A slew of new destinations come recommended for travellers next year from Tajikistan to Namibia plus ultimate party playground Belgrade in Serbia, by the Lonely Planet travel guide.
Ideas include Spain’s “fun-loving city of Cadiz” and the Italian island Sardinia which has “far more to offer than just breathtaking beaches”.
There’s also Bristol in England, a “world of street art”, among the best places and experiences proposed for the year ahead.
European cities
“Explore the legendary nightlife” of Belgrade is the advice for travellers next year, with the Serbian capital nudging aside cities such as Berlin in Germany, famed in the past for its party scene.
“Cheap drinks, an uncomplicated atmosphere and locals who are passionate about nightlife make Belgrade the ultimate nightlife playground in Europe,” the guide says. “Few cities can match Belgrade’s night-time energy.”
Also in Europe, check out the Dutch city of Utrecht, a brief train ride from Amsterdam.
The city has a lot to offer: a medieval old town with canals, gabled houses like something out of a Vermeer painting and an abundance of bookshops, restaurants and museums.
Tips for foodies, hikers
For foodies, experiences include a cultural food tour in Old Dubai.
There’s also the option of the exciting gastronomic scene in Melbourne, Australia, or a culinary tour in Kerala in southern India.
Further options include hiking and wild camping in Tajikistan, tracking desert elephants in Namibia, and a river cruise on the Mekong in Vietnam.
Or consider the Japanese quarter of Liberdade in the Brazilian megacity of Sao Paulo.
And there’s Mexico City in Mexico, a mosaic of pre-colonial traditions, fairytale murals and delicacies on every corner.
These recommendations were not given in a particular order, says Lonely Planet, noting not ranking top cities, regions and countries is a sign of the times.
Today’s travel culture says meaning and encounters are more important than rankings – all destinations are given equal status, the guide says. – dpa
