Top 15 destinations for 2015

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It’s the beginning of a New Year and if you’re anything like us, you’re already dreaming of your next holiday. But where to next? To help plan your year in travel, our personal travel managers have compiled a list of their top 15 destinations for 2015.

1. Taiwan, China has been touted as a hot spot for travellers in the New Year boasting a unique blend of Dutch, Spanish and Chinese traditions following periods of rule by each country. This small island is steeped in history yet still maintains its high-tech reputation, while the capital, Taipei, is also a well-known foodie’s paradise.
2. Mornington Peninsula, Victoria features in National Geographic’s Top Ten list for 2015, mainly thanks to Victoria’s burgeoning reputation as Australia’s culinary centre. Paddock-to-plate restaurants and award-winning regional wineries are in abundance with its natural beauty also making it an eco-tourism mecca.
3. Hyderabad, India is a culture vulture’s Nirvana, with its literary heritage, opulent palaces and historic sites a must to visit in 2015. It’s understood the south-eastern Indian city was home to one of the richest men in the world, Mir Osman Ali Khan, the last ruling aristocrat of Hyderabad, and has one the country’s most aromatic biryani dishes featuring Arabic, Turkish and Mughlai influences.
4. Lisbon, Portugal is less crowded and offers better value than neighbouring Spain. This small country features old-world architecture, scenic landscapes, and a number of World Heritage Sites. Portugal is also making waves on the surfing scene with its long coastline and pristine beaches proving popular amongst surfers of all abilities.
5. Boracay Island, Philippines is a popular yet affordable alternative to Bora Bora. Just over 7km long, the island is easy to navigate by rented bicycle or motorbike and has several stunning beaches; Yapak Beach known for its beautiful white sand, White Beach great for watching a spectacular sunset and secluded Balinghai Beach perfect for couples and honeymooners.
6. Atacama Desert, Chile was gripped by the 2010 mine collapse with these heroic events turned into a Hollywood film called “The 33”. It’s also home to the country’s largest astronomical project with astronomer-led stargazing tours leaving nightly from the village of San Pedro de Atacama.
7. Ireland, with many Australian traditions originating from Ireland, Aussies have long been drawn to visiting the Emerald Isle. From its rugged terrain, rolling hills and Wild Atlantic coastline, to its lively culture, hearty cuisine and Guinness, Ireland offers something for almost anyone.
8. Myanmar (Burma) is a nation made up of over 100 ethnic groups that were previously cut off from the rest of the world. Step back in time and enjoy experiences like drifting down the Ayeyarwady River by old river steamer or trek through pine forests meeting gentle, yet inquisitive locals.
9. Montenegro borders east and west Europe, and as it gears up to join the Eurozone, now is the time for holiday-makers to explore this untouched oasis before large-scale tourism development occurs. With mountain ranges that jut up and down the coastline, ancient walled towns and Roman villas that cling to the rocks, Montenegro is a fascinating place for any curious traveller.
10. Isle of Pines, New Caledonia is a paradise in itself with azure lagoons, grottoes, canyons and pure white sand that can be easily reached within a few hours from Australia. Experience Melanesian tradition blended with French sophistication and immerse yourself in the great outdoors by taking a boat ride to Turtle Bay or snorkelling around Bush Island.
11. Muscat, Oman is not to be overshone by its thriving Middle Eastern neighbours of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Rich in authenticity, culture and traditions, this safe city has stayed true to its Arabic roots as featured in its architecture, most notably the magnificent Royal Opera House, with an array of Arabian adventures to be had in the city’s surrounding sandy deserts.
12. Namibia, Africa will celebrate its 25^th anniversary since its independence. From the Fish River Canyon and the wildlife utopia of Etosha National Park, Namibia possesses some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes and adventurous activities in Africa, much of which has remained a top secret until now.
13. Gallipoli, Turkey 2015 marks the Centenary of the ANZAC soldiers landing at Gallipoli during World War I, with thousands of Australians expected to make the trip to commemorate this major milestone in our history. In addition to visiting major sites like Lone Pine Cemetery and Anzac Cove, Australians are invited to also explore ancient regions of the Dardanelles, Troy, Cappadocia and Ephesus.
14. Washington DC, USA is the political and historical beacon of America featuring some of the world’s best museums and monuments, as well as a thriving food scene. This year marks the 150^th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination with several major artefacts that were once archived, soon to be displayed.
15. Arctic, Norway can attribute much of its recent hype to the movie Frozen with families eager to uncover the country’s spectacular scenery such as fjords, northern lights and the midnight sun, all of which inspired the setting of this film. Its wild landscapes are matched by its sumptuous Scandinavian cuisine and fresh seafood.

Talk to your local, personal travel manager to plan your next trip http://www.travelmanagers.com.au/ptm-search/

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