Top 10 destinations for 2009
Choosing the holiday destination that’s perfect for you can be tricky, so check out Expedia's selection of the Top Ten places to visit in 2009. From old favourites to up-and-coming destinations, you can find your perfect trip right here.
1. New Zealand
If Martians landed and needed a one-stop shop for a showcase of the best that the world had to offer, they could do a lot worse than a trip to New Zealand. From sandy beaches to stunning mountain scenery, vine yards to glaciers, buzzing cities to the wide open spaces of one of the least crowded countries in the world, all underwritten by a unique heritage. Its incredible natural geographic area includes three harbours, two mountain ranges, 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands. At certain times of the year it is possible to surf, ski and snowboard on the same day.
2. Argentina
With a unique nationality comprised of Italian, Spanish and South American influence, Argentina is a country full of surprises. At its heart is Buenos Aires, a throbbing, sophisticatedly beautiful metropolitan city that would look more at home in Europe than in South America. From incomparable steaks, flamboyant tango, passionate locals and neighbourhoods that change dramatically from street to street it is a wonderful city to explore. But there is so much more to this country than BA, with Iguazu Falls, Tierra del Fuego (literally translated ‘Island of fire’ but in reality the gate way to Ushuaia the most southerly city in the world) Patagonia and the awesome Andes, Argentina will use several tactics to take your breath away.
3. China
With the current boom sweeping through China, now is a great time to visit and see the contrast and ambitious transition between new and old. Nowhere is this change more evident than in its forerunning cities of Beijing and Shanghai. With the Olympics arriving in Beijing in summer 2008, the boom has stepped up another gear. Shanghai contains more than 17 million people and 4,000 skyscrapers (with another 1,000 in the pipeline) whilst Beijing may have the cultural edge, Shanghai has the glitz. Always nice to have options!
4. Cape Verde
Coming back for a second year as one of Expedia customers Top Tips is the collection of sunny islands already dubbed the 'new Caribbean'. Year-round sunshine, white sand beaches and Creole culture perfectly mix to offer you a relaxing holiday.
5. Abu Dhabi
Few places can have undergone such fundamental change over the past 50 years as the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Today it’s a powerhouse of the Arab world, perched atop vast oil reserves, with development and ambitious construction to rival its famous neighbour Dubai. Today visitors can enjoy the beach, desert safari’s and acres of glossy malls and shops in and around the city, variety enough to quench even the strongest thirst for retail therapy.
6. Alaska
Alaska is like travelling to no other place on earth. There are 586,000 square miles of extraordinary terrain, and almost that many possibilities to enjoy it. A haven for outdoors enthusiasts, choose from spectacular wildlife, including humpback whale and grizzly bear spotting, sea kayaking, guided glacier hikes or a chance to reel in your own world famous Alaskan King Salmon. Truly a destination with a difference for 2008.
7. Reykjavik
The world’s most northernmost capital is quite literally a breath of fresh air, beautifully blending a mix of fun, space, clean air, nature and unique Icelandic charm. With the stunning volcanic landscape speckled with natural thermal lagoons and geysers, if you aren’t lucky enough to see the Northern Lights there are always those of the lively café culture and clubbing scene to fall back on.
8. Berlin
Anyone with a premonition of Berlin based on its past will be pleasantly surprised upon arriving in one of the greenest cities in Europe, with some of the most laid back locals. While the city has always been a meeting point of east and west, today it’s also a major cultural centre, combining top-flight museums, galleries and concert halls with thriving alternative arts and music scenes. Travelling within the city is effortless with some of the best public transport in Europe, perfect for visiting all those must see sights from the Check Point Charlie museum to uber-modern East Berlin.
9. Boston
With is reputation as a historic, arts and culturally shaped city, Boston is coming into its own as destination for American and world-wide visitors. With great shopping and beautiful open spaces Boston is rapidly gaining a reputation as a more accessible New York.
10. Liverpool
Liverpool is experiencing a renaissance as it moves in on its title of European Capital of Culture 2008. With more listed buildings than anywhere in the UK outside of London it is a great city to walk around, the perfect opportunity to soak up the musical, sporting and historic heritage that beats through it.
