What are Forbes’ 10 ‘Coolest Cities’ for 2018?
Forbes has unveiled its coolest cities to visit this year, and they’re not kidding around, these cities really are awesome.
In fact, if we weren’t so concerned about our own coolness we’d be packing up and travelling to them immediately.
To help them with the list, Forbes asked some of the industry’s most influential people for their opinions and guidance.
From Africa to Japan and everywhere in between, these are the ‘Coolest Cities’ for 2018 according to Forbes.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
“Many travelers fly into Addis Ababa and then head straight out,” says Tom Marchant, the cofounder and owner of Black Tomato.
“They’re missing out on all the vibrancy of this stunning African city.”
Home to more than 80 nationalities, it’s a cultural epicenter and gateway to an ancient world.
“Skipping out on the capital is akin to skipping out on the very fabric of Ethiopia.”
Nagasaki, Japan
Don George, GeoEx’s Japan expert, recommends this city for its “rich mix of history and culture.
In addition to having the poignant atomic bomb memorial, Nagasaki was one of two places where foreigners were allowed during Japan’s three-century isolationist period.
The city was the place where the West was introduced to Japan.”
Puebla, Mexico
Puebla, a gorgeous Spanish-colonial city located two hours southeast of Mexico City, is poised to become one of the country’s most vibrant destinations, says Indagarefounder Melissa Biggs Bradley.
The city is famous for its architecture—more than 365 churches in the city alone—superb food (this is the birthplace of mole) and exceptional pottery.
“Puebla’s history is also fascinating: It is the only city in Mexico that was founded specifically for the Spanish colonialists, in 1531.
“As a result, the city has a distinctly European feel, with grand boulevards, Parisian-style arcades, imposing monuments and street-side cafes, but all with Mexican flair.”
Malacca, Malaysia
“Proof that Malaysia is more than the powder-soft beaches of Langkawi and the lush tropical forests of Borneo, Malacca is Malaysia’s cultural beating heart,” says Marchant.
“Centuries of colonial influence made for a city with remarkable character, and a decade on from its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s developing a real buzz.”
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
GeoEx’s senior director for Asia, Tina Liadis, recommends this city as a centre for Javanese culture, traditional gamelan orchestras, classical Javanese dance, shadow puppet theatre, batik textiles.
“It’s a special administrative region and still has a sultan,” she notes, and there are sights related to the monarchy that can be visited, such as the kraton (sultan’s palace).
Arequipa, Peru
“Boasting Andean vistas and colonial splendor, Arequipa is a gem of a city that’s played a fundamental role in Peru’s gastronomic renaissance,” says Marchant.
“Classic spicy dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy red peppers), chupe de camarones (prawn chowder) and ocopa (boiled potato in a creamy, spicy sauce) all hail from here and are still best enjoyed in the city’s communal picantería restaurants.”
Cairo, Egypt
“Founded more than 4,000 years ago, Cairo is a fascinating city that offers a glimpse into the complexities of the modern Middle East, where a tug of war is being waged between modern and traditional Islam and the dichotomies of ancient and contemporary society play out,” says Biggs Bradley.
“And with tourist numbers low right now, travelers will have the important ancient sites to themselves.”
Brazzaville, Congo
Dubbed “The Paris of Africa,” Brazzaville is one of the safest cities in Africa, contends Marchant.
“With the city centered around a peaceful riverside embankment and framed by a backdrop of striking architecture, it’s easy to see the resemblance.”
And with a raft of trendy new eateries, it’s become much more than a stopover.
Medellin, Colombia
The city is quickly becoming the tech capital of South America.
“Trendy cafés, shops, breweries, artisan cooperatives and co-working spaces are popping up, and millennials are drawn by its allure as the former narco headquarters,” says Jennine Cohen, GeoEx’s managing director for the Americas.
“It also happens to be Colombia’s cycling heart—this is, after all, where Nairo Quintana trained.”
Leon, Nicaragua
“Only an hour from the Managua airport, the colonial city of Leon is a gorgeous vantage to soak up the natural assets of the country,” says Marchant.
“More off the tourist trail than Granada, it offers a more authentic city experience.”
The best way to discover Leon is by foot, as much of its charm lies in the narrow colonial streets, art galleries, museums, restaurants and architecture.
Check out the full article here.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
-
Latest comments
Latest News
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Globally-renowned chefs gather for Vivid Food 2024
As a human, we agree that food is a fundamental part of the human experience. Some might say the most fundamental.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart and Seoul
If you notice an uptick in Kiwis making their way through the Mona, you know why.
European Waterways targets multi-generational families with ‘floating villa’ deal
The jury is still out on whether spending a week on a 'floating villa' with family is a hell or a paradise.
Luxury Escapes launches ‘sail away’ sale
Rest assured, you'll be getting your 'sails' and 'sales' mixed up for the rest of the day.
