Top 5 Vacation Destinations for 2015

It’s time to start thinking about planning your dream trip, but how can you possibly choose?

We looked for new shifts in vacation reservations, global happenings, and major developments to bring you the top 5 hottest Vacation Destinations for 2015.

1. Miami, Florida

Courtesy of: James Willamor

Miami has always been popular for its gorgeous beaches and over-the-top nightlife. Strolling the Art Deco streets of South Beach, relaxing poolside side with a refreshing mojito, shopping, or dancing the night away to some of the biggest acts in the world, a visit to Miami is all about FUN.

Between the white-hot Art Basel festival and the growing art-neighborhoods of Wynwood, Little River, and the Design District south Florida is earning a must-stop status on the global arts circuit. Going through a cultural revolution in the last decade Miami is home to new museums, performing art centers, the New World Symphony by Frank Gehry, and some fantastic music festivals. The culinary scene in Miami has soared to new heights; leading chefs and up-and-coming hopefuls dot the city with their delicious menus.

Courtesy of: Caroline Gagné

2. Palawan, Philippines

Courtesy of: Aleksandr Zykov

Widely regarded for its beauty, Palawan was named the Best Island in the World by Conde Nast Traveler in 2014. Sparsely populated, you can travel via bangkas (outrigger canoes capable of carrying up to 100 travelers) between fishing villages, tourist-friendly towns and a maze of uninhabited islands.

Home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. those who venture out here will find a marvelous and unexplored landscape of coves, beaches, lagoons and razor-sharp limestone cliffs that rise from crystal-clear waters. The islands white sand beaches are perfect for snorkeling, and regarded as some of the best places to scuba dive in Asia. With more direct flights added this year Palawan is sure to see more international visitors in 2015. Add Palawan to your bucket list!

Courtesy of: Aleksandr Zykov

3. San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Courtesy of: Bruce Thomson

Nicaragua is going through a tourism renaissance of sorts. Move over Costa Rica! The colonial cities, deserted beaches and lush rainforests still preserve their off-the-beaten-track charm. The Pacific fishing village of San Juan del Sur has something for everyone. Enjoy perfect waves, world-class sport fishing, Eco-tourism, or just snooze the day away on your hammock.

Head up north to the picture-perfect town of Granada, a scenic 1.5 hours drive. Stroll the colonial streets of one of the oldest cities in the Americas, eat in recently added local gourmet restaurants, taste excellent rum, and wake up to the smell of organic coffee. A short drive inland will take you to the edge of paradise in the eco-lodge & spa of Puerta del Cielo a must whenever you visit Nicaragua.
Courtesy of: Dylan Walters

4. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Courtesy of: Roberto Taddeo

Surrounded by Italy, Croatia, Hungary, and Austria, Slovenia is a small country that hasn’t really been discovered by tourists — yet. Expect to find great food, historic cities, and stunning landscapes, all for a fraction of what a typical Euro-vacation will cost.

Ljubljana, the capital, has charming European plazas, a quaint Old Town, beautiful bridges spanning the Ljubljanica River, and a historic castle that towers above the city. It is also one of the greenest and most livable capitals in Europe, with restricted car traffic leaving the city center free for pedestrians and cyclists. In the summer, cafes set up terrace seating along the river, lending the feel of a perpetual street party. It is also a great starting point to explore the surrounding areas, within a single day you can visit the Slovenian Adriatic coastline and high mountainous regions for a taste of both Mediterranean & Alpine climates.

Courtesy of: Jorge Láscar

5. Havana, Cuba

Courtesy of: darkroomillusions

Exploring the streets of Old Havana is like stepping back in time to a world of majestic pre-revolutionary buildings, classic cars, and the smell of home-cooking mixing with the sea breeze. With the USA and Cuba announcing their intentions to normalize relations & relaxing travel restrictions this small Caribbean country is on the forefront of many travelers’ mind.