Here’s Your 2015 Travel Bucket List

It is time to make your travel resolutions for 2015. Have you give them a thought? Here we have selected a handful of places that are not always found at the top of people’s travel lists but have started to become more popular in recent times. These places have been mentioned in our conversations and the Hayo team has decided to create a Travel Bucket List with the top places that we are keen to discover in the new year!

Check them out and let us know if you have been to any of these destination picks or have your own list to share with us!

 

Dominica

An island nation in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea. Due to the lack of direct flights and easy access, it hasn’t become a popular destination yet, but this island is already starting to top the lists of the best less-traveled and unknown destinations in the Caribbean. It is also one of the safest. With beautiful beaches and clear waters, Dominica is also a magnificent destination for scuba divers. Its tropical weather makes it enjoyable almost year-round, but you might want to avoid visiting by the end of summer due to possible hurricanes. Photo: Matthias Ripp.

Bhutan

Officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, it is one of the most mysterious countries to travel to in Asia. Sandwiched between China and India, Bhutan is another place that is not the easiest to get to. It has recently generated some hype among travelers that like to discover new places before they become trendy, but there are some rules to follow before stepping into the country. These include organising a visa and tour guide to be with you while visiting. You need to spend at least $250 usd a day, including accommodation, and be well informed of the places you’ll be visiting. Once you manage the logistics, Bhutan is an undiscovered gem with a slower pace compared to other Asian countries and where you still can see the strong local culture and religion. Photo: Göran Höglund.

Hvar

A Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea which is located in the Dalmatian coast and is the queen of all islands surrounding it. Because of its mild weather and easy access, it has attracted many travellers from all over the world thanks to its beautiful waters, the pebble stoned streets and architecture, the strong mediterranean culture and, of course, the nightlife. Nowadays it is not considered undiscovered, but due to the separation with the mainland, it’s still not considered a common place to vacation. Croatia is becoming a favourite summer spot and soon Hvar will be at the top of every travellers list. Go before it becomes Phuket! Photo: Mario Fajt.

Madagascar

The island of Nosy Be located off the northwest coast of Madagascar is a popular destination for sailors and travelers who don’t mind going a little bit off the beaten track. Some security warnings have been issued in the past, but this island attracts thousands of tourists a year, which makes it a safe destination. Many sailing companies have chosen this island as a home base to explore the beautiful waters of this region. The best way to get around is by contacting a local tourism company or arriving with friends that have been there multiple times. Photo: Wikipedia. 

Colombia

This is one of our favorite destinations. Colombia has so many things to see, experience and eat that a week there will not even be enough. Located in the northwest of South America, Colombia has been subject to stereotypes and false information regarding safety. As a South American country, Colombia still has some political and economical issues, but a good traveler will know how to navigate around it to enjoy all the other beauties it has to offer. Cities like Cartagena, Bogota, Medellín and Santa Marta are amongst the most popular ones to visit, but others like Cali, San Agustin, Pasto and the amazon region, are slowly entering the list. Cartagena (photo) is a colonial city full of history, food, colors, music and beaches. The perfect choice if one only has a few days to spare. Photo: Luz Adriana Villa.

Arizona

A state in the southwestern region of the United States and commonly known for cities like Phoenix or Tucson. Recently Sedona has been conquering the hearts of travellers who are seeking a more spiritual and introspective journey.  The myth is that the land is sacred and the spirits are very much present in this land, but many people who have experienced this place can agree that this is not a myth but an actual fact. It’s a small town with resorts and nice hotels, but mostly it is filled with magnificent views of the red rocks canyons, one of the major attractions of the area. Not too far from it you can find the Antelope Canyon (pictured) that offers not only stunning views, but also a place to recharge your energy with beautiful shapes and colours. Photo: Jackie Kai Ellis.

Alaska

Alaska is a US state which has long been known for its national parks, bears and glaciers. It hasn’t always been a popular destination due to its often remote locations but in recent times, enthusiastic travellers have attained a new found interest in its isolation and roads less travelled. Bordered by Canada, Alaska has more ocean coastline than all of the other US states combined. Living off the land is common among residents and its wealth of natural resources is a haven for adventurous travellers. A visit to Alaska includes feasting your eyes on an endless sea of mountains, glaciers and crevasses as well as coming face to face with an array of wild animals. And if that wasn’t enough to tempt you, the Northern Lights is a spectacular phenomena that will stay with you long after you have returned back home. Photo: Kool Kats Photography 

Iceland

Iceland is small to the eye on a map but once arrived you’re left stunned by the otherworldly beauty of towering mountain peaks, massive ice glaciers and stunning fjords. Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. Although this city is small, around 20 000 urban inhabitants, the energy and culture of the Icelandic people are unlike any other. Do as icelanders do and spend your days relaxing at the infamous and abundant outdoor Geothermal Pools that are volcanically heated and date back to the Viking times. For the adventurous, cross the vast monolithic glaciers by snowmobile or ski’s, explore the glacier caves and lava fields, try out ice fishing or whale watching or stand in awe of the many mystical waterfalls. If you’ve had enough of outdoor activities, soak up the rich culture of the city by browsing Scandinavian artisan designer shops, sample unique icelandic delicacies, ie: fermented shark, and spend your evenings soaking up the colourful nightlife. Whichever experience you’re looking for, Iceland offers a unique experience unlike any other country. Photo: Moyan Brenn 

South Africa 

Located at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa offers varying landscapes to fulfill any travellers dream getaway from desert, beach, mountains to vast winelands and national parks. There is more to this destination than simply safari’s, if you are a wino this is the place for you. The Cape Winelands are comparable to Sonoma and Napa, with vast stretches of land harvesting quality grapes. Spend your days wine tasting and soaking in the picturesque valleys. Challenge your mind by trying to learn the 11 official languages spoken that are drawn from the indigenous population while exploring the cosmopolitan cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg. The multi cultural blend of Afrikaners, English and Indians has created a diverse array of cuisine, culture and music that has something to offer every traveler. Photo: Damien Du Toit. 

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is located in southeastern California in the Mojave Desert. Declared a U.S. National Park in 1994, this hot and dry destination draws hikers, campers and explorers to this geologic wonder from all over the world. The Mojave Desert inhabits many unique species of plants and animals, the Yucca brevifolia in particular is the most popular species of the Joshua Tree and populates the desert adding a spooky effect with its strangely shaped and spiky branches. Spend your days in the National Park rock climbing the massive boulders that were formed more than 100 million years ago or go looking for the diverse desert wildlife that camouflage themselves to the dusty colours of the dry, flatlands such as: lizards, snakes, jack-rabbits, coyotes and many species of birds. The vast, flat and elevated surface space of Joshua Tree create one of the best locations for star gazing; find a hammock and be amazed by the millions of twinkling lights that surround you. Photo: Candice Violet Savage