Top 10 Destinations for 2011

By ola, December 24th 2010, Comments (39)

Hopefully the New Year will endow all of us with endless opportunities to travel. If you don't have your sights set on anything in particular, check out what's going to be on the global tourist radar in 2011. Bon voyage!

 

Curacao

Those who keep a watchful eye out for unique travel opportunities have most probably taken notice of Curacao. After all, how often does it happen that the world gets an entirely new country? 2011 will mark the island first full year as an autonomous nation after the Netherlands Antilles were resolved on 10 October 2010. Now independent and responsible for its financial well-being, Curacao will surely bet on its strongest horse – vibrant history, marvelous architecture and irresistible Caribbean charm. You may expect more flights and hotel rooms to cater to all budget ranges, as well as warm hospitality and plenty of tourist attractions.

Willemstad architecture

Willemstad architecture. By TerData

 

Iceland

Once financial crisis hit Iceland, everyone readily assumed it is dirt cheap to travel around. Well, not as much as you’d think, probably, but if you've always had your mind fixed on visiting the fabulous country of fire and ice and procrastinated for budgetary reasons, then it might be the right time to go. The problem with Iceland is that it has always been more pricey than other destinations in Europe, but with a substantial decrease in the exchange rate, you might consider it a bargain even if you get to pay between $75 and $100 for a hotel in Reykjavik. So, you'd better pack a pair of good trekking boots and off you go. Once Iceland fully gets back on its feet, it may never be as “affordable” as it is now.

Góðafoss. Northeast Iceland

Góðafoss. Northeast Iceland. By shchukin

 

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is shaping up to be one of the premier tourist attractions in the Gulf of Finland. This vibrant city, with the astonishingly well preserved medieval old town, has just been designated as one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2011 and is eager to demonstrate that small as it may be, it is capable of huge cultural accomplishments. Alongside enchanting Estonian spirit, numerous sites to explore, bargain shopping, and bustling nightlife, tourists will be treated to an endless list of events including carnivals, exhibitions, concerts, audio-visual arts and sporting competitions. Every day the capital of Estonia will burst with culture at its best, and you surely don't want to miss it.

 

New York City, USA

There's nothing really surprising about New York's presence on all sorts of top 10 lists. It's always a good time and there's always a reason to visit, but NYC is truly a destination to have an eye on in 2011. A bunch of anniversary events are going to take place, including the The Statue of Liberty's 125's birthday, Carnegie Hall turning 120 and the New York Public Library celebrating its centennial. Also, several museums will be reopened and the expansion of hotel base continued so travelers should be able to find a comfy place falling into their budgets. Most importantly, the inauguration of the National September 11 Memorial will commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2001. 

 

Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan

Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan. By .: Philipp Klinger :.

 

Galápagos Islands

In the 2010 edition of World's Best Awards, the Galapagos were voted the best islands, so it's worth checking out what's behind the honors. After all, it beat Hawaii, Bali and Maldives, and that needs a considerable package of superlatives. Scattered around the equator, some 970 km (525 nmi) west of continental Ecuador, the volcanic archipelago is where the adventurous feel at home. You can come up close and personal with giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas and various bird species inhabiting the remote, barren land - a unique, wild ecosystem that largely inspired Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection. However, a growing number of tourists has been causing such concerns that plans have been brought up to limit tourists to one visit to the islands during a lifetime. If so, why not use your credit next year?

Wildlife Paradise

Wildlife Paradise. By mtchm

 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Visitors to Rio de Janeiro in 2011 will find the city in the heat of excited development. Not only will they be able to enjoy the sun, sea and samba, but will also welcome a new face of Rio- posh, sophisticated and glamorous. Of course there are still safety issues and poverty pokes in the eye, but millions invested in remodeling before the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics have really made the difference. With such major events in sight, perhaps it's just the right time to go – you can already enjoy Rio's fresh image and still avoid the crowds that with all likelihood will flood Brazil in the coming years.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. By André Luiz Martins

 

Syria

As the oldest continuously inhabited urban settlement on Earth, Syria has more stunning ancient sites than you'd ever think. Most importantly, while most other countries in the Middle East are becoming less and less affordable, Syria keeps the prices ridiculously low, but who knows how long this bargain treat is going to be served. The Crac des Chevaliers , called the most wholly admirable castle in the world, charges less than US$5 entry, so you get the picture. Bustling souqs, great food, intriguing cultural heritage and endearing hospitality of the people all come at an equally attractive price.

Palmyra

Palmyra. By Roba66

 

Philippines

As far as cheap beach vacations are concerned, Thailand has long had the edge over its Southeast Asian neighbors. The added advantage of delicious food and fascinating cultural heritage made it a bull's-eye destination for visitors seeking bargain prices, tropical climate, awe-striking sights and lots of pampering for the senses. But the time has come to give the throne to the Philippines. With more than 7,000 islands, stunning marine life, beaches of all sorts, awesome wreck diving opportunities and exceptionally wallet-friendly prices, the archipelago may for a long while remain the world's premier beach holiday destination. If that's the kind of pleasures you're after, book a spot under a palm tree before others learn about it...

