Where to Travel Next? Discover our 5 Hottest Destinations in 2016
While the world is open to travelers and adventurers, each year has its hot spots. If you feel like you’ve been everywhere and seen everything, consider these five travel destinations to make your 2016 a complete year of sightseeing across the globe.
OK, we would have added our hometown, Santa Barbara, in a heartbeat in the list, but you all know it is a little paradise and a hot destination, right? Beach sunsets and activities , outdoors sports like paragliding, hiking, sailing etc., amazing restaurants, wine tasting and pure beauty. So let’s think outside of California 😉
Iceland
As cold-weather adventure travel grows in popularity, more people are flocking to Iceland’s capital Reykjavik as a starting point for backpacking adventures across land, ice and sea. If you’re willing to put in the time, the gear (which also means money) and the willingness to just “go with it,” Iceland is full of natural wonders to be seen and experienced. Its native airline, WOW, offers cheap flights from JFK, making this one of the less expensive European vacations and an increasingly popular destination.
And speaking of gear, Iceland can have fickle weather, even in the summertime. Go in with good layers, eye protection for the glare off snow and ice, and the right footwear to tackle any terrain throughout the countryside.
Patagonia, Chile
Patagonia is so much more than the brand behind down jackets and ski gear. It’s one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world nestled in the heart of Chile, South America. As a country, Chile extends thousands of miles from north to south, so the Patagonia range varies greatly depending on where you are. Outdoors retailers like our REI sponsor trips to the area, where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views on the planet.
Greece
Greece has always been a beautiful country to explore, but its recent economic troubles have made the destination more affordable than ever. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, this is a country that mixes the very best of culture and natural beauty. Now is the best time to take advantage of this part of Europe and support the country’s tourism, which is catering to travelers more than it ever has in the past.
Havasupai Reservation, Arizona
While everyone is flocking to the south rim of the Grand Canyon, there’s a hidden gem just a few miles away that will blow your mind. Havasupai, home of the stunning Havasu falls, is a destination unlike any place on this planet. The bright blue waters over the red rocks and dirt make the contrast a sight you have to see to believe. If you’re willing to make the long hike down into the waters (and the more difficult hike back up), this is a spot that should be on your 2016 bucket list. Permits are by phone only and difficult to get, so plan early and call often to get yours.
Cuba
For more than 50 years, Cuba was closed to American travel from an embargo established during the Cold War. But that all ended last year when President Obama lifted the embargo and re-opened the U.S. Embassy in the country’s capital of Havana. Because Cuba was isolated for more than five decades, traveling there is like hopping in a time machine.
But there is a catch. Now that Cuba is open to American tourism, it will soon be overrun by American resorts and modernism. There’s just no avoiding it. So you should make the trip this year before Cuba loses its timeless essence of old restored cars and unique shops.
Have fun travelling and share your favorite spots with us!