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13 December, 2017

The strangest destinations for 2018

We’re all a bit sick of this year. In fact, talking about 2017 is about to be very last year.

So what does 2018 hold?

Rather than hitting up your local psychic to find out, Rough Guides has shared the top 10 destinations that will be on your client’s 2018 bucket list must-visits.

And, like the future itself, the list is somewhat surprising.

1. Newcastle, England

River Tyne, HDR image, Newcastle, UK

Skip the crowds in Manchester or Leeds and head up to Newcastle for a vibrant nightlife and an art and cultural scene that is all relatively budget-friendly.

2. Civil Rights Trail, USA

The civil rights movement in the United States was an important moment in the country’s history, and next year will be the 50th anniversary since the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

Embark on the civil rights trail that will take you through places including King’s birthplace, his first church posting and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

3. Malawi, Africa

Malawi is your client’s ultimate safari destination in 2018.

Three reserves, Majete, Liwonde and Nkhotakota promise the Big Five (leopard, lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo), majestic natural landscapes and a range of luxury and budget lodges.

4. Valletta, Malta

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village, Malta

Crowned European Capital of Culture in 2018, Valletta is a stunning historic UNESCO World Heritage destination, where clients can roam the labyrinth of laneways dotted with old churches, palazzos, and museums while enjoying the perfect Mediterranean climate.

5. Wales

Pack your backpack and best walking shoes and traverse the serene coastline cliffs and explore the old castles and rolling valley landscapes in Wales.

For the avid hiker, the Wales Coast Path is the only dedicated path that spans the whole of the coastline.

6. Cuba

Vintage classic american car in Havana, Cuba

The tightening travel restrictions to Cuba from Trump administration is good news for travellers where the authenticity of the culture thrives.

Sometimes regarded as the destination lost in time, clients can explore the traditional Cuban restaurants, museums, and the pristine sandy beaches.

7. Russia

Nice Russian Town On River

Next year the FIFA World Cup is coming to eleven Russian cities, and the country is getting ready for a jam-packed summer.

If your clients like the big vibrant cities suggest the capital of Moscow and the cultural hub of St Petersberg.

If they want to escape to the lesser-known areas then clients should head to the Tatar capital of Kazan.

8. New Orleans, USA

And the music flow

Next year is the city’s tricentennial, so visitors can expect parades, festivals, and cultural events.

Jump on a bike and explore the different precincts including the French Quarter, Bywater, Faubourg Marigny and a quirky strip of Magazine Street lined with jazz bars and shops.

9. Chile

Guanaco in Chilean Patagonia

From snowy mountains to stunning national parks and lakes, Chile is the ultimate destination for the adventure traveller.

If clients travel in January they will be there in time for the 25th anniversary of Santiago a MIl, the third largest festival of dance and theatre in South America.

10. Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone has had a turbulent history with civil war but now has turned into a cultural and adventurous destination.

It has rich wildlife and tropical beaches, as well as historic cities where travellers can learn about the country’s slave trade.

Compare this list with Lonely Planet’s top destinations for 2018 HERE, and check out the top travel trends for 2018 HERE.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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