White Island

White Island. By paynepat44

 

Machu Picchu, Peru

The whole Peru is certainly a destination to consider, but Machu Picchu seems to be the hottest spot in the country's calendar for 2011. The year marks the centenary of the first ever foreigner to reach the site and herald its presence to the whole wide world. Steps have been undertaken to make it an even more memorable experience to the visitors, especially that the site has been closed for a while due to heavy flooding and travelers are waiting impatiently to race into the incredible realm of the Incas. The nearest town, Aguas Calientes, is supposedly going to be more eye-pleasing and visitor-friendly, so the overall impression of the trip might even exceed your expectations.

Early morning in wonderful Machu Picchu

Early morning in wonderful Machu Picchu. By szeke

 

Doha, Qatar

Doha is just about to put a finishing touch on its four million square meter artificial island called The Pearl, which is enough to throw the capital of Qatar into the limelight. If you're eager to experience the oil-funded splendor of the Gulf but somehow fear the overwhelming glamor and pretentious facade of Dubai, Doha is a slightly milder form of Arabian opulence, plus it has nicer beaches and more gourmet restaurants to choose from. Numerous world-class sporting events taking place in 2011 will delight avid fans while the third edition of Doha-Tribeca Film Festival will draw countless celebrities and reaffirm the Arab presence in the international film industry.

The Pearl Qatar

The Pearl Qatar. By esmampusti

 

Has anything caught your eye? Or is the anticipated popularity good enough a reason to head in the opposite direction?

 

 

 

Tags: 2011 destinations, top destinations in 2011, Iceland, Curacao, Rio de Janeiro

Comments

  1. Voyager Inde Dec 30, 2010 1:46 PM

    Hmm, truly beautiful places to travel



  2. lennor allibsus Jan 4, 2011 5:00 PM

    Philippines is the Best when it come to beaches..really nice

  3. El Selventue Jan 4, 2011 5:02 PM

    see you philippines..nice place

  4. Rick C. Jan 5, 2011 6:00 AM

    About time Philippines comes to mind...more than just beautiful....you will find amazing places, enjoy the beach, plus more....Best place to go shopping..

  5. Christopher Jan 6, 2011 9:07 AM

    Great places. Do the Inca Trail if you visit Machu Picchu. The Philippines are on my list.

  6. Johny Smith Jan 10, 2011 10:34 AM

    Awesome list for 2011.I have to travel to Rio this time

  7. Andrea Feb 2, 2011 2:29 AM

    Wow really inspiring pictures that make me want to get out there. I should be moving to NYC this year so I'm happy its on the list and that a lot will be going on.

    andrealweaver.wordpress.com

  8. Natalie Feb 7, 2011 5:15 PM

    very exciting list this year so many to chose from

  9. Rajeev Feb 21, 2011 1:05 PM

    Awesome list 2011.Thanks for posting.I would like to recommend one of the popular tourist destination of my country,Nepal called Thamel.Its has got lots of things to see and do for international tourist.Highly recommended.

  10. Culture Feb 22, 2011 10:04 PM

    Stunning pictures !! Truly a great collection of places.

    I would like to add another top destination for 2011.

    It is Berlin to attend the World Culture Festival on July 2 and 3. A festival at the Olympic Stadium, Berlin.

  11. Frank Mar 9, 2011 6:31 PM

    Really nice destinations! I would add Uruguay to this list. In case you've never been to Uruguay, it is a small country next to Argentina with astonishing beaches and cities. Thousands of tourists come between January and March. However, it is also great to visit during the rest of the year, since it has more than just beaches. Have you ever been to Uruguay?

  12. Alonso Apr 6, 2011 1:14 PM

    Qatar is a wonderful place. Especially with the developments taking place for 2022 World Cup!

  13. Nadeesha Apr 9, 2011 10:58 AM

    I think Sri Lanka should be in this lst

  14. Clark Watskin Apr 14, 2011 3:29 PM

    Philippines has the best beaches in the World. I was in Boracay Island and Bohol last year! Philippines with very friendly people..... Clark here from Texas!

  15. tripgirl6@gmail.com Apr 26, 2011 9:33 AM

    Galápagos Islands.A truly beautiful looking island and hopefully things will go according to plan for me and this time next year I will be experiencing it for real.

  16. Felix Lirio May 5, 2011 11:04 PM

    We offer not just one but 7,107 Islands Pick one to Discover! Thank for your support Mabuhay!
    from Fiesta Islands of the PHILIPPINES
    Trivia :P hilippines is derived from King Philip II of Spain 1542 whin it was Discover by Spanish Armada lies in the Pacific Orient.

  17. www.3rsafaris.com May 18, 2011 9:25 PM

    Tanzania,the Land of Mt.Kilimanjaro a snow caped mountain,sourounded with beutiful environment with virieties of wild animals,birds,butterflies,flowers and differents kind of living organism,Actually Tanzania is the best place

  18. cagayandeoroexpat May 31, 2011 6:00 PM

    Philippines' Davao City is the best tourist destination in the country. Safety, cleanliness & hospitable people made the city's best!

