Pack that case and jet off to what we reckon will be the hottest destinations in 2017; from the best beaches and scuba diving spots, to cultural meccas and outdoor adventures. Happy holidays!
Going on vacation is up there on our favourite things to do list, and though we love easy-breezy weekends in neighbouring Bali and Thailand, sometimes our wanderlust goes into overdrive and we crave something a little more exciting. Somewhere off the beaten track. Somewhere spiritual. Somewhere different. Somewhere far away from Singapore. Somewhere with no tourists (yet!). But it’s getting harder to find these travel gems no one else knows about, so we took it upon ourselves to draw up a list of places that we reckon are going to be the hottest spots in 2017. What’s more, if you’ve got a Citi Credit Card to pay for your next adventure, you’ll score awesome discounts on Emirates and Agoda to boot. Happy holidays!
Republic of Uzbekistan
Central Asia often gets overlooked as a holiday destination, though spare a thought for Uzbekistan, the cultural jewel in the crown of the ‘stans’. Thanks to its spellbinding architecture, tales of the Silk Road (the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean), and ancient cities filled with mosques and religious monuments, this is a country steeped in history. The locals are renowned for their hospitality, so expect a genuinely warm welcome.
Curacao
Admit it; you thought Curacao was merely a blue drink found in undesirable cocktails (Blue Hawaiian anyone? Pass!) But its namesake island is the Caribbean’s hottest kept secret. This Dutch-Caribbean island is famed for its lush coast, beautiful beaches, and UNESCO world heritage capital city of Central Willemstad. This is one island that marches to the beat of its own drum, and for a slice of the Caribbean that isn’t overly touristy; Curacao is the place to be.
Bhutan
A magical kingdom that you won’t find at Disney; this paradise in the heart of the Himalayas is shrouded in mystery and Buddhist zen. Awe-inspiring mountainscapes, verdant greenery, exotic wildlife, and the freshest air any of us will ever likely breathe make this number one on our bucket list. Though welcoming to tourists the fees you must pay to enter put many of; don’t let it deter you. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip you will never forget.
Guam
Yes. Really. Engrained in the minds of many as a US military base (which it still is in the north), venture beyond the populous Tumon Bay and we reckon you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the stunning beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, and local culture that permeates throughout the rest of the island. Granted it’s small (despite being the largest island in Micronesia), and American accents are common, but we reckon this is one pacific island that is on the up and worth a visit.
Mongolia
So remote. So vast. So unbelievably beautiful. If you love the great outdoors and adventure, Mongolia is totally your jam. Pack a bag, and travel your way round this epic landscape; we guarantee after a few days in this rugged, raw landscape you’ll feel as far away from ‘real’ life as possible.
Chile
The thin strip of land that snakes it’s way up the western coast of South America is often overshadowed by it’s Argentinian neighbour. But due its unique location, Chile offers a diverse landscape that is second to none. From colossal glaciers and volcanos, to the driest of dunes and lush green valleys, this is a rugged country that spits out surprises at every turn. And don’t even get us started on the delish wine… Chile, we salute you.
Belize
Though rough around the edges, Belize is a cultural melting pot, traveller friendly, and can scratch even the most adventurous itch. From diving in the stunning off-shore reefs, to hiking in tropical jungles, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins. Belize has got it all, but if you need further convincing, here’s three words for you: Great Blue Hole.
French Polynesia
Escape the hustly-bustly world with a trip to what is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth. So remote that only the intrepid will make the trip, once there you’ll be feeling very smug that you did. Turquoise lagoons that gently lap at white, black, and even pink (yes, really!) shores, combined with a luxuriously slow pace of life place this at the top of our lust list.
The Republic of Palau
Known as the ‘underwater Serengeti’, this is one for the divers; comprising around 200 tiny islands, this archipelago in the Western Pacific is all azure lagoons, volcanic islands, and dense green jungle. Expect to spend most of your time in (or on) the water exploring wrecks and colourful marine life.
South Africa
There aren’t many places that offer the adventure of a lifetime, but the southern tip of Africa boats wild landscapes, even wilder safaris, swathes of wine country, endless beaches, and the buzzy city vibes of Cape Town. Take. Us. There. Now.
Book your next holiday on Citi Credit Cards and enjoy great travel deals: including offers on Emirates and additional savings on bookings on Agoda. Plus, you can redeem a 20” limited edition luggage with Swarovski crystals (minimum SGD 2,000 spend on online travel merchants). Click here to find out full details on this promotion. Valid till 31 October 2016, T&Cs apply
This article is sponsored by Citibank Singapore Limited