2015 is our 15th anniversary, and we’re celebrating with a trip around the world! If you’re looking for new places to see in the new year, check out our list of what our travel experts believe to be the 15 hottest destinations of 2015.
#1 Cuba
The U.S. is loosening travel restrictions to Cuba, and we couldn’t be more excited. Cuba travel isn’t new for us—we’ve been licensed to travel to the embargoed country for years—but we’re looking forward to the opportunity to bring even more travelers to Cuba in 2015. It’s an exciting time for Cuban travel, but once Congress opens the floodgates, U.S. corporations will jump at the chance to expand and Cuban culture could drastically change. That’s why we suggest visiting as soon as you can—so you can capture the culture of the island country before it opens its first Starbucks.
#2 Croatia
If you haven’t been to Croatia yet, we highly recommend it. This beautiful Mediterranean country has it all: pristine beaches, fresh seafood, medieval ruins, a water-powered organ—even an Ancient Roman palace. The best kept secret of European travelers for ages, Croatia has recently become a hot spot for American travelers due to the popularity of the HBO series Game of Thrones, which has many film locations in the sunny, coastal country.
#3 Iceland
Due to its arctic name, Iceland has gotten a bit of a bad rap over the years. Thanks, Vikings. But in truth, Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world…and we’ve seen the world. Iceland boasts geysers, mineral hot springs, waterfalls, extraterrestrial-looking mountains and craters, its own special breed of horse, and a unique culture that only could have resulted in Björk.
#4 Nicaragua
If you thought Costa Rica was great, you’ll love Nicaragua. Formerly known for political conflicts that ended decades ago, Nicaragua has evolved into a peaceful, traveler-friendly paradise. Full of wildlife, lush vegetation and volcanoes, Nicaragua offers a wealth of outdoor activities: you can zipline across the rainforest canopy, kayak around the scenic Lake Nicaragua Isletas, or learn about the unique and sustainable agricultural techniques of a permaculture farm. You can even learn sign language at the Café de las Sonrisas, the first coffee shop in the Americas run entirely by deaf people.
#5 India
There’s more to India than Bollywood and the Taj Mahal. See the breathtaking “Pink City” of Jaipur, the abandoned capital of the Mughals in Agra, and the seat of the Indian government in New Delhi, all the while experiencing the traditions of each region of India. You can even go on a safari in Ranthambore National Park, keeping an eye out for the native Bengal tiger.
#6 Argentina
We think Argentina has been severely underrated, when in fact, it has it all: Neogothic cathedrals, horseback riding adventures, romantic European-style streets, gauchos, waterfalls, river cruises. With a rich history of Spanish colonization and subsequent revolutions combined with picturesque natural and architectural scenery, the country is beautiful and fascinating in every way. Not to mention, it inspired Evita…which should probably count for something.
#7 Turkey
Turkey’s a little off the beaten path as a European tourist destination, but it’s so close to Italy and Greece that it’s the perfect addition to add some spice to an otherwise standard Euro-trip. Visit the beautiful city of Istanbul and see the famous Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, which has been an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral, an Imperial mosque, and a museum throughout the years. Then travel across the country to see the ancient ruins of Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus and more.
#8 Cambodia
If you’re dreaming of warmer weather, Cambodia is the perfect answer. Ignored as a travel destination for years because of political unrest, U.S. travelers are just now starting to take advantage of the natural and architectural wealth of Cambodia. Visit Angkor Wat, a Hindu-turned-Buddhist temple that holds the record as the largest religious monument in the world and, if you get a chance, tack on visits to Vietnam and Thailand for a well-rounded Southeast Asian experience.
#9 Panama
With the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal last year, Panama has seen increased popularity in tourism recently. But there’s much more to see in the Latin American country than just the canal; Panama offers as many luxurious beaches, national parks, hiking excursions, and opportunities for zoological exploration as Nicaragua or Costa Rica.
#10 South Africa
Lions and tigers and…elephants, oh my. If you’re looking to explore wildlife, South Africa is the place for you. We’re always excited about South African travel, but 2015 should be a particularly special year to visit. Not only will you have the opportunity to see the incredible array of wildlife in its natural habitat, but you’ll also be able to witness Nelson Mandela’s legacy as a number of memorials are being erected in honor of South Africa’s beloved former president.
#11 Puerto Rico
Need some sunshine? Leave your passport at home for this island getaway. An unincorporated territory of the U.S., Puerto Rico offers a combination of historical architecture, white sand beaches, and bilingual culture that makes it perfect for an educational travel adventure. And since it technically falls under the umbrella of domestic travel, it also happens to be one of our least expensive destinations for Spanish immersion.
#12 Morocco
Positioned in the northwest corner of Africa just 40 miles from the tip of Spain, Morocco is a great addition to any European tour. Home to one of the most diverse amalgamations of culture in the world, Morocco offers a number of unique experiences. Find your way through streets full of souks, discover the up-and-coming city of Fes, meet with desert-dwelling Bedouins, and even go on a camel ride across the desert when you visit Morocco.
#13 New Orleans
2015 marks the tenth year since Hurricane Katrina, and New Orleans is finally starting to return to its former glory. Experience the staples of Cajun food, like gumbo, boudin and beignets. Listen to the sounds of New Orleans: jazz, blues, brass band. Then round out the Cajun experience with visits to the French Quarter, a voodoo museum, Lafayette Cemetery, and the River Road African Museum.
#14 Tanzania
Immerse yourself in the heart of Africa with a visit to Tanzania. Located next to Kenya in East Africa, Tanzania still upholds a deeply rooted tribal culture. Visit Tanzania and meet the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic ethnic group known for its adherence to traditional tribal values, dress and farming practices.
#15 Peru
Peru has always been one of our favorites, but recently we’ve seen an increased popularity of Peru tours. We don’t think this is any surprise, but it might be a result of the extended visiting hours to Machu Picchu, or maybe the growing foodie culture in Lima. Either way, you’ll get a healthy dose of unforgettable scenery, delicious food and ancient history when you explore the “Land of the Incas” in Peru.