Once you’ve found your ideal holiday destination for 2019, book your travel vaccinations here using our simple online booking process. Or if you’re looking for a last minute appointment, give us a call on 020 3432 1381.
2019 is no doubt going to be a great year for travel. With an ever-growing thirst for new experiences and an increase in travel opportunities worldwide, we can be sure that the British population are going to be searching far and wide for the best places to visit this year.
The 2018 Travel Trends Report highlighted the emergence of new travel destinations, and because of this, we’ve pulled together a list of the best places to travel in 2019. Have you thought about which holiday destination you’d like to visit in 2019? Well, why not let this year be the one you try something new?
Best places to visit in 2019
Agra, India
For many years now India has been a particularly popular travel destination for people across the world; especially people living in Britain. There are many areas of India that attract tourists, such as Goa and incredible beaches and party atmosphere. However, in Nothern India lies Agra, a city full of wonders, offering tourists unique experiences that aren’t to be found anywhere else in the world. None more so than the iconic Taj Mahal!
In 2019, the Taj Mahal will emerge from a year-long restoration that has somehow seen it become even more beautiful. The ivory-white marble mausoleum’s marble dome and turrets now gleam and glisten more than ever, leaving visitors in awe.
On top of the Taj Mahal, Agra also has a plethora of other landmarks and activities that attract all kinds of different people.
Best things to do in Agra:
Taj Mahal – The aforementioned marble mausoleum is one of Agra’s finest sights, a must see for any tourist visiting the north of India.
Akbar’s Tomb – The tomb of the Mughal emperor, Akbar’s Tomb is an architectural phenomenon. Akbar’s Tomb is located in Sikandra, Agra, and sits within 119 acres of Mughal style gardens where you will find antelope and monkeys.
Exhibits and shows at the Kalakriti Culture and Convention Centre – This Grand cultural centre hosts various art exhibitions and live Bollywood-style shows about the Taj Mahal. The exhibits and shows are full of colour and vibrancy, offering you some real insight into what makes Agra such a special place.
Agra Fort – Despite its colossal size and grand design, Agra Fort can often be overlooked as one of the city’s main tourist attractions. The exceptional 94 acre Mughal fort, constructed from red sandstone and marble, is a stalwart of the city and visiting it will be an experience that you never forget.
Namibia
Often labelled as ‘Africa for beginners’ within tourist and traveller circles, Namibia is a country full of amazing sights and traditional African culture. With a variety of wildlife and some of the oldest deserts in the world, this southern African country offers travellers many exciting opportunities.
The national parks in Namibia attract many species and breed of animal, with the most notable the famous Etosha National Park in the north of the country. The park is well-known as a place where you can spot desert lions and African elephants – not something you get to do every day.
Although sweeping deserts and wildlife are the main attractions for many people, Namibia also has much more to offer.
Best things to do in Namibia:
Etosha National Park – Based in Northwest Namibia and covering over 20,00 sq km, Etosha National Park is undoubtedly one of the most amazing places to see wildlife anywhere in the world. It’s often said that the best time of year to visit Estosha and see the magnificent wildlife is between May and December.
Fish River Canyon – The largest canyon in Africa, the Fish River Canyon is the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia. The gigantic ravine stretches over roughly 160km in length and is almost 550 meters deep. If you’re interested in getting a full picture of this African phenomenon, there are some fantastic tours of the Fish River Canyon that many tourists opt to take advantage of when visiting Namibia.
Sossusvlei – The large salt and clay pan is located in the southern part of the Namib desert. The famous desert area is well-known for the astounding red dunes that surround it, with some of the dunes reaching up to 400 meters in height. Sossusvlei also plays host to some intriguing plants and wildlife.
Cheetah Farm – Namibia is the country with the largest population of wild Cheetah. So, if you’re interested in witnessing these amazing wild cats in all their glory, then a trip to one of Namibia’s fantastic cheetah farms is a must.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The home of sun, samba and superb football, Rio de Janeiro makes for a scintillating travel experience. Known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City); there are endless reasons to visit Rio de Janeiro.
From the beautiful sandy beaches and famous landmarks to the samba fuelled nightlife and carnival atmosphere, there’s no wonder that the seaside city of Rio has captured the imagination of so many travellers over the years.
On top of the beautiful sights and party atmosphere, Rio also has something for the explorers among us. If you’re a fan of high-intensity sports (or even some danger), then why not try hiking in the Tijuca rainforest, cycling alongside the lake and beaches, sailing across Baía de Guanabara (Guanabara Bay), surfing, rock climbing or hang gliding during your time in Rio?
Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro:
Copacabana Beach – Beautiful golden sand and blue sea stretches for 4km on the coast of Copacabana. If you visit Copacabana Beach between December and March, you won’t be alone; you’ll be surrounded by swimwear-clad locals queuing up at kiosks for caipirinhas and local favela children showcasing their footballing talents.
Christ the Redeemer – It would be crass to visit Rio de Janeiro without considering taking a look at one of the seven wonders of the world. The immense Christ the Redeemer statue sits atop the Corcovado mountain, stands at 38m tall and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Brazil.
