In 2016 we saw everyone flocking to Iceland, Thailand and New York. Of course, a new year means a new beginning.. so what will the trendiest places to visit in 2017? I have read through endless blogs, articles and magazines and the following 5 places, is where I think everyone will be flooding to this year. WARNING! This may cause serious wanderlust and an extra page added to your bucket list…

5. Ireland/Northern Ireland

Why?

I promise I’m not being bias (maybe a little…)The lush green grass, the unique hilly scenery and the secluded villages and islands has captured the hearts of the major film series- Star Wars. Parts of Rogue One was captured in Skellig Michael in County Kerry. If you a hardcore Star Wars fan, I recommend spending a week or two in Ireland and visiting this island!

Getting there:

County Kerry has a very small airport which Ryanair and other cheap airlines fly into. However, you will be able to fly into Dublin airport much easier. County Kerry is approx. a 2 hour drive from Dublin.

Note: You can only access Skellig Micahel  by boat so it is weather dependent.

Getting Around:

I suggest, you should hire a car as the public transport system isn’t the greatest and you will miss the true beauty of the Irish countryside!

What else?

Additionally, with the new season of Game of Thrones airing on our screens in 2017, more people will be booking themselves onto the Game of thrones tour around the coast in Northern Ireland (approx.4-5 hour drive from County Kerry). The one day tour shows every film location in northern Ireland and allows tourist to see the beauty of the north coast! See my post on Northern Ireland for more things to do to make the most of your visit!

When to go? May-September will the hottest months but I suggest packing a coat and warm clothes no matter what time you go as the weather is very unpredictable and it rains ALOT.

4. PERU

Why?  The Machu Picchu trail has always been popular but in the last year I have noticed an increase in interest and awareness of this outstanding hiking trail. I can’t go onto to Facebook or Twitter without someone talking about it or an advert showing the incredible scenery you can experience.
Don’t fancy getting you hiking boots on? Maybe this fact would interest you a whole lot more: Lima, the Peruvian capital, is home to three of the world’s top 30 restaurants! Experience food at its best in:- Central (world No. 4 on the 2016 “50 Best” list), Maido (No. 13), and Astrid y Gaston (No. 30). Sounds tasty!

When to go?

For hiking, and getting the best weather, it is best to visit Peru between May and September
More info–  visitperu.com

3. Finland

Why?

Did you know that Finland is celebrating it’s 800th year of independence from Sweden and Russia in 2017? No- well now you know! 2017 will be full of celebrations and parties in every region! Why would want to to miss sauna themed parties where the sun literally never sets in the summer?

When to go? Summer time to see the endless days

2. Colombia

After – what seems like a lifetime- of civil war, this country has now set aside all hate and has opened its arms to the world. After years of being neglected by tourists, this vibrant beautiful country will be crowded with tourist soon enough after Pope Francis touches the soil in 2017, 30 years after the last visit from the Pope.  And just look at these gorgeous pictures!!

Where you should go:

The Rock of Guatapé”, also known as El Peñol Stone or simply as La Piedra is a massive rock located in the town of Guatapé. This gigantic rock is approx. 200 meters high smoother than a baby’s bum. To experience the view, you will have to prepare yourselves to climb an agonizing 649 steps to get to the top. My legs hurt just thinking about it. At the top, you will be rewarded with stalls selling souvenirs, food&drinks and of course, platforms to soak in the best views! So you can enjoy well deserve meal outside while having a celebratory drink looking at the tremendous view!

1.Canada

I visited Canada during a month long road trip across north America an I can honestly say that I can’t say one bad word about it. Canada has the most outstanding beauty due the the mountains, glaciers, clear blue lakes and the well-kept, safe cities. A trip to Canada can offer a variety of different activates all in one. For example, you can go skiing on the tops of their mountains, explore the highlights of Vancouver, soak in some French culture in Montreal and then experience one of the world’s most famous waterfalls – Niagara falls.

If you do get a chance to explore this country that keeps on giving, I suggest you hire a car and explore the country for at least a month! You will not regret it! Don’t forget your hiking boots – you’ll need them!

Highlights:

• Banff – This town set on the foot of the mountains and is where the famous Banff National park is situate here. The national park is home to clear blue glacier lakes that our surrounded my snowy mountains! It’s the definition of picturesque! This park is a most see! Wrap up warm though, I visited this park in July 2015 and we experienced a nasty snow blizzard!
• Niagara falls – I unfortunately didn’t get to see the Niagara falls n my visit to Canada but it’s on my list!
• Toronto CN tower– See the whole city from one spot!
• Calgary stampede – An annual rodeo show in Calgary, Alberta every July.

When to go: Anytime! Every season has its advantages.

Happy travels for 2017!
Book your 2017 adventures right now with Booking.com!

Thanks for reading,

Peace out my wanderers,

Lisa ♥

*Information from Lonely Planet and Traveller.com