Douro River Valley, Portugal
Vineyards, castles, and monasteries -- oh my! Port wine
gets its name from this locale and you can find world-renowned wines here.
There are also plenty of historical sites to see. Cruise the river, experience
the riverfront, or choose a stay with seaside terraces for breathtaking views.
Black Sea Region
This coastal region includes parts of Turkey, Ukraine,
Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia, and Russia. Whether you choose to cruise the Black
Sea and its 17 ports along the coast, or take it in from your hotel's rooftop
bar, you are sure to enjoy its beauty.
Puebla, Mexico
This is the place to visit if you are looking to break
out of the "party" atmosphere that dominates many tourist spots in
Mexico. With live bullfights, an outdoor market along colonial stone streets,
an active volcano, and rich art in the form of murals and architecture, you'll
definitely want to spend an extended vacation here.
Nicaragua, Central America
With 37 miles of beaches and perfect waves, it's no
mystery why this spot is so popular with surfers! Whether you choose a private
beach villa or an exclusive resort, you're sure to enjoy a "carefree
luxury" stay.
Myanmar
At the northern border of Thailand, you'll find high-end
boutique hotels and cultural landmarks. This spot has been steadily gaining
popularity with American travelers since its political climate has become more
favorable.
Hainan
Projected by travel experts to be one of the world's
leading tourist destinations by 2021, this international Riviera is located off
the southern coast of China. The city of Sanya features ultra-high-end hotels
and resorts, including future plans for an Atlantis resort.
Tanzania
Take a safari in the Serengeti! See zebras and
wildebeests in their natural habitat during the day and return to your luxury
hotel at night. Or, take a walk on the really wild side -- there is a tented
camp located in the Serengeti National Park.
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
White sand and blue water made this the perfect location
for The Bachelor in 2013. You can take a diving expedition to explore
reefs, wrecks, or one of only three underwater museums in the U.S. Or, if you
prefer, experience championship golf. This island features 18th century
architecture and botanical gardens, as well as the Cruzan Rum Distillery.
Great news for travelers who hate layovers -- you can
take a direct flight to Samana. Resorts feature access to beachfront, a lagoon
created by a fresh water spring that runs down from the mountains to the ocean,
as well as exclusive swimming pools, a spa, restaurants and bars, water sports,
a playground for the kids, horseback riding, tennis courts, and bike trails.
The family won't want to leave, even if it is a nonstop flight.
Curacao
The setting for 2012's The Bachelorette, this
Dutch-European cultured Caribbean island is located 40 miles off the coast of
Venezuela. It belongs on your list because of its "sophistication,
ecotourism and pristine diving conditions."
Are you ready to have an adventure this year and visit
one of these incredible destinations? I would love to help you plan the trip of
a lifetime! For more information about any of these locations feel free to send
me an email at bryan@operationdestination.com.