Carnival – Rio de Janeiro has a carnival atmosphere throughout the year; however, the real Rio Carnival is held every year in March, before Lent. Considered the biggest carnival in the world, the Rio Carnival attracts around two million people out onto the streets to party each day. With bright colours and vibrant music throughout, the Rio Carnival reaches its apex on the final day with the Champions Parade.
When is the Rio Carnival in 2019? – The Rio Carnival starts on Saturday, 2 March 2019 and ends on Saturday, 9 March 2019.
Sugarloaf Cable Car – Moving between Praia Vermelha and the Sugarloaf Mountain, riding the Sugarloaf Cable Car offers views that rival anything south of the equator. The cable car reaches the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain (220m), and from there you can marvel at the beauty of the southern Brazilian coastline.
Dakar, Senegal
If you’re looking for extreme diversity, then that’s exactly what you’ll find if you visit Dakar. Lonely Planet delightfully offer up the following commentary on the diversity of the city; “Dakar is a city of extremes, where horse-cart drivers chug over swish highways, and gleaming SUVs squeeze through tiny sand roads; where elegant ladies dig skinny heels into dusty walkways and suit-clad businessmen kneel for prayer in the middle of the street.”
The Capital city of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula on the Atlantic coast, (the westernmost point of the African mainland) and is an underrated travel destination for tourists looking to explore Africa.
With plenty colourful culture and exquisite sights to see, including the African Renaissance Monument, when travelling to Dakar, you’ll seldom be left scratching your head for something to do.
Best Things to do in Dakar:
African Renaissance Monument – The African Renaissance Monument, or Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine, is a must-see during your time in Dakar. The 49-meter tall bronze statue represents African independence, and upon it’s unveiling in 2010, then President of Senegal Abdoulaye Wade declared; “It brings to life our common destiny. Africa has arrived in the 21st century standing tall and more ready than ever to take its destiny into its hands.”
Visit Gorée Island – Lying just off the coast of Senegal, Gorée Island is steeped in political history; this is because between the 15th and 19th century it was the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast. There are many historical lessons to be learned on Gorée Island, so if you’re interested in history and the abolition of the slave trade, then this is a must during your time in Senegal.
Nightlife and Music – As with most major cities across the world, Dakar is home to bars and restaurants. Despite the drinks and food, one thing that’s bound to stand out is the local people’s love and passion for music. From modern twists on Jazz to Afrobeats and Rap, the diverse music scene in Dakar has something for everybody.
Îles de la Madeleine – Situated just off the West coast of Dakar, these small volcanic islands are one of Senegal’s hidden treasures. The islands remain uninhabited due to local legend suggesting they are home to the spirit that protects the capital; despite this, taking the short boat trip out to Îles de la Madeleine is well worth it – even if it’s just to see the rare breeds of bird that reside there.
Baja California Sur, Mexico
Synonymous within the travelling world as a party haven due to the ‘infamous’ Cancun Spring Break and it’s thriving tequila industry, Mexico has been a popular tourist destination in recent times. Baja California Sur ticks all of the above boxes, as well as offering visitors some breathtaking views and cultural experiences.
The Baja California Sur region of Mexico is home to the popular tourist resorts of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, where many people from all across come to party every year. If nightlife is your main prerogative when you visit Baja California Sur, then from May to June would be the best time of year to take your trip.
Despite the main party season being in the summer, Baja California Sur has much to offer all year round. You can take a trip to the Valle De Guadalupe and sample some of the astounding flavours of the wine valley, or even go whale watching at the Ojo de Liebre Lagoon.
Best things to do in Baja California Sur:
Partying in Cabo San Lucas – Rivalled only by Cancun as the best place to party in Mexico, the resort city of Cabo San Lucas is a prime party destination for people of all ages. With a seemingly never-ending amount of bars and clubs (open both day and night), Cabo San Lucas provides the perfect platform for you to party until your heart’s content.
Best bars and clubs in downtown Cabo San Lucas >
Tortugueros Las Playitas – If you’re somebody that’s passionate about wildlife, and more specifically, the conservation of endangered species, then a visit to Tortugueros Las Playitas will be an absorbing experience for you. The remit of Tortugueros Las Playitas is to protect, conserve and replenish the fragile marine eco-systems of Baja California Sur, which is a fantastic cause. Those who visit the turtle conservation may be lucky enough to get involved in the release of baby turtles to the wild.
Valle De Guadalupe – One of the most up and coming wine regions in Central America, Valle De Guadalupe is an extremely popular tourist attraction in Mexico. Referred to as the Napa Valley of Mexico, Valle De Guadalupe offers not only exquisite wine but also some mouthwatering food – culminating in the ever-growing Valle Food & Wine Fest.
Arch of Cabo San Lucas – If you can manage to drag yourself away from the bars and party scene during your time in Cabo, then it’s worthwhile taking the time to check out the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. The distinctive rock formation is a visual marvel, and there’s the bonus that it’s also a popular sea lion gathering area, meaning you’ll also be able to experience some wonderful wildlife.
Some more amazing places to visit in 2019
Petra, Jordan
Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Shēnzhèn, China
Kathmandu, Nepal
Bhutan
Siargao, The Philippines
Once you’ve found your ideal holiday destination for 2019, book your travel vaccinations here, using our simple online booking process. Or if you’re looking for a last minute appointment, give us a call on 020 3432 1381.
