A new year brings endless possibilities, it’s a chance to try something new, experience different cultures and follow your unique journey. Why not make taking a holiday to somewhere unforgettable your New Year’s resolution? To inspire you, we have teamed up with the travel specialists Wendy Wu tours and put together a list of must-visit destinations for 2018. On the shortlist is Brazil, the vibrant tropical paradise of Latin America; the beautiful and intense Argentina; and the incredible Vietnam, a country deep in history with impressive UNESCO awarded scenery.
Brazil: A diverse land of staggering natural beauty and samba rhythms
With endless golden beaches, rainforest, tasty food and a carnival atmosphere Brazil is a truly amazing country where life flows slowly and the jaw-dropping landscape makes you want to stay forever in the ‘Land of Happiness’.
Now Zika free and with numerous new hotel openings in the pipeline, there has never been a better time to visit Brazil. A vast country that offers sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities that offer an irresistible mix of historical architecture, dramatic landscapes and wildlife-rich Pantanal and Amazon rainforests.
A fabulous itinerary showcasing many of Brazil’s highlights would start in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. You can experience diverse activities in this coastal city such as spending time exploring the iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer, taking the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, which offers glorious panoramic views across the city or heading to the Parque Nacional da Tijuca to sample the Brazilian jungle first hand. When the sightseeing stops you can take the chance to relax on the bustling and iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and watching an amazing sunset or sunrise from the famous Arporador, right next to Copacabana beach.
When the sun goes down Rio’s nightlife comes alive with bars and restaurants, well known by ‘Botecos’, so drink a beer, sit back and listen to the beat of Brazilian samba music.
On the borders of Brazil and Argentina lies the Iguacu falls, considered to be one of the natural wonders of the world and a must-visit during your holiday to Brazil.
Once you have witnessed this natural spectacle, take the chance to enjoy it close up on a boat ride that goes directly under the falls itself! Back on dry land, the National Park offers great opportunities to hike around its huge variety of colourful flora and fauna. Enjoy amazing views along the Argentinian side of Iguazu falls known as the Garganta del Diablo.
Explore the essence of Argentina
Buenos Aires is always the highlight of a holiday to Argentina. This city is an irresistible combination of Latin flair and European elegance, full of life, soul and passion. When exploring this cosmopolitan city, you will find colourful ‘barrios’ with their own unique character and style, vintage cafes, art galleries, world-class shopping and the most passionate tango dancers in the world. If you want to discover a little more the following highlights are always part of a classic Buenos Aires tourist checklist: the Plaza de Mayo which is the political hub of Buenos Aires; the Plaza de la República where some of the top sights are located, such as the Colon Theater, the Alzaga Unzué Palace and the French Embassy building; the Museo de Arte Moderno (Mamba) featuring impressive art pieces and the Gothic Cathedral La Plata. Explore the capital’s eclectic architecture and the different districts including elegant Recoleta, bohemian San Telmo, trendy Palermo, colourful La Boca and the modern Puerto Madero.
After the sightseeing, mingle with the local crowds at the best "milongas" in town where you can experience a traditional tango show. With its fast-envolving food scene, there are a growing number of trendy restaurants with exciting dishes you can taste, along with fantastic local wines; the quality of their famous steak dishes is hard to beat. Ensure you try mate tea, one of the most popular drinks in the region, and people of all ages drink mate, at home with family or while spending a relaxed afternoon with friends.
If you want to visit the country side of Argentina, head to the Pampas, located in the south-west of Buenos Aires. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the spectacular landscapes or even take a horse ride.
Fly to the north-western area and visit the preserved colonial architecture the city of Salta. This is an engaging place with great museums, such as the Museo de Arqueologia de Alta Montana.
During your trip to Argentina travel on the 'Train to the Clouds, one of the worlds most famous rail trips that departs from San Antonio de los Cobres and climbs its way into the spectacular heights of the Andes. During this rail trip, you will enjoy desert landscapes and majestic vistas.
Witness the bustling and historical Vietnam
A country steeped in deep history, located in the south-east of Asia, Vietnam is diverse in culture, with vivacious blend of colours and delightful cuisine.
The floating markets, ancient villages, authentic stilt-houses, architecture influenced by China during colonial times and a myriad of temples and pagodas, makes Vietnam a culture lovers’ paradise.
Our top picks to visit during your holiday to Vietnam is the bustling city of Saigon in the south; the UNESCO awarded ancient town with narrow streets of Hoi An in South Central Vietnam; Duy Phú village, the important archaeological site located in the Southeast and considered one of the most notable ancient sites of Asia; situated in Central Vietnam Hue reflects in its cultures, architecture and cuisine the glorious period of the Nguyen dynasty; to the booming capital city Hanoi. Also, located in northern Vietnam near the Chinese border, Ha Long Bay forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars where a boat trip is a must-do. There is so much to see and do in Vietnam, the list is endless and promises to bring you the most memorable places and experiences from your holiday to this extraordinary country.
If any of these destinations take your fancy, our specialists are on hand and ready to help create the perfect, tailor-made holiday for you. Give us a call or email us to get started and make it a year to remember.
