Been There? Done That? New Vacation Ideas for 2016

By Lori Visser, Travel Specialist

[As recently published in The Rockford Squire]

So you’ve done the all-inclusive, taken a Caribbean cruise, maybe even a Mediterranean and Alaskan Cruise as well? Toured through Europe? What is a new and exciting destination you wonder? Here are some places that are hot travel destinations around the globe:

Africa – African Safaris are on track for all types of travelers, solo, couples and extended family. There are a number of countries that offer the safari experience, including unique travel options aboard luxury trains, river cruises and of course safari vehicles. South Africa is a destination that can accommodate all your desires, from a safari to tours through the winelands. In the Cape Town region you can see penguins in their native habitat, hang out at the beach and for the truly adventurous, go cage diving with Great White Sharks. Cape Town is a “must see” to add to your bucket list.

Antarctica – There are a number of respected travel partners that offer bucket list trips to Antarctica. These continue to be very popular.

Asia – The booming river cruise market in Europe has allowed the river cruise industry to expand into new markets. The most popular new market are Asian rivers which include the Mekong through Vietnam and Cambodia, the Ayeyarwady through Myanmar (Burma) and brand new along the Ganges through India.

Australia - Australia and New Zealand continue to be an attractive travel market. There are so many choices on how to visit this region – from cruises along the coast lines, guided tours, self-drive…you can even rent a motorhome and hit the road on your own. Other areas that are popular are the Cook Islands, which can also be added to your travels. In French Polynesia, which includes Tahiti & Bora Bora, there are specialty cruises that focus on diving and periodically host Oceanographer, Jean-Michel Cousteau. Although similar to Hawaii, French Polynesia sees much fewer tourists each year, a good choice to get away from the crowds.

Europe – Instead of the traditional tour, how about a biking or hiking tour? Tour companies accommodate all levels of walkers and bikers. Not into that much cardio? Extend your reach by taking a smaller, no-frills cruise along the coast of Norway – all the way up to the Arctic Circle if you prefer. Visits to Iceland and Greenland are becoming more popular as well. You can even incorporate a short stay in Iceland with your flight to Europe. Although a Mediterranean cruise is quite well known, there are also cruises that visit the northern areas of Sweden; Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia and more. Why not become your own captain with the boat rental in your choice of a variety of inland waterways throughout Europe and the UK? Do you think of Europe as a summer destination? If you like to ski, you should consider an all-inclusive ski trip to the French or Italian Alps. It’s so James Bond! Flights are less expensive in winter as well. With such great exchange rates between the US Dollar and Euro, it is a great time to travel in Europe. Customized tours are easily planned with your travel agent and can accommodate many interests such as a cooking class, Villa rental in Tuscany, rental of a Ferrari to drive through Monaco and much more.

North-America – Being a resident of North America no doubt you have had many adventures here. Some ideas you may not have considered is a river cruise in a paddle wheeler along the Mississippi, Ohio or Columbia Rivers. These often have themes such as Blues, Bourbon, Big Band and more. Viking River Cruises have taken notice of this and have plans to expand their market to the Mississippi in late 2017. Hawaii is a common destination, but don’t forget about the US Virgin Islands as a closer alternative. Amtrak has many routes that will take you off the beaten path as you travel through mountain vistas and with a sleeper car you enjoy free meals along the way, prepared in the kitchen and served in the dining car on-board. Have a hankering for train travel the way it used to be? Travel from Chicago to New Orleans in a re-furbished Pullman car. A visit to the Canadian Rockies should be on your short list. They are pristine.

South America – South America is an up and coming destination and with the Olympics coming to Brazil, it will become even more popular. Watch the Tango in Argentina, visit Machu Picchu in Peru, sail down the Amazon, visit the beaches of eco-leader Uruguay, there are more options than can be listed here. South America is a good combination with other iconic destinations such as Easter Island, the Galapagos, or the Panama Canal. As with most locations, there are cruises available to offer a taste of many areas – always a good idea when you just can’t decide. Another option is a guided tour. Why not visit with a local guide, excited and proud to show off their little piece of paradise? Leave your transportation and luggage worries to the experts and then you can concentrate on what you are there for – a relaxing and educational experience!

So, we have covered the seven continents and bringing them all together are the oceans, also traveled daily by cruise ships large and small, within island groups you are even able to charter sail or motor boats on your own or with a small crew.

However you choose to travel in 2016, you will be able to add your own touch to any of these ideas to make them your own. Wishing you safe and happy travels in the New Year!

About the author – Lori Visser is a Travel Specialist with Cruise Planners. She can be reached locally (616) 263-1777 or (800) 583-3177 [email protected] www.GlobeSpinnerTravel.com