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A Step-By-Step Guide to Choosing a Travel Destination
Are you looking to travel in 2019? A successful trip starts with a destination that fits you just right. Choosing a travel destination is not going to be easy. You probably want to travel everywhere. From the gorgeous beaches in Hawaii to the Colosseum in Rome or the volatile geysers of Yellowstone in the USA, you have your choice of beautiful destinations.
But if your wishlist is as big as ours, you probably need help deciding on an appropriate destination. But honestly, what do you mean by a proper destination? We decided to put together some pointers to help you fix your destination.
Fix Your Budget
Decide the Perfect Duration for Your Trip
What Kind of Weather Do You Like?
Who’s Your Companion?
11 Destination Trips to Have the Time of Your Life
The world is filled with stunning destinations that take your breath away. It may be across the world or just at your doorstep. Whatever your timeframe or budget is, you can find something that suits you.
1. Hawaii, the USA
From sandy beaches to snow covered mountains and dense jungles, Hawaii has everything. Hawaii is a group of islands that is America’s equivalent to a tropical paradise. The island is much preferred among surfers for its world-class waves.
If you are someone who loves to experience the culture, your first stop should be Honolulu where you can find a blend of Asian, American and Hawaiian culture. The food there is to die for, so is the authentic Hawaiian music and dance. Waikiki features the best of the resorts complete with white sandy beaches, water parks and what not. They also entertain kids and have activities for them when adults enjoy their vacation. While you are there, don't forget to visit the Pearl Harbour in Oahu.
Your tour to Hawaii is not complete without a trip to Maalaea for a spot of snorkeling or diving. Though the snorkeling trips are the biggest draw, you can also enjoy whale watching and surfing at some of those barrel waves.
The peak season is June to August with it being the perfect time for family travel. Instead of travelling during the off-season, which is late spring (April-June) to fall (September-December). But if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, the islands would be less crowded with awesome springs and fall bargains during the off-season, that is, from April to June and from September to December.
2. Agra, India
Can you call yourself a world traveller without visiting Agra and paying homage to the Taj Mahal? Agra is a relatively small tourist spot in North India compared to most other tourist destinations. Irrespective of its size, Agra is rich in cultural heritage and has many world-class monuments.
If you are visiting Agra, it is likely that you are excited to visit Taj Mahal, the monument built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz in 1648. The beautiful white monument looming large against the sunset is a sight to see. Agra is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of which is the Agra Fort located by the River Yamuna. The other heritage site is the Fatehpur Sikri which acted as the Mughal capital in the 16th century. Agra also has some fantastic shopping spots at the local markets, particularly the Sadar Bazaar.
The best time to visit Agra is fall and winter (November through February). While the tourist spots will be crowded and expensive, you will avoid the incessant rains and the sultry, hot summer which will make your endeavour seem more tiresome.
3. Gobi Desert, Mongolia
While a trip to the desert may not be everyone’s cup of tea, for a globe-trotting traveller, it's a must-see. You are going to spend most of your time travelling between sites, so if you are looking for a relaxing trip, skip this.
It is not much fun until you see the incredible caves, cliffs, and dunes. The arduous travel doesn't seem like much. If you are one to share the love for rugged landscapes and cliffs, Yolyn Am and Bayanzag are your places to visit. The history of the site is reflected in the two ruined monasteries Bari Lam Khiid and Khutagt Lam Khiid. They were home to more than a thousand monks in the 18th and 19th centuries. While you are at it, take some time out to hunt for some petroglyphs at the Gurvan Saikhan National Park.
You’d have to choose your time carefully when you visit the Gobi desert. The best time is the summer months from June and August since the weather is warm and dry.
4. Armenia
If there’s a country that makes you wonder how it stayed hidden this long, it’s Armenia. A fascinating country with a rich and exciting history, Armenia has not yet joined the must-travel destinations and hence is inexpensive with fewer tourists around the year.
Start your trip with the Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan where you can understand more about the country and their history. Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, enjoys a good nightlife with western style bars and clubs. Rent a car and drive out to Tatev which is particularly known for the longest cable cart in the world leading to the Tatev Monastery. The drive takes you through a desert-like landscape that is interesting all the same. It is not long before you reach the mountain pass after which the scene brims with life.
If you are looking to get some exercise in, check out Dilijan, a small town nestled between dense forests and hills. There is also a zip line which you can use to reach the Haghartsin Monastery. If you have time, there are a few other monasteries like Noravank, Geghard and Khor Virap which are likely to interest you.
