If world travel is on your family’s radar for 2019 you certainly won’t have a shortage of fantastic places to choose. Check out the following list of must-see destinations that could make your vacation planning a little easier.
While Italy might seem like an old standard when it comes to family travel, there is good reason. Home of the Colosseum, the canals of Venice and the ruins of Pompeii (just to name a few), there is a seemingly endless supply of sites to see. Add in beautiful scenery at every turn, amazing food and wine waiting at every stop and it’s no wonder Italy topped the list of United States Tour Operations Association’s places to travel in 2019.
Vietnam
Once a war-torn and poverty-ravaged country, Vietnam has become a tourist haven. Take a ride on a traditional Vietnamese junk boat and explore the country’s intricate waterways, or travel inland to see ornate temples and dense jungles. Enjoy the local cuisine in a bustling capital of Hanoi, or get to know the rich cultural heritage through one of the many small fishing or farming villages. While you can invest in a luxury vacation like a river cruise or beach resort, you’ll find your dollars stretch quite far, making it a great place to give the family an affordable and exotic vacation.
The tiny mountain nation of Bhutan is nestled in the Himalayas of Southern Asia between India and China. It’s one of the least-populated countries in the world and has been a latecomer to the world travel industry, making for a unique experience for visitors. Throngs of tourists are not a common sight in this peaceful nation, but there is still plenty to see and do. Explore the quiet capital of Thimphu and shop for local handicrafts or venture into the beautiful countryside to visit the traditional monasteries and temples to experience the country’s unadulterated heritage and culture.
Festival in Bhutan © Samrat35 | Dreamstime.com
While Portugal has become an extremely popular travel destination, the Azores, a small archipelago of volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, has steadily come into its own. The nine islands that make up this chain proudly boast stunning landscapes of lush green mountains, sprawling valleys and the jewel-toned waters of the Atlantic. The islands are not only bursting with outdoor adventure like incredible hiking trails, but they are also ideal for whale watching, bathing in hot springs or wine tasting at local vineyards. The islands are steeped in local culture and hospitality, making for an exciting adventure every member of the family can enjoy.
The small nation of Iceland delivers big on adventure. This off-the-beaten-path destination is one of the best places in the world to view the wonders of nature. The landscape is rugged with towering mountains and beautiful valleys and whether you are looking to experience the miracle of the northern lights from a farm house in the Icelandic countryside or explore the mighty fjords and glaciers, Iceland’s unique landscape will captivate the entire family.
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