Joanna James
Sure, 2020 may not have been the best year for travel, but that doesn't mean there are no more opportunities to plan a getaway this year or even for 2021! With that in mind, here are some of the top holiday destinations worth heading to.
While Iceland may get the spotlight when it comes to places to see the Northern Lights, you can also look forward to stunning views of this magical phenomenon from Swedish Lapland; the best spot for this is the Abisko National Park. There's much more to do in this part of Sweden too; ride a dog sled pulled by huskies, discover the traditions of the indigenous Sami people, encounter and feed reindeer and enjoy the thrills of snowmobiling on lakes that are frozen!
There is plenty to see and do in Australia be it at popular holiday destinations along the west or east coasts or further up in the Northern Territory. Enjoy the beauty of the Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth, visit the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach in Sydney or enjoy art at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne. You can also so surfing in Queensland's Gold Coast, explore the Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory and discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Another diverse destination to plan a visit to in 2020 or 2021 is Thailand which has something for everyone. Featured on travel websites the likes of The Vacation Gateway, this Southeast Asian nation has a fascinating blend of modern development and rich culture. This can be experienced at places like its capital, Bangkok, home to sprawling malls and exotic nightlife as well as ancient temples and historical attractions like the Grand Palace. Island escapes await at Koh Samui, Phuket and Koh Phangan, the latter known for epic full moon parties, while the Ang Thong National Marine Park and Khao Yai National Park provide thrilling outdoor adventures.
Consistently included on lists of the best holiday destinations each year, the island of Sri Lanka may be relatively small in size, but it will surely spoil you for choice! The beaches on its south, west and east coasts are nothing short of sublime and offer thrilling water sports too. Those interested in Indiana Jones-style discoveries and head to historical attractions like the Sigiriya rock fortress and the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can also look forward to exploring mist-shrouded cities and villages in the heart of the mountains and spotting wildlife like leopards and elephants on exhilarating safaris.
Exciting escapades in the highlands await those venturing to this breathtakingly beautiful part of Scotland. Not to be missed is the chance to explore Cairngorms National Park; set amidst picturesque mountains, forests, lochs, rivers and villages, it is an ideal place for hiking, skiing and biking. Travellers can also take a Jacobite steam train ride over the famed Glenfinnan Viaduct, visit the Isle of Skye with its ethereal landscapes and immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Glencoe.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
