For travellers, the end of the year is an exciting time. It means there’s an entire year ahead of you to fill with flights, tours, and brand new countries to visit!
The possibilities are endless: you simply have to decide where you want to go. But with so many places to choose from, planning your year of travel can become overwhelming. Thanks to Instagram, finding destination inspiration has never been easier
Based on Instagram’s top travel hashtags, influencer recommendations, and the highest trending hotspots in the world, here are the ultimate destinations for travel to in 2019.
Marrakech, Morocco
Chances are you’ve found yourself scrolling through the travel hashtags of Instagram, staring at amazing photos of colourful Morocco. Marrakech has become one of the most popular places on social media recently, and for good reason. From camel riding in the desert to exploring the winding streets and charming markets, you’ll have so much to do, and everything is beyond Instagram-worthy.
Iceland
For the last few years, Iceland has exploded in popularity, and 2019 shows no signs of slowing down! If you’re looking to capture some dramatic landscape photos or moody portraits, this is the place to be. From hiking up sleeping volcanoes to walking behind monstrous waterfalls, Instagram has fallen in love with Iceland, making it a must-see destination for anyone travelling in 2019.
Banff, Alberta
Whether you visit in the summer or winter, Banff is one of Canada’s most beautiful places. Lake Louise has become one of Canada’s most photographed places, and there’s no doubt every traveller wants to add that shot to their collection. The views of this charming resort town tucked beneath the Rocky Mountains are breathtaking, and a trip here is something that can’t be recreated anywhere else.
Petra, Jordan
We’ve all seen the photos of Petra, and the second we see them, we immediately want to book flights. Instagram has brought a breath of life to Jordan, showing off all the amazing things this stunning country has to offer. Bright desserts, amazing historical sites, and architecture like nothing else, Jordan and the site of Petra should definitely be on your to-do list this coming year.
Sri Lanka
There are so many things about Sri Lanka that make it wonderful, even the best Instagram photos can’t fully capture it. Rainforests, elephants, ancient Buddhist ruins, beaches, and safaris are all things you can anticipate on a tour through this tropical wonderland. The culture is rich, the people are friendly, and the wildlife is beyond unique. Plus, because it’s still gaining popularity, you may be the first of your friends to visit.
Positano, Italy
Chances are you’ve seen photos of this place, but didn’t know exactly where it was. Positano is an adorable and colourful Italian village clinging to the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Every angle of this village is photogenic, from the beaches to the mountains, and every pastel-coloured building in between. Everyone who visits says they wished they could have stayed longer, so maybe consider booking a one-way ticket.
Cairo, Egypt
While tourism in Egypt was once in a slump, it’s back and bigger than ever! Tourism in the country jumped over 77% in the first half of 2018, and Instagram had the photos to prove it. It’s the ultimate destination for anyone who craves adventure, ancient history, and photos that you literally cannot get anywhere else in the world. From the Sphinx to the pyramids, Cairo (and Egypt as a whole) should not be overlooked.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you’re looking for blue waters contrasting against bright orange clay roofs, Dubrovnik has you covered. This culturally rich paradise will help you create your own personal Mama Mia moment in Croatia, from days on the water sailing to nights on the town dancing. The food, the buildings, and the beaches are all perfect for getting those stunning Instagram photos you’ve been dreaming of, creating the ultimate feed for any budding traveller.
The Maldives
Searching for crystal clear water, endless white sand beaches, and adorable over-water villas? The Maldives is the place for you. Every corner of this island paradise is undoubtedly Instagramable, and thanks to increasing accessibility, it’s become much more affordable for your average traveller. Get ready for those sun-kissed beach photos you’ve been dreaming of because The Maldives has it all.
Joshua Tree, California
The landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park are almost alien, making it the perfect place for nature-loving travellers and photographers alike. Whether you camp in a tent or rent a cheeky trailer home, there are so many unique experiences to be had and memories to make. From day-hikes to stargazing, this gem in California has become one Instagram sensation you don’t want to miss out on.
Cappadocia, Turkey
There’s a 100% chance you’ve seen photos of the dream-like mountains of Cappadocia as you scroll through your Insta feed. The most beautiful photos of the year come from this hidden gem, particularly the seemingly unbelievable photos of the Turkish sky filled with hundreds of floating hot air balloons. The views of this otherworldly landscape are almost too good to be true, so you must visit it yourself and see it with your own eyes.
Cusco, Peru
Peru is home to one of the most photographed UNESCO sites in the world – Machu Picchu. But Instagram proved there is so much more to see and do in this exciting, bright, and proud city. From the city centre to the Sacred Valley, Cusco is a hub of culture, entertainment, and history. One night you can enjoy ancient ruins, and the next find a club for dancing. The possibilities are endless, yet totally perfect for The Gram.
Regardless of where your 2019 travels take you, your photos will be wonderful, your memories will be amazing, and your experiences will be unique. To make the planning process a bit easier, check out all the different tours TourRadar has to offer. There are so many different destination and travel styles to choose from, it’s like online shopping, but for travel!
Where are you planning to visit in 2019?
