SKYCLUB TRAVEL BLOG

As 2015 draws to a close, the new year approaches with promises of the yet to be seen and experienced. So for 2016, why not plan to travel where you never thought you would ever visit? And why not? There are cities that historically did not blaze the tourist trail or necessarily made it to glossy brochures, but are fast becoming ‘the next’ hot spot for savvy travellers. So why not let 2016 be the year this savvy traveller makes such places their hot spot? Add the following to your travel highlights for 2016…

Cuba

Travelling to Cuba is now on everyone’s lips and now is the time to go as this controversial country is on the cusp of change. Over the years, this island nation has ever so slowly revealed itself to the world and is now on the verge of throwing its floodgates wide open as its economic and political relations with its neighbour, the US, is on the mend. The embassy has reopened, and with leading airlines like Austrian Airlines adding Cuba as a destination and Virgin Atlantic increasing services to Cuba, the tourists won’t be far behind.

Uruguay

When traveling to South America, people usually think the famous beaches of Brazil and its famed samba carnival, or the beautiful landforms of the Iguazu falls and the exotic Tango dance of Argentina. Bordering both is the tiny country of Uruguay – a dazzling destination in its own right and one you can feel exclusive to as it doesn’t feature on mass tourism itineraries. Its coastal capital of Montevideo will charm your sun shades off as Montevideo Bay shows off an old Spanish Citadel that is now the Plaza Independencia, and colonial landmarks like the towering Palacio Salvo. Mix in the smaller towns of Colonia del Sacramento and Punta del Este to cover your party nights, mix it up with the Gauchos in the picturesque countryside, and relax in one of the numerous hot springs dotted throughout the country and you’ve just found one of the most underrated destinations in the Americas and the next big thing in 2016 and beyond.

Colombia

Forget the now clichéd drug wars of the ‘70s and ‘80s that put Colombia on the map for all the wrong reasons. In the past, this country was a no-go zone, but has been overhauled in the recent decade and travellers are basking in the change. Medellin, once famous for the Medellin Cartel, is now popular for its addictive nightlife made up of the highest density of bars, discotecas and restaurants. Learn the crazy salsa style that is unique to Cali dancehalls, wonder the cobbled streets of the historic city of Cartagena, and unwind on the sun-soaked beaches around Barranquilla. There’s a lot to enjoy in Colombia other than their renowned rich coffee.

Iran

Yes, it’s safe. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, Iran is opening itself up to the world with tour operators reporting significant increases in bookings to Middle Eastern countries. Perhaps because of its thawing relationship with the West and a moderate government now in place, or simply because of the allure of exploring a little-known destination, Iran is fast becoming a tourist hotspot. From ancient cities to breath taking mosques to gorgeous natural landscapes and untouched tourist attractions, there are now more reasons to go to Iran in 2016. The Iranian people are some of the most kindest and hospitable around, so feel welcome in Isfahan, famous for its Islamic architecture, covered bridges, palaces and mosques; glory in the UNESCO World Heritage site that is Imam Square – one of the largest and most beautiful city squares in the world; or wonder at the contradiction that is the nation’s capital of Tehran, which is surrounded by snowy mountains. Iran is gently revealing its beauty for all to see and it’s worth being there to experience it for yourself.

Sri Lanka

If you usually think of holidays as island getaways, then look no further than Sri Lanka. This island packs in as much as an island can in one small land mass. It has soaring rainforests like heritage listed Sinharaja Forest Reserve, covered mountains, and ancient temples like Koneswaram Kovil. Be seduced by charming little towns like the little town of Habarana located at the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. And what is an island without its beaches? Of which Sri Lanka has in pristine abundance. Scuba dive in Unawatuna, soak in the rays at Hikkaduwa or surf at the home of the famed point break in Arugam Bay. Yes, Sri Lanka has your 2016 island holiday covered.