2018 is upon us guys. Whether you’re freaking out about where 2017 has gone or you’re excited for all that ‘New Year New Me’ stuff, travel should definitely be on the agenda. We’ve got the hot gossip on the top travel trends for 2018. Get inspired.
How many of these destinations are you planning on visiting in 2018?
1. New Zealand
The land of The Lord of The Rings, New Zealand‘s beauty is world-famous and for good reason. So it’s no wonder the country is already a trending destination for 2018.
But where to start? Queenstown offers skydiving, bungy jumping and lots of hiking ops. Our personal fave is the hike up to the Ben Lomond mountain summit. While it’s definitely a test of endurance, the views are oh so worth it.
A cruise through the mighty Milford Sound should also be on the New Zealand bucket list. Why? Well, for the towering Mitre Peak, waterfalls and seals colonies. Enough said.
But it’s not all about the South Island. The North Island also has its fair share of awesomeness. On the way to Lake Taupo, Huka Falls impresses with its thundering turquoise water. Auckland also has a lot going for it (despite what some Kiwis might say). Take a hike up Mount Eden, one of the city’s many volcanoes, for views over Auckland and a great sunset spot. Later, spend the night at the bars in Ponsonby.
Did we mention the North Island is also home to the Hobbiton Movie Set? Yep, we’re buying our ticket too.
2. Berlin, Germany
Firmly holding its name as one of the coolest cities in Europe, Berlin is topping the lists of travel trends for 2018.
So what’s so special about Berlin? Well, it has an underground street art culture to explore and so much history to get immersed in for starters. The remnants of the Berlin Wall are a must-see as well as Checkpoint Charlie, the Reichstag building and the Brandenburg Gate.
But there’s also plenty of quirky neighbourhoods to visit. Kreuzberg is a favourite with the hipsters and arty types. With its galleries, thrift shops, street art, street food and countless bars and hangouts, it’s no surprise that Kreuzberg is one the most exciting parts of Berlin.
Another favourite for locals and travellers alike is Tempelhofer Feld. Previously the site of Tempelhof airport, the area is now an expansive public park with walking, jogging and cycling tracks as well as loads of space to chill out. A tour of the abandoned terminal building is a must and gives a glimpse into the building’s Second World War and Cold War history.
How could we forget Berlin’s nightlife scene? Let’s just say, it’s famous for a reason.
3. America’s Southern States
Howdy partner, America’s Southern States are climbing up the ranks in the travel trends for 2018.
Let’s start with Texas. There’s Houston: Beyoncé’s hometown and the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Centre. Then there’s Austin: home to the University of Texas and a live music scene that’ll get any music junkie pumped.
Louisiana is gaining in popularity with travellers too and New Orleans just might have something to do with it. Sitting pretty on the Mississippi River, New Orleans has a nightlife to rival all nightlife with plenty of bars as well as jazz and blues clubs. To top it off, its food is drool-worthy. Packed with spicy and aromatic flavours, jambalaya, gumbo and muffuletta are just a few dishes that should be on everyone’s Southern States food list.
Plus, when Florida is this close, a cheeky trip to Miami never hurt nobody right?
4. Japan
Blending the traditional with the ultra-modern, Japan is so much more than sushi, Mount Fuji and skyscrapers.
For instance, Japan is super famous for its skiing and snow sports. With countless resorts dotted in Hakuba, Niseko and Rusutsu to name but a few, Japan is one of the world’s most exciting destinations for snow sports.
Japan is also home to the megacity of Tokyo. Sprawling out as far as the eye can see, Tokyo is huge. Like, really huge. From robot restaurants to Disneyland and Akihabara (aka a manga/anime/gamer’s paradise) to the Sensō-ji temple, Nezu Shrine and the city’s many parks and gardens, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Tokyo.
For those interested in history, Japan’s Hiroshima is a poignant and important part of the country’s story. Having been destroyed during World War II by an atomic bomb, travellers can learn about the event through artefacts and exhibitions at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Don’t leave out Kyoto from your list either; there are enough Buddhist temples, palaces and shrines to keep you exploring here for days on end.
5. Ireland
Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are becoming ever more popular with young travellers. And it’s pretty easy to see why.
Dublin is steeped in history and has an incredible literary legacy. If you’re a fan of your James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker or Oscar Wilde (to name but a few), a trip to Dublin won’t disappoint. With multiple buildings, tours and museums dedicated to the authors and to literature, bookworms are in for a real treat in the city. With endless cosy pubs to explore, grab your book, find a sofa and get a pint. Day sorted.
Talking about pints, Dublin is the home of Guinness. Visitors to Dublin can get a perfectly poured pint of the good stuff at the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar. Go at sunset for beaut views of the city.
But Ireland’s not just about the urban life. Nature is also its forte. A visit to the Giant’s Causeway is a must. It’s just 40,000 basalt stone columns left behind from volcanic eruptions some 60 million years ago, no biggie. There are also the stunning Cliffs of Moher. Like something out of a movie, these cliffs are Ireland’s answer to Australia’s Twelve Apostles. At 214 metres high, the Cliffs of Moher are pretty damn majestic.
Anyone for a trip to Ireland?
Have Topdeck’s travel trends for 2018 got you keen for a trip? Yeah, we thought so. Come take a look.
Want more inspo? Check out our Ultimate 49. It’s pretty mega.