Spring (May to June) and fall (September to October) are the best times to visit Yerevan, but if you are looking to visit higher altitudes, you might want to consider visiting in summer (June to September).
5. Porto, Portugal
Are you looking to spend a relaxing weekend, taking in the sun with some fantastic food and wine? Porto, the second largest city in Portugal with its amazing culture and stunning architecture is your ideal choice. If the name seems familiar, you definitely have had some of their world-famous port wine.
Porto is much more than its port wine. Their architecture is stunning and is similar to the ones you’d enjoy in Europe. Start your day at the Sé Catedral from where you can get a 360° view of the town. Continue to the Torres dos Clerigos, a Baroque Bell Tower which is the iconic symbol of Porto. Visit the Riberia, a traditional neighbourhood that lies by the river Douro to get a feel of the town and the local lifestyle. Bookshops have become a novelty but not in Porto where the historic bookshop Livraria Lello & Irmão exists. The architecture of the building itself is a sight to behold.
March through to October are the best times to visit Porto. But you might want to avoid July and August since the tourists descend on the idyllic town then and the prices are sure to get inflated. Also, look out for the San Joao, the massive street party that happens on June 23rd.
6. Yellowstone, USA
The next one we have you is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. The unspoiled beauty complete with colourful pools surrounding the hot springs, grassy meadows and the geysers spouting hot steam makes the park extraordinary.
Unless you plan on an extended vacation, you might not even traverse half of what Yellowstone has to offer. Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in Yellowstone Park and is quite renowned for its eruptions that are around 130 feet high. If you are looking to fit a hike in your trip, take the trail to the Observation Point for an uninterrupted view of the Upper Geyser Basin. Be sure to carve a day or two at the Yellowstone Lake and Mammoth Hot Springs. If you are a wildlife aficionado, save some time for the lesser known trails along the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Lewis River Channel, and Dogs Head Loop.
Yellowstone is quite busy during the school holidays (June - September). But the best time to visit is April - May and September and November. Lesser crowds make for a more relaxed visit, and calmer atmosphere granted you can handle when the temperature falls during the night.
7. Rome, Italy
Rome is famous for being surrounded by the world’s smallest country; Vatican City, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. From the unique architecture to being the centre of European fashion, Rome has stamped its presence firmly among the most desired travel destinations.
Rome, the city of seven hills, dates back to approximately 100 BC and has left us quite a lot of historic gems like Pantheon, Nero, Trajan, to name a few. The history buffs out there are sure to have a gala with the artworks housed at the Vatican Museums. While there, you might also like to visit St. Peter's Basilica. If you manage to climb all 551 steps to the dome, you can enjoy a new view of Rome in all its glory.
Another must-see in your itinerary should be the Trevi Fountain. Don’t forget to throw a stone over your shoulder to guarantee a visit to Rome again. Also, take time out to visit the many chapels namely, Sistine Chapel, Church of San Luigi Dei Francesi, Santa Maria Della Vittoria and Basilica di San Clemente.
Though the best time to visit Rome might be from May to September, the city would be bursting in its seams with tourists and the prices would be inflated. You might want to plan your trip around October to April. The temperatures would be lower, and most of the crowd would have dissipated.
8. Tahiti, French Polynesia
Magical sunsets, blue lagoons, many beaches, waves lapping idly and above all the French cuisine; what more can you expect out of a tropical paradise! Tahiti has a very laid back culture, and you can find the island truly welcoming to tourists.
You may want to visit Tahiti in the rainy season to visit Fautaua Waterfalls. Adventurers are sure to love the hike through the Fautaua Valley with steep slopes and scenic views. While the island is famous for its black beaches, the La Plage de Maui differs in the fact that it is a white beach. The nearby lagoon and its clear waters are a definite draw among tourists. Papenoo Beach doesn't see much tourist action, but it is famous among surfers. And again if you are a keen surfer, Tahiti is your paradise. You might want to hit the following beaches: Maraa, Paparā, Papenoo Rivermouth, Taapuna, and Rangiroa. And the best for the last is Vairao which has the best waves Tahiti has to offer.
The best time to visit Tahiti would be from May to October. The remainder of the year would be unbearably hot and humid, which is not the ideal weather for a vacation. But if you are intent on surfing, plan your vacation accordingly. Before you leave, don't forget to stock up on local spices; the island's vanilla beans are among the best on the planet!
9. The Cayman Islands
A Caribbean getaway seems to be the preferred vacation among travellers who prefer quiet, respite, and adventurers alike. The most famous among them all is the Cayman Islands. Choose one among those many resorts or maybe backpack through the island; whatever you choose, you won't be disappointed!
