Every New Year’s resolution involves three key ingredients — the commitment to better one’s self, the passion to try something new, and the inevitable promise to venture beyond one’s comfort zone — and no one act accomplishes those goals more than international travel. With 2019 on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and seek new ways to discover the vast, wide world, and in the process, make changes for the better. Here’s my list of our top 15 travel destinations which you should visit before you turn 50:
1. Dubai
As the United Arab Emirates continues to develop into one of the world’s fastest growing tourism destinations, Dubai stands out as the ultimate international getaway for the world’s rich and famous. Yet, travelers don’t have to be international superstars to visit this luxurious city. In fact, Dubai welcomed 5.8 million visitors in the first half of 2014 alone. And no wonder. How many hot desert locations can you name where you can enjoy the beach (we’re talking hot weather) in the morning and then, spend the afternoon skiing at an indoor resort attached to a fabulous designer mall? That’s not the only thrill travelers will discover in Dubai.
Try soaring to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, to check out a view. Or, how about a visit the Burj Al Arab, among the most luxurious and expensive hotels in the world, where a fleet of 25 Rolls-Royces stand at the ready in the courtyard to chauffer guests about. It’s that kind of place, but you have to see it to believe it.
2. Thailand
One of the best places to visit in international with friends, Thailand has all the ingredients required to make a vacation amazing! It’s no secret that Thailand hosts some breathtaking natural sights, both inland and at sea. The great range of geological formations all around the country offers visitors an astonishing number of places to visit during their holiday in the Land of Smiles. It’s no secret that Thailand hosts some breathtaking natural sights, both inland and at sea. The great range of geological formations all around the country offers visitors an astonishing number of places to visit during their holiday in the Land of Smiles.
3. Iceland
As more travelers seek authentic experiences which also reflect their worldviews, Iceland has emerged as a top travel destination. The Land of Fire and Ice showcases the world’s natural beauty at sites like the famous Strokkur geyser, the natural hot springs of the Blue Lagoon, and of course, the contemplative wonders of the Northern Lights, while Reykjavík, the nation’s capital, offers plenty of great restaurants, night spots and northern culture.
4. Cuba
Everyone’s talking about this island just 90 miles from Florida’s coast that has been the forbidden fruit of travel for Americans for more than 50 years.Friendly Planet Travel has been helping travelers visit Cuba legally for the past four years, allowing Americans to gain a deeper understanding of a culture that seems to have been frozen in time. Travelers meet local artists, street-smart entrepreneurs, and everyday Cubans where they live, work and play. For the true explorer, Cuba is one of the most amazing travel experiences possible, and to enjoy the island as it is right now, you better hurry before the country is forever changed by Western influences.
5. Greece
After years of a tourism downturn brought on by economic turmoil, visitors are finally returning in droves, ready and eager to experience the beauty, culture, and flavor of this Mediterranean paradise. While Athens is considered the crucible of Western civilization and definitely worth a visit, it’s the islands that lure visitors back again and again. These magnificent islands are every bit as gorgeous, romantic, laid back, and fun as any place you can find on earth. There’s Mykonos for romance, Santorini for breathtaking beaches, Crete for natural wonders making Greece one of the top dream places to visit in international.
6. Malaysia
A trip to Malaysia is like visiting two worlds at once. Peninsular Malaysia embraces Chinese and Indian influences resulting in richly spiritual, though thoroughly modern nation, while Malaysian Borneo — which is split from West Malaysia by the South China Sea — encompasses the country’s wilder side, with dense, mysterious jungles and ancient cultures living according to tradition. All of this, plus some of the absolute best cuisine on the planet, make international honeymoon packages to Malaysia much sought after today!
7. Vietnam
The South East Asian country boasts ample natural and cultural resources, and is well-connected to the Internet and to cell signals. Business travel has also increased, and the country’s affordability makes it a great place for budget-conscious travelers. The cuisine (think decadent pho and refreshing sinh to smoothies) is reason enough to visit Vietnam to Vietnam Honeymoon Tour Package from anywhere in India.
