With summer approaching it really is time to start thinking about holidays. Is 2016 the year you'll start ticking off your bucket list? Here are the best places to travel in 2016 as long as you're ready for an adventure..
1. AUSTRALIA
There’s nothing quite like Australia. As the 6th largest country in the world, if you’re craving a relaxing and beachy holiday – this is the perfect getaway for you.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Stunning beaches, unique landmarks, hot locals and delicious brunches.
WHEN TO GO: All year round. Sunshine all year round.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Explore Whitehaven beach in Queensland.
- Go snorkeling in the Great barrier reef – the world’s largest coral reef.
- Delve into the great outback and experience Uluru in the Northern Territory.
- Climb the harbour bridge in Sydney and go for a dip at iconic Bondi beach.
- Take a selfie with a Quokka or Koala.
2. USA
New York, Florida, Vegas, and everything in between and more. Don’t let the strong dollar in the US deter you from visiting this land of opportunity. It really is worth seeing with your very own eyes.
WHY WE LOVE IT: World class national parks, surreal landscapes, BIG everything and legendary road trips.
WHEN TO GO: Summer (June – September).
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- A visit to the Yellowstone national park.
- Get amongst nature and explore the Yosemite national park.
- Watch the sunset over the Grand Canyon or take a helicopter ride to see it’s vast horizons.
- Soak up the hippie atmosphere in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco.
- Hit the town in New Orleans by visiting one of many jazz clubs.
3. JAPAN
Japan has topped the list for many years and continues to draw in travellers from all over the world. From the bustling city of Tokyo, culture in Kyoto and the history of Hiroshima, this country really does have it all.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Unique, futuristic, fun, and quirky. A mixture of traditional modern meets ancient traditions.
WHEN TO GO: April is considered the best time to visit Japan.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Cherry blossom festival in March.
- Hokkaido in January to experience the world-class snow in the North of the country.
- Visit the crazy Robot restaurant in Tokyo.
- Experience the fastest bullet trains in the world, Shinkansen.
- Eat fresh sushi at the world’s largest Tsukiji fish market.
4. CANADA
Experience everything that Canada and The Rockies has to offer.
WHY WE LOVE IT: World-class adventure activities in the great outdoors, beautiful mountains and scenery, breathtaking lakes.
WHEN TO GO: Spring, Summer or Fall.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Visit a world class rodeo a.k.a the Calgary stampede.
- Walk, or cycle around Stanley park’s seawall in Vancouver city boasting the beautiful English bay.
- Explore some of the best lakes in Canada; Lake Louise and Lake Moraine in Banff.
- Take a trip up to Whistler during winter to ski at Blackcomb or Whistler mountain.
- Eat all kinds of poutine from street food vendors.
5. PERU
Peru is diverse in its own right with breathtaking scenery and mountains of adventure. With the 2016 Olympics looming in Brazil, why not detour to Peru on your visit.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Unbelievable culture, ancient cities and the ultimate adventure for all.
WHEN TO GO: Anytime from May – September.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Hike up the Inca trail or take a scenic train ride and see the Machu Picchu for the first time.
- Drink a pisco sour and eat a traditional Cuy Chactado (short for guinea pig) if you dare..
- Paddle through the Amazon river into a jungle lodge.
- Visit the ancient city of Cusco and hit up a local market to pick up beautiful handicraft and textiles.
- Explore the Sacred Valley in Peru’s andean highlands that stretches over 60km’s.
6. CROATIA
Croatia is a relaxing country with plenty of sights and sun. From the walled cities of Dubrovnik, the fun island of Hvar and Split – there’s a reason Croatia is a must visit.
WHY WE LOVE IT: The swimming, sailing and coastal towns.
WHEN TO GO: July – August (Peak Europe summer season), June or September for a more relaxing visit.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Visit and explore a UNESCO world heritage site and the largest national park in Croatia – Plitvice lakes.
- Travel to Dubrovnik, the old town encircled with huge stone walls from the 16th century. Hit up Buza cliff bar to witness a magical sunset.
- Sail Croatia across some of the finest towns and islands it has to offer. Soak up the sun and swim in the sea.
- Check out Hvar, one of the most popular islands in Croatia
- Hit up a renowned music festival in Croatia. From Ultra, to Soundwave.
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7. MEXICO
Viva Mexico! Rich in cultural history and diverse geography – there are plenty of pristine beaches, jungles and World Heritage sites to see and do. Immerse yourself in adventure activities, delicious food and a nightlife like no other!
