Another year has come and it’s time to start planning your trips for 2019. Are you in the mood for hiking? Laying on the beach? Visiting big cities? We got you covered! Here is a list of 7 cities you should visit in 2019.
1. Da Lat, Vietnam
Vietnam has long been a popular tourist destination in Asia, but most people tend to overlook the charming city of Da Lat. Nestled in the mountains is this peaceful place where you can relax, unwind, but still get some action. You can rent a motorbike and drive to waterfalls, go hiking, visit the Dalat flower gardens, head to their night market and indulge in some good food and you can even go canyoning! There’s a bit of everything here for everyone here. So if you’re going to Vietnam in 2019, Da Lat should be high on your list of places you’re going to.
2. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tourism in Georgia has been steadily rising over the past years, but has still not quite yet become as popular as many other European cities. It’s still a hidden gem and is a great starting point for traveling around Georgia. The dramatic mountains in the background makes Tbilisi one of the most beautiful capital cities in Europe. Nowadays, you can find everything from five-star hotels to more budget friendly hostels, bohemian bars, night clubs, galleries, plazas, museums and a charming architecture. They say that East meets West here because of the Ottoman, Mongol, Arab and Russian imperial forces whom each left their own cultural mark in Tbilisi. It’s truly a unique city that’s worth visiting before tourism takes over.
3. Tel Aviv, Israel
A city like none other, Tel Aviv has it all! Beautiful beaches, fun nightlife, cool bars, great food and a lively atmosphere. There’s always something to do here and you’ll never feel bored in this city. The weather is also a big plus, with mild temperatures all year round. But it’s recommended to travel here either during spring or fall, since summer is usually scorching hot and it can rain heavily during winter. Note that it will be especially crowded this summer since the Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Tel Aviv this May and prices will rise.
4. Porto, Portugal
If you haven’t been to Porto yet, this year is the perfect chance for you to see one of Portugal’s most beautiful cities. Porto is charming, unique, breathtakingly beautiful and has an authenticity that’s hard to find these days. It’s especially beautiful during summer time when the city comes to life and everyone’s sitting outside. Make sure to cross the bridge over to Vila Nova de Gaia, which is famous for producing port wine. Just before the sun is about to go down, go to Jardim do Morro, sit down with a cold beer and watch the sky turn orange, pink and red before it gets dark. It’s an unforgettable view.
5. Chefchaouen, Morocco
When people think of Morocco, they tend to think of Marrakech. But the country has so much more to offer and one of the most mesmerizing cities are called Chefchaouen. It’s no stranger to tourism though and if you have Instagram, you’ve probably seen photos from “The Blue City”. Some say that the city was painted blue because of the Jewish settlers who came here after the war, others say it’s painted blue to keep mosquitoes away. Whatever the truth is, it’s a stunning and unique city that’s definitely worth visiting in 2019. Chefchaouen is now an established tourist destination so you won’t have a problem finding hotels, hostels, foreign restaurants, etc. Although it might not be as easily accessible as Marrakech, it’s still very much worth the extra transportation time.
6. Cartagena, Colombia
Colorful, vibrant, funky and full of life, this incredible city has not gone unnoticed amongst travelers. The entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. With cobbled alleys, massive churches and buildings covered in bougainvillea, it’s not hard to see why so many people has been charmed by Cartagena. Immerse yourself in the rich history, theater and art that the city has to offer. If the heat gets overwhelming, you can head down to the beach Bocagrande. Although it’s not the prettiest beach in Cartagena, it’s easily accessible. But if you don’t mind going by boat, it only takes you around 40 minutes to get to Playa Blanca which has crystal clear water, white sand beaches and is an excellent place to relax when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cartagena and go for a swim. Take the opportunity this year to visit Cartagena – we promise you that you’ll fall in love.
