As 2019 has just started, it’s time to set new travel goals for the new year! My travels are inspired by posts from a combination of social medias such as Instagram, Pinterest, and more. So here are my top 19 places that you NEED to visit in 2019 for your travel bucket list!
1. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Not many people outside of South East Asia have heard of this city, but it will surprise you! It’s full of traditional temples and Asian culture, and yet Kuala Lumpur is a huge modern city. The food is phenomenal, the nightlife amazing, and there’s no shortage of activities surrounding the city as well – so there’s definitely something here for everybody.
To learn more, read: 15 x Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur, 3-Day Guide
2. French Polynesia
This is the island paradise of your dreams. A few volcanic islands surrounded by crystal clear islands, here you can swim with manta rays, lounge of black sand beaches, sleep in overwater bungalows, snorkel through colorful coral reefs, explore hidden waterfalls, and hike through gorgeous rugged back country. Needless to say, its definitely a country worth a visit.
To learn more, read: Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Mo’orea – Everything You Need to Know!
3. Oman
Oman is far less known than its glitzy neighbor the UAE, but it is such an undiscovered gem! Where else can you swim in beautiful gorges, explore intricate mosques and castles, hike through the desert, and see mud villages?
To learn more, read: 7 Absolute Best Things to Do in Oman
4. Menton, France
Located on the South coast of France, this town is as picturesque as it gets. Lining the coast is a phenomenal beach and a row of spectacularly gorgeous and colorful houses! It’s no wonder the city used to be a getaway for European royals.
To learn more, read: 2 Glorious Weeks in Menton, South of France
5. Gili Islands, Indonesia
The three Gili Islands, despite being only a short boat ride away from Bali, are a world apart from the bustling island. On the Gilis, there are no cars, nor, in fact, any motorized vehicles at all. People get around on bikes and their own two feet. But don’t mistake this tranquility for monotony! Gili Trawangan is a backpacker’s party paradise, Gili Meno is a haven for honeymooners, and Gili Air is a stunning beach getaway.
To learn more, read: Gili Islands – The Ultimate Guide
6. Buenos Aires
What people don’t understand about Buenos Aires is its not a city of tourist attractions or a bucket list that you need to check off. It’s a city where merely wandering the streets is enough to experience the city. Enjoy the incredible architecture, or pop into a coffee shop for a quick caffeine boost. And wait for nighttime, when the city really comes alive.
To learn more, read: 10 Reasons Why Buenos Aires Should Be At the Top of Your Bucket List
7. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town really is a city of multitudes, with 11 official languages, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse cuisines. Perfect for active mountaineers, study abroad students, beach goers, foodies, cultural explorers, history buffs, and partiers, you’d be hard pressed to find something that Cape Town doesn’t offer!
To learn more, read: The Ultimate Cape Town Guide
8. Miami, FL, USA
There’s no better way to describe Miami than fun. It’s what happens when a hip, trendy American city meets tropical climate and beaches. Famed for its Cuban influence, lively nightlife, fresh seafood, beachfront hotels, colorful modern art, trendy decor, and beautiful beaches, there’s no reason not to go!
To learn more, read: The Everygirl’s Weekend City Guide to Miami, Florida
9. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam has a quaint sort of charm that just attracts those from all over. With their extremely accepting attitude towards, well, pretty much everything, Amsterdam has developed a reputation for debauchery. However, I found that Amsterdam also had a lot of cultural offerings, from the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum, and it is oh so cute!
To learn more, read: A Weekend Guide to Amsterdam
10. Taiwan
This island, while off the coast of China, could not be more different! Social media sites are not censored, the currency is different, and even their writing differs! That being said, it still offers many of the same of what China does – historic temples, delicious street food, and gorgeous architecture! Off the tourist path, be sure to book your visit here soon before it becomes mainstream!
To learn more, read: Mini Travel Guide: Taiwan
11. Lisbon, Portugal
Although when you think Portugal you may be thinking of the Algarve and the southern coast, the capital of Portugal has so much to offer. Despite being a major European city, the atmosphere feels cozy and small, and the city is surprisingly walkable! It’s also a very design-oriented city, with stunning cafes and view-points galore.