  19. TAEGON May 31, 2011 6:02 PM

    DAVAO: Philippines' done right!

  20. Pat Jun 15, 2011 4:07 AM

    Incredibe pictures. All are on my "wish list" for travel.

  21. bijay pokharel Jul 3, 2011 4:52 PM

    i think nepal is amazing place in the heart of himalayas.

  22. Ntokozo Jul 8, 2011 10:14 AM

    Doha Qatar z d mwaaaah

  23. haile Jul 8, 2011 10:20 AM

    I go wth Ntokozo Qatar is the best

  24. Kenny Wales Jul 16, 2011 8:53 AM

    I think I must go to the Philippines... :)

  25. Sanjay Jul 20, 2011 8:00 AM

    did i read wrong? Under New York, the last sentence reads: "Most importantly, the inauguration of the National September 11 Memorial will commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2011".. dont you mean September 11, 2001?

  26. james Nov 15, 2011 11:02 AM

    philipines is very nice place to stay, relax with your special someone

  27. jenniefer Nov 19, 2011 3:38 AM

    they should have put ''costa rica''

  28. sugar Mar 8, 2012 1:21 PM

    come and visit bohol in the philippines lots of nice white sand beaches and with friendly and nice people.....

  29. hi Mar 16, 2012 5:43 PM

    hey

  30. nobody Mar 16, 2012 5:49 PM

    awsome website

  31. earl Apr 2, 2012 3:09 PM

    oh my goodness... i just love the philippines...
    the best country for me...
    a country of perfection!!!
    the best philippines!!! go!!!

  32. ricky orozco aguilar Apr 17, 2012 6:36 AM

    try also Aurora Province in Philippines. ideal and best for surfing experiences, scuba diving and huge waterfalls with very affordable rates. Paradise of the Pacific.

  33. Antonio Jun 12, 2012 8:17 PM

    congratulations, People is having really intense hollydays in Siria because of you... XD

  34. juliemarg Jun 21, 2012 11:45 PM

    These places are all nicezz

  35. iranian Jun 29, 2012 9:29 PM

    good.i suggest traveling in iran

  36. urrrr Aug 9, 2012 7:32 PM

    I don't like this list at all. For example, it mentions Rio De Janeiro. It is an OK place, but over hyped. The only has about 3 things to see and the beach is not what they try to sell it as ... there are thousands of better beach experiences anywhere in the world. Plus awful traffic. You will be sitting stuck in traffic in a bus most of your time. Been there. Doha? Are you joking ?? ? Doha is for people that have lots of money and ZERO taste for culture. If you want to spend your day in a luxury hotel watching tv or going to a shopping mall, that is Doha, but for that, why don't you just stay home ?? ? Syria, they have war!!! Tallin ?? Pfff.. another obvious mistake. It is an ok place, but really doesn't have many monuments AND it has a very small population. You will get bored the second day.

  37. Noo Oct 15, 2012 10:51 PM

    After a cursory reivew of metatags for your website: bookitholidays.co.uk, we found:1) Your relies heavily on brand recognition of your domain name, which if it is not recognizable as a search query, then replace it with generic descriptive entries stating specifically what kinds of trips, be it by air, sea, or whatever you are offering. And where's the business locator, i.e., city, state, country which normally follows the last entry in the ; and2) There is a missing metatag which needs to be properly designed and placed on your opening webpage.And finally, here's a helpful definitive tutorial from google.com which clearly defines how metatags are designed and placed :P lacement of Metatags:A ranking or search order does take place with Googleand Yahoo and it begins with the "Title" metag whichshould consist of no more than 65 characters separatedby commas. The "Title" should describe in genericterms, the goods and services, followed by a locationfrom which the resource is located, i.e., city, state.The placement of a domain name which is not genericwithin the "Title" is not appropriate, unless yourdomain name is a major recognizable brand name.The second metatag is the "Description" which isusually 25-30 words to form a complete sentence whichbest describes one's goods and services.And the very last category "Keywords" are alsosomewhat limited to 15-16 words which can be pluraland compound in nature. Again, avoid multiple entrieswhich could be mistaken as "spamdexed entries" whichis defined as the loading, and submission ofrepetitive words into a particular metatag category."Spamdexing" when discovered on a webpage and reportedto Google's spamreport.com can result in theelimination of your website from their searchdirectory.Good luck!References :

  38. rahull Nov 6, 2012 7:55 AM

    tnxx for valuble information...... :)

  39. Daniela avatar Daniela Nov 10, 2012 6:06 PM

    Hey, go Philippines ! I can even give you a tour i had been visit many times in the Philippines, the people there are very friendly .Going to the beaches, ride a jet ski and snorkelling is awesome . Go Boracay island, Palawan island, Cebu Mctan, there are 1,107 island to visit.

  40. Name: May 23, 2013 4:17 PM

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