrancy extends beyond these events. Malta boasts numerous archaeological treasures to discover and offers some of the best scuba diving locations in Europe. For those seeking stunning beaches and a rich, new cultural experience, Valletta is your ideal destination.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
Desire to stay within the US but looking for an exceptional holiday? Make your way to New Orleans in Louisiana and embark on an unparalleled journey in 2018. The legendary city of Mardi Gras commemorates its tricentennial this year, with numerous special events scheduled.
The metropolis once written off as a lost cause post-Hurricane Katrina is now vibrant and full of life. Noteworthy happenings such as the Tall Ships of America event and the celebrations organized by the Historic New Orleans Collection, coupled with notable urban renovations like the French Quarter bike path, allow for a fresh perspective of New Orleans. Everything in New Orleans feels rejuvenated, making it an essential destination to explore once more.
Book Your 2018 Travel Today
Prepared to plunge into one of these amazing places–or perhaps several? This is the perfect moment to reserve your plane tickets, accommodations, and excursions in these leading vacation spots for 2018.
Anticipating a surge in popularity for these holiday destinations, securing your bookings immediately is advisable for optimal success. Delay until summer, and you might find these places completely booked. Procrastination only leads to higher travel expenses. Start comparing your alternatives and decide soon. Investigate these thrilling urban areas to determine which attractions you wish to visit most. Thorough research enables you to craft the ideal vacation for 2018.