WHY WE LOVE IT: Ancient pyramids, stunning beaches and secret cenotes.
WHEN TO GO: All year round is recommended except November is the best time to go.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Relax and swim in Cancun’s crystal clear waters.
- Jump off the secret cenote (clear sink-holes with towering alamo trees stretching down) in Puerto Vallarta.
- Climb the impressive pyramids and imagine how this was once central America’s greatest city. Learn about the Teotihuacanos beliefs and rites as you walk around the site and see the Sun and Moon Temples.
- Taste the local cuisine by heading to the Coyoacan Markets – the buzzing food stalls are perfect for trying authentic Mexican food, like a torta (Mexican sandwich), enchiladas and tacos.
8. NEW ZEALAND
Kia Ora! Exploring New Zealand‘s landscapes, both in the North and South island, tops the list for many. With plenty of outdoor activities, sport, adventure, food and wine – you’ll be spoiled for choice.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Breathtaking and natural scenery, world class snowfields, glaciers and the #1 destination for adventure travel.
WHEN TO GO: Winter (May – July).
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Conquer your fears and bungee jump for the first time at the original Nevis – if you dare jump 134 metres!
- Head to Searle lane, one of the best bars in Queenstown.
- Cruise down the Milford Sound, one of the 8th wonders of the World that was carved out by glaciers during the ice ages.
- Visit home of Middle Earth from Lord Of The Rings and check out Hobbiton.
- Explore Wanaka in winter and learn to ski or snowboard at world class fields of Cardrona and Treble Cross.
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9. BRAZIL
Brazil and specifically Rio is one to put on your radar for 2016. With the Olympics underway, this is guaranteed to be a favourite amongst travellers so it’s important to book ahead and be ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Charming cities, extraordinary landscapes, wild jungles and perfect for smaller group adventures.
WHEN TO GO: Low season (May – September).
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Hike up the Corcovado mountain and witness the majestic views sprawled across Rio and of course – Christ the redeemer.
- Jump on a cruise and float through the Amazon river.
- Be a part of the world’s biggest party parade at the one and only Rio Carnivale
- Indulge in world-famous Brazillan Churrasco and sample delicious grilled meats from cuts of beef, lamb, pork, chicken etc.
- Get a sense of Brazillian culture by visiting a local market. São Paulo’s Mercado Municipal is particularly fascinating.
10. ITALY
Italy‘s got the whole package. From the colourful coastal city of Cinque Terre, to the always incredible ancient city of Rome, the leaning tower of Pisa and the floating city of Venice, the good life in Italy is where it’s at.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Authentic and delicious cuisine, ancient culture, plenty of sights and history.
WHEN TO GO: April – July (however it can get pretty hot from July – August)
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Get lost in Venice, ride a gondola and visit Basilica di San Marco.
- Roam around Rome and hit up the classical must see’s – The Colosseum, the Forum and Palatine Hill.
- Escape to the seaside by visiting the Amalfi coast of Italy. This 50 km stretch of coastline includes Positano, and goes further down to Sorrento. Indulge in delicious world-famous mozzarella cheese and wine.
- Florence is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and perfect for art lovers. Check out the Duomo (an iconic cathedral), the statue of David, and stroll across the river Arno.
- Do a day trip to the smallest country in the world – the Vatican city.
11. ICELAND
Iceland is one-of-a-kind, boasting a climate like no other and spectacular scenery to match.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Magnetically cool, unique sights, landscapes and a chance to see the Northern lights.
WHEN TO GO: Iceland weather is pretty unpredictable but we recommend heading over in winter from the months of September and October.
TOP 5 EXPERIENCES:
- Complete the Golden circle, 300 km’s of incredible landmarks and waterfalls.
- Head over in winter for a chance to see the Northern lights.
- Take a dip in the blue lagoon, Iceland’s top attraction and easily one of the best spa experiences in the world.
- Visit world-class (and weirdly unique) museums like the The Icelandic Phallological Museum.
- Dive in the Silfra, one of the top dive sites in the world as it’s considered to have the clearest water on earth. The crack you can dive into is the only place you can dive in between two continents; North America and Eurasian.
From quick breaks to epic journeys, Contiki trips cover the world from all angles for 18 to 35 year old travellers. It’s about making every moment count, that’s what Contiki does best!
Drop what you're doing and start packing! For more information, check out www.contiki.com, contact your local Travel Agent or contact 1800 98 98 98.
