New year, new travel goals! Musement takes a look at 12 desinations you should visit in 2019.
Now that the holidays are over and 2019 is here, it’s time to start thinking about where to travel this year. Here are 12 ideas.
1. Milan
2019 is a big year for Milan as 2 May marks the quincentennial of Leonardo da Vinci’s death. Therefore, a year-long celebration is in order. The Renaissance genius is practically synonymous with Milan so it’s only fitting that the city will host several events and exhibits in his honor. Now, we might be biased because we’re headquartered here, but we think you never need a reason to visit Milan. However, if you’re looking for one, paying tribute to the ultimate Renaissance man should suffice.
2. Normandy
2019 also marks a milestone anniversary for an occasion that changed the course of history: the 75th anniversary of D-Day, which takes place on 6 June. If you haven’t been to Normandy to see the D-Day beaches, this is the year to do so. The summer is chock full of activities to commemorate the battle which includes military parades, firework displays, airdrops, giant picnics, concerts, and military camp re-enactments. Plus, Normandy itself is exquisite. So, make a trip out of it and visit iconic sites like Monet’s House, Mont Saint-Michel, and more.
3. Oman
This spectacular Middle East destination has something to suit every type of traveler: pellucid white sand beaches, ethereal mountain landscapes, perfume makers, desert safaris and more, all coupled with traditional Bedouin charm of the various towns and cities. Don’t limit your visit to Muscat…there’s much to see beyond the Omani capital. If you’ve been thinking about visiting here, 2019 is as good a year as any.
4. Lisbon
From the old-school trams to the narrow cobbled streets to the elaborate Azulejo tiles, there’s just something so incredibly thrilling about the hilly Portuguese capital. See the traditional sites of Lisbon like the Castelo de São Jorge, an iconic castle, and the Torre de Belém, a UNESCO-protected fortress. In addition, the city boasts a lively art scene. The traditional local fare coupled with creative cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs will answer all food-minded travelers’ prayers. Plus, the beach is just a 30-minute drive from the city!
5. Krakow
A city believed to have been founded after the defeat of a dragon, it should come as no surprise that Krakow looks like a storybook illustration, a fantasy that has come to life. Here, you can watch flames spew from the mouth of the fire-breathing Wawel Dragon statue every five minutes….or on-demand via SMS. Rynek Glówny, Europe’s largest Medieval square, will surely take your breath away, and history buffs can explore historical World War II sites like Oskar Schindler’s Factory or venture out to Auschwitz. Plus, there’s the draw of eating a bagel in the city where these beloved boiled-then-baked breads are believed to have originated.
6. Madrid
The extraordinary Spanish capital, Madrid is abuzz with good vibes and always has something happening. To start…the food! The cuisine lives up to Spain’s reputation as a world food capital thanks to flavorful fare that keeps gourmand travelers satiated. Shop on Calle Argensola, take a tapas crawl in the historic La Latina neighborhood, stroll around the Parque del Buen Retiro, and experience the nightlife of Las Letras. Plus, when you’re here, you get to check two icons off your art bucket list: Velázquez’s Las Meninas at the Prado Museum and Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofia.
7. Matera
This spectacular city in the Southern Italian region of Basilicata was named a 2019 European Capital of Culture for a good reason. Its fascinating history goes back 30,000 years. Matera is characterized by two sassi, UNESCO-protected districts of the city characterized by cave dwellings. In fact, many locals reside in homes that their ancestors inhabited nine thousand years ago while others have been sold and turned into hotels. In addition, there’s plenty to see and do here to get your culture fix such as the frescoed churches from the middle ages also built into stone.
8. Thessaloniki
We love Athens, but we’re also quite fond of this northern Greek city on the Aegean. Greece’s second largest city, Thessaloniki is brimming with culture thanks to the traces of its Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rulings. In fact, the entire UNESCO-protected city has been named an Open-Air Museum of Early Christian and Byzantine Art. See the Ano Poli, the charming historic old town, known as the Upper Town because of its hilltop location which boasts spectacular seaside views. Stroll the Modiano market, visit the particular Yeni Camii mosque, and see the train cemetery where many a locomotive has been put to rest. From the city, take a day trip to the fabled Mount Olympus and relaxing Pozar Thermal Baths. Snack on some bougatsa, phyllo pastry with savory fillings and have dinner on the waterfront.
9. Bangkok
Bangkok never gets old. Enjoy the world-famous cuisine, watch the sunset at Wat Arun, tour Wat Pra Kaew, the temple of the Emerald Buddha and Grand Palace and stop by Jim Thompson’s House, the home of American spy and founder of Thailand’s silk industry. The street food is enough to keep you satiated, but bon vivants will want to land a coveted table at Gaggan Annand’s acclaimed namesake restaurant, one of the best in the world. And of course, it should go without saying that even though the Thai capital has plenty to offer, a visit only scratches at Thailand’s surface. So allow time to travel north for some wildlife and adventure or go island hopping to catch some tropical rays on some of the world’s most paradisiacal beaches…don’t forget to pack sunscreen!
10. Melbourne
Melbourne is booming! This modern metropolis exemplifies the spirit of the land Down Under. Explore the colorful laneways, sip a cup of joe in one of the world’s most progressive coffee cities, sample Chinese fare in one of the world’s most exciting Chinatowns, visit the Skydeck on Eureka Tower’s 88th floor, and shop at Melbourne Central Shopping Centre. From here, you can embark on the iconic Great Ocean Road Drive or spend the day at Brighton Beach, home to the famous polychromatic beach boxes.
11. Grand Canyon
2019 is a milestone year for the Grand Canyon: its centennial as a National Park falls on 26 February. This spectacular 277-mile-long/18-mile-wide/1-mile-deep valley was carved by the Colorado River six million years ago and is undoubtedly a place that everyone should see once in their lifetime. Most people squeeze in a day trip from Las Vegas, which is great, but we suggest passing a few days there to partake in activities, hiking, and boating. Those not fond of sleeping in the Great Outdoors don’t have to pitch a tent at one of the campgrounds as there are plenty of accommodations available for those who prefer to sleep inside.
12. Jordan
Jordan is purely magnificent! In the capital of Amman, don’t miss Rainbow Street in the historic Jebel Ammama district. Wonder the backstreets to see some of the city’s oldest buildings, or head to Darat al Funun to admire some contemporary art. Don’t miss the legendary UNESCO-protected Petra, take a camel ride on Wadi Rum valley’s ancient trade routes, float in the Dead Sea, or relax on the shores of the Red Sea. Jordan is your oyster!