To learn more, read: The Ultimate 3 Day Itinerary for Lisbon
12. Sydney, Australia
I’ll be honest with you – my main reason for wanting to visit this city is for the brunch. Which may sound ridiculous considering Sydney is a good 16 hours away by flight, but Aussie’s take their brekkie seriously! The food is absolutely scrumptious, but also extremely healthy, but also extremely photogenic and trendy! There are plenty of other reasons to visit Sydney too, from amazing coastal scenic views, to the beach & surf culture, to phenomenal art, but really, it’s the overall culture that I am in love with.
To learn more, read: 13 Reasons to Visit Sydney, Australia Stat
13. Monaco
This tiny city-state bordering the Mediterranean is mainly known for luxury. If you’ve been dreaming of a luxe getaway then this is absolutely the place for you! The place is filled with yachts, casinos, and other luxury hotels, but if you’re not filthy rich, there’s still something for you! Monaco’s beaches are to die for, and there are plenty of photo spots for your Instagram!
To learn more, read: The 15 Best Things to Do in Monaco
14. Antarctica
I’ve always been fascinated by the 7th continent of the world, and 2019 is the year to make the trip! Currently, you can get to Antarctica by cruise ship from Ushuaia in Argentina, Punta Arenas in Chile, Bluff in New Zealand or Hobart in Australia. Although its mostly a trip for the outdoorsy type of traveler, I think a trip to the most remote place on earth is worth leaving your comfort zone! You can camp on the ice, see thousands of penguins, kayak through chunks of ice, scuba dive, explore volcanos, hike snowy mountains, and learn from Antarctic scientists!
To learn more, read: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Antarctica, the “White Continent”
15. Bermuda
You may expect Bermuda to be down south near Florida, but in reality, this British island is closer to North Carolina! As such, the climate is much cooler than you’d expect for an island. Nevertheless, Bermuda has all your island needs – gorgeous sprawling beaches and crystal clear waters – and a few unique qualities that attract so many – like pink sand beaches, a mix of British and American cultures, and adorable and quaint colonial style buildings.
To learn more, read: 7 Must-See Places in Bermuda
16. South Island, New Zealand
At this point, I hope New Zealand needs no introduction. Famed for its stunning natural landscapes, a road trip around the South Island means hitting iconic spots such as Wanaka, Fox Glacier, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, and Queenstown!
To learn more, read: The Ultimate New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary
17. Macau, China
Macau was unlike any other city I had ever been to. The Portuguese influence and Chinese influence together is simply fascinating. You’ll see Portuguese tiling mixed in with Chinese decor. Natives of the city often speak at least 4 languages – Cantonese, Portuguese, Mandarin, and English. This unique combination results in an experience unlike any other.
To learn more, read: The 10 Best Instagram Spots in Macau
18. Uzbekistan
You may have never heard of this country. But truth be told, Uzbekistan ought to be up there with destinations like Morocco and Turkey because it is such a gem! Being one of the major countries along the silk road, the travelers brought a surplus of culture with them. The result? Stunning architecture, whether it be in grand mosques or your average-sized hotels, you’ll be constantly surrounded by a myriad of colors, patterns, and mosaics.
To learn more, read: A Complete Guide to Traveling in Uzbekistan (And Why You Should Absolutely Do It!)
19. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is widely praised on Instagram for its trendy vibes, but after having visited in December, I can tell you firsthand that it is not overrated. Although very much geared towards trendy, vegan, eco-friendly, design-focused travelers, Tulum definitely provides for any type of traveler. Spend all day relaxing on the beach, or wander through the roads of Tulum beach browsing hip fashion boutiques, or explore underground cenotes, or go parasailing, or view unique wildlife, or gorge yourself with delicious Mexican food, it’s your choice!
To learn more, read: Tulum Eats: Where To Eat in Tulum
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What destinations are you traveling to in 2019? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
