Top 10 Best Places to Visit in 2014
Everyone needs a change of scenery once in a while. There’s nothing better than discovering and relaxing in an unfamiliar place that has affordable accommodations, once-in-a-lifetime events, world heritage sites, and world-class local cuisines. If you’re looking for a place to spend your vacations in 2014, then check out this list. From top sporting events to new attractions to watch out for, there are lots of places to discover this coming year.
Tourism industries all over the world anticipate growth in 2014 as the world economy recovers from the previous years. With news like this, it’s no surprise that you must be planning your next holiday destination. But with so many locations to choose from, which way should you go? Brazil leads the list as the top tourist destination in the world, as the country hosts the 2014 FIFA World Cup. For those who are not into sports, though, there are also many places around the world for every kind of traveler, be it one that adores beaches, mountain ranges, awe-inspiring architecture, or tantalizing local food.
If you want to travel away from home but don’t want to leave the comfort of being away from modern cities, there’s Australia, China, Japan, and Korea. If you’re up for an adventure, try visiting the Russian mountains or the Greek islands. There’s no need to stop yourself from exploring the world: it’s easier to travel now than ever before, with all the apps and technology available to let us immerse ourselves into new cultures and new destinations with no problem. Everyone knows that traveling the world is one of the most educational and satisfying experiences one can have, so in 2014, make it your goal to visit a place you’ve been dreaming of. Just pick one from this list and you’re sure to have a blast!
10. Australia
Prince William has announced that he plans on visiting Australia in 2014 with his son, Prince George. Why shouldn’t you do the same? Australia has numerous bustling cities along its coastlines as well as stunning beaches. Aside from hosting the annual Australian Open Tennis Championships, the country is also looking forward to completing the multimillion dollar renovation of Adelaide Oval in 2014. Furthermore, if you’re game for some adventure, Australia has a rich and diverse wildlife that you’ll enjoy seeing, with native creatures such as kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
9. Portugal
If you’re looking for a European country to visit but you’re also looking for one that’s within your budget, then try visiting Portugal. The country offers the cheapest rates for family holidays. Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, also offers inexpensive tram rides to let you travel around the city with ease. Remember to visit Terreiro do Paco, the city’s main square, restored to its former glory. Venturing beyond the capital also has its perks: visit World Heritage site town Évora, the nearby wine estates, and surrounding surfing destinations.
8. Russia
Get your heavy coats ready, because Russia will host the 2014 Winter Olympics in February 2014. If you’re a real sports and adrenaline junkie, book your tickets as early as you can so you can watch big events like figure skating and hockey. But aside from visiting Sochi, you can also tour Moscow and visit sites like the Moscow Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral.
7. Greece
Anyone who’s been raised with a deep Western influence needs to see Greece at least once in their lives. While the country has suffered a few setbacks in the last couple of years, Greece still invests in keeping its tourism first class. Visit sites like the Parthenon, Delphi Theater, Mykonos, and Santorini. With its strong influence to Western culture, Greece is a country that needs no introduction.
6. Shanghai, China
If you’re looking for a truly modern and developed city, Shanghai is the place to go. The city will have the third longest metro network in the world once its new high speed line opens in 2014. In addition, 2014 will be the year that the Shanghai Tower will be completed, which will become the second tallest structure in the world. Shanghai also boasts of a wonderful culinary scene, which gives you a crash course to the most delicious Chinese fare, including Xiao Long Bao, Hanging Roasted Duck, and late night street noodles.
5. South Korea
Over the past couple of years, South Korean products, food, music, and culture reached global acclaim, and the best place to discover more of it would be in the country itself. Visit Seoul and the surrounding Korean cities for spicy but delicious Korean food, beautiful men and women, live Korean music, high-tech bargains, and superb service with lots of random freebies. Furthermore, you never have to worry about not being connected to the Internet—Seoul is the place where you can get hi-speed Wi-Fi and LTE service virtually anywhere.
4. Scotland
Let 2014 be the year you visit Scotland, because it’s going to be the year that the region will host worldwide sporting events including The Commonwealth Games and The Ryder Cup. 2014 is also Scotland’s Year of Homecoming, where Scots from all over the world will come and visit their hometown in the biggest homecoming event of the year.
3. Japan
If you’ve always wanted to visit Japan but have never gotten a chance to, then 2014 may be the year you book a trip to the land of the rising sun. There are plenty of reasons to visit Japan, including eating authentic sushi, ramen, yakitori, yakiniku, and other Japanese classics. While Japan has been difficult to access for tourists in the past years, Japan has recently opened its doors to more tourists by issuing more visas and loosening some of its tourist restrictions.
2. Italy
Italy should always be on everyone’s list of places to visit because of its wide variety of world heritage sites, inexpensive accommodation, warm and cheerful locals, and world-class food you can buy at any corner. The most popular destinations include Rome, Venice, Pompeii, Capri, and Florence. Get ready to visit the Colosseum, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Square, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain. It’s time to say you had me at buon giorno!
1. Brazil (World Cup, Summer Olympics)
All eyes will be on Brazil in 2014 as the country hosts the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Get ready to cheer for your team in the country’s newly constructed stadiums. Aside from hosting one of the most celebrated sporting events of the year, though, Brazil is also home to top tourist destinations such as its picturesque beaches, ecological landscapes, and sunny cities. Get ready to party in the streets of Rio and eat Brazilian churrasco!