Rex-owned National Jet Express adds weekly charter between Brisbane and Orange
This is for mining and civil contractors, so please, put your holiday attire away.
Let the games begin. Viking introduces eye-watering benefits for the industry’s top 10 advisors
Did someone say 'trip to Venice'? Hold my coat, this one is far too good to miss!
Best friends or frenemies? What is the REAL relationship between sales and marketing?
We can all stop fighting over the corner office because our mothers were right - we are all important in our own way.
The Walshe Group Announces Two Key Appointments
What we really want to know is whether they got joint or separate welcome parties.
FAMIL: Agents explore the delights of Mauritius on 7-day tour
Go green with envy as you read this fabulous itinerary! Time to book that second honeymoon.
Hamad International recognised as world’s best airport at 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards
Hamad airport is so good it is almost considered a destination in itself. Ballina, up your game.
Saudi Arabia highlights tourism investment opportunities at global investment event
Now is the time to start looking at Saudi Arabia if you are not already. There's big things to come.
“Rampant” – Aussies warned as dengue fever cases spike in Bali
Worried about Bali belly? Now you have something else to worry about.
TTC Tour Brand reveals slew of deals across operators including Trafalgar and Contiki
Everybody loves a bargain and you could do lot a lot worse than check out these deals from TTC!
Fiji Airways partners with Porter Airlines in US growth bid
Any initiative that gets more people visiting the delights of Fiji is a good initiative.
Flight Centre launches CruiseHQ – a marketplace exclusively for agents
The cruise industry has surpassed pre-Covid levels so this isn't one to miss!
Feeling festive? Wendy Wu tours unwraps Christmas collection
Get the Christmas hols booked now and avoid spending it with that elderly relative with dubious political views.
OPINION: In a world of screens, we crave experience
If you get feelings of deep shame and regret when you see your screen time, don't worry - you're not alone.
Sun Princess: High-end dining and world class entertainment awaits
If you are a foodie and you are not currently on the Sun Princess, we really have to ask - what are you doing?
YouGov: 2 in 5 Aussies would pay more for a sustainable hotel
If you want to be REALLY sustainable you can go camping. You just might lose the will to live.
“Can planes swim?” – Planes become boats as Dubai Airport is savaged by severe storm
Unfortunately, "can planes swim?" is a real life question and not an opener to a really bad joke...
Explora journeys reveals bespoke outdoor furniture designed by Matteo Nunziati
This is making your plastic table and chairs look really bad now, isn't it?
Bangkok Airways targets growth with renewed Sabre deal
Two stories abut Sabre's growth in one week and its only Wednesday! Watchout world.
PR agency Example wins pitch for InterContinental Sydney
We also went in for the contract but they said that a 'Be Our Guest'- themed TikTok was unoriginal! The cheek.
Norwegian Cruise Line reveals culinary experience aboard Norwegian Aqua
Once again, this TW journalist REALLY regrets writing this before getting lunch.
Signature Queensland hosts luxury tourism event
Known for its tropical beaches and unique wildlife, Queensland also offers luxury.
Capella Sydney recognised in prestigious Travel + Leisure’s 2024 ‘it list’ of best new hotels
You know that 'it girl' at school who everyone wanted to hang out with? Capella is the hotel version of that.
Rex launches 72-hour fare sale with NO school holiday blackout so you can take your kids (if you want to)
Sadly, leaving your children at home whilst you go on holiday is generally frowned upon.
Adventure World offers chance to connect with “heart and soul” of the US
I mean who hasn't dreamed of a road trip around the US?! Go with Adventure World and you're less likely to get lost.
Fiji’s family-owned luxury resort Likuliku Lagoon launches its own app
We were relieved to find out that having a "concierge in your pocket" referred to an app on your phone.
Hawaii: The US’ laid-back front door for Australians
If you needed another sign that you should definitely head to Hawaii - this is it!
Sabre targets Asia Pacific growth with latest hire
Call the Avengers! Sabre continues its bid for world domination with latest hire.
Air New Zealand signs its largest EVER deal for sustainable aviation fuel
Air New Zealand makes huge step towards sustainable travel. We bet it recycles its rubbish properly too.
IHG Hotels & Resorts continues regional growth with Sunshine Coast Holiday Inn
This Holiday Inn looks considerably flashier than some of the ones we have stayed at in our time.
Budget carrier Scoot welcomes first of 9 E190-E2 aircrafts
Here at TW we would like to offer Embraer E190-E2 a warm welcome! It's not easy being the first of the fleet.
I loved Arequipa https://www.stridetravel.com/peru-tours.html, Peru. I went there a couple years ago during Peru’s Independence Day and I had an amazing time. For anyone who is going I would highly recommend visiting Mueso Santuarios Andinos which features “Juanita”, the famous mummy who was sacrificed in the 1500’s.