Exploring new countries is always a thrill, one that we’re willing to spend big bucks on, but what are the top travel destinations for 2015? This upcoming year will be a celebratory one for several nations featured on this list, but it will also be the right time to travel to some unknown destinations before they become plagued by tourists.
At the beginning of the year we published an article suggesting the top 8 destinations for 2014, which included several European countries, as well as some tropical escapes. This time, our list will take us down a more exotic and peculiar path as we highlight the best places to sight-see, explore animal species, and indulge in culinary pleasures. These are our top travel destinations for 2015 you won’t want to miss.
8. Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, an archipelago situated halfway between Norway and Iceland, is a popular travel destination amongst the scientific community due to its geographic location. However, it’s also the place to be if you want to catch a full-fledged solar eclipse, which is scheduled to occur on March 20, 2015. At that time, travelers will be able to enjoy a wide variety of special events related to the phenomenon, but the summer season between July and August is also recommended.
Keep reading for the seven top travel destinations for 2015.
7. Morocco
This year Lonely Planet also published their own top ten travel choices for 2015, and included Morocco under the best countries to explore, and I agree with them. Not only is this destination culturally rich, but its cities offer historical flair, with a friendly population and relatively low travel prices.
6. Sark, Channel Islands
Located off the coast of Normandy, Sark is one of the most remarkable places to travel to in 2015, as it will mark the 450th anniversary of feudalism on the land. Although the medieval form of governance was extinguished in 2008, the tiny population in Sark still lives (somewhat charmingly) far behind modern times, using horse-drawn carriages as transportation on the mostly unpaved roads (cars are actually banned from the island). The landscapes are also magnificent.
5. Atacama Desert, Chile
The peculiarity of this desert lies in its climate. While desert regions are known for their extended drought periods and extreme heat, Chile’s version offers snow and sometimes ice-cold temperatures. The result is a vast landscape full of geysers, salt flats and cacti.
4. Nicaragua
Once again, we agree with Lonely Planet’s mention of Nicaragua as one of the top countries to visit in 2015. Full of antique colonial architecture and many options for solo travelers, this destination is quickly becoming Central America’s most sought-after. Nicaragua is one of the best budget option for young explorers with a knack for culture and warm-hearted folks.
3. Philippines
Another top travel location this year is the Philippines. Surprisingly enough, when tourists visit Southeast Asia, this beautiful country is rarely a stopping point. But it definitely should be, not only because of its magnificent clear-water beaches, but also because of its volcano-like landscapes and various tribes. The ultimate paradise for scuba-divers.
2. Tunisia
Tunisia was off the travelers map for the last few years, due to the Jasmine Revolution of 2011. However, 2015 is set to be a comeback year for this country, which offers much more than just beach-side resorts. Carthage agglomerates truly breath-taking sights, with most of the French colonial grid still noticeable in the city’s layout. The young culture and music scene has also been exploding in recent years, attracting a new type of tourist that’s focused on discovering the country’s native flair.
1. Medellín, Colombia
Once a hub for drug-lords and terrorists, Medellín dedicated the last 20 years to reforming its entire infrastructure and is now one of the most attractive travel destinations in Colombia. A mix between modern architecture, museums, and open plazas and gardens, this city definitely has a new quality of life to offer its tourists and locals alike. A must-see highlight is the city’s España library, which is mounted on a hill overlooking the shanties. You’ll also find it easy to move around safely, as the government invested in building the MetroCable and added police supervision to avoid conflicts.