If you are looking for a relaxing swim and working on your tan sipping on some margaritas, your stop would be the Seven Mile Beach. If you're up for some snorkeling or diving, take time out to visit Stingray City, Bloody Bay Marine Park, Captain Keith Tibbetts Wreck and Kittiwake Shipwreck for some amazing marine sights. Nature lovers and adventurers can have their fill of fun at Mastic Trail, Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto. Make sure to pay a visit to the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands for a quick history of the island and their culture.
November through to April are the peak months and also the dry months on the Cayman Islands. Hence, the prices would be high and teeming with tourists. However, if you are looking for an inexpensive option, you can go for March to June period, when the islands enjoy a bit of a rainy season.
10. Cancun, Mexico
The abundance of beaches and the relaxed atmosphere overshadows the cultural importance of the Caribbean paradise, Cancun. While the history buffs have their time exploring the Mayan Ruins, those looking for some peace can cool themselves in any one of the powdery sand beaches. In short, Cancun has something for everyone.
Being a Caribbean destination, Cancun doesn't lack in beaches either. The most famous of them all are, Playa Tortugas, Playa Delfines, Playa Marlin, and Torre Escenica. Cancun is also known for its night scene, though it might be completely different to what you are accustomed to. Coco Bongo Cancun that happens at Boulevard Kukulcan is the one you need to go to. It is a visual treat with everything from conga lines to live bands and acrobats. History buffs can take a day out and visit the ancient Mayan ruins namely the El Rey Ruins and the famous Chichén Itzá.
The only possible time to visit Cancun is from December through to April though it is the peak tourist season. mid-March to mid-April is when the spring breakers descend the beach paradise, and you do not want to get caught in the midst. Though prices go down in spring and summer, Cancun summers can be quite hard on travellers.
11. Queenstown, New Zealand
A holiday to Queenstown is every adventurer's dream. Queenstown is a resort town built along Lake Wakatipu. Be it an amateur or a professional thrill seeker, Queenstown has something new and adventurous for you.
If Queenstown is in your itinerary, brace yourself, let yourself go and enjoy some of the many adventures the town has for you starting with Bungee Jumping. There are quite a lot of bungee sites, namely Kawarau Bridge, The Ledge and The Nevis. That’s just not it!. You also have water rafting, mountain biking, paragliding, and skydiving. If you are travelling with family and kids, take time out to relax and enjoy the Kiwi Birdlife Park. Experienced hikers can try their hand at the Ben Lomond Track for a bit of a challenge. Not to be left behind, Queenstown also has ski and snowboard trails at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.
If you are planning for any of the adventures listed above, you might want to consider visiting Queenstown during Summers (December to February). Skiers may want to stay updated on the ski conditions before travelling.
Tourist Etiquette - Be a Good Tourist!
The idea of a vacation appeals to everyone. What makes the experience quite rewarding and adds the cherry on top? Immersing yourself in the culture of the destination! It also helps you avoid being rude unknowingly and maybe new friendships.
It’s imperative that you know some basic travel etiquette and follow them wherever you visit. We've jotted down some of the elemental travel etiquettes you should know and follow.
Research Thoroughly about the Place You're Visiting
Every country has its own unique culture and customs. Understanding their traditions and following them helps you avoid blunders, which might seem trivial but rude or worse, may even overstep their boundaries. Learn how to conduct yourself. Also, it helps to do a bit of homework about the places you are visiting.
Learn the Basics of Their Language
It always does help if you learn the basics of the conversation in the language of the country you are visiting. It is very likely that the country you are visiting is accustomed to English but gaining some knowledge on the conversational basics endears you to the locals. It need not be much, just a “Hello”, “Please”, “Good Bye”, “Thank You” and “Good Day” are good enough.
Stick to the Rules
Just because you are on vacation doesn't mean you need to start flouting the law. Be mindful of the rules of the country you are visiting. Remember that there is a reason for all the rules. It might be a safety risk or even health risk, or you might be endangering someone. If in doubt, follow the locals or ask anyone around.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
It is so tempting to throw all caution to the wind during a vacation. But you need to be mindful of your surroundings and act accordingly. Mind your manners, especially in places of religious importance. The most important of all is selfies. Avoid taking selfies in hostile environments.
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Try the Local Delicacies
Whichever place you decide to visit, they will have a lot of their local cuisine to offer. Get out there in the local markets and try everything you can for you may never know if you'd ever get to have the experience again! Don't just stay confined to your hotel room and try out anything and everything unique and experience-full. Happy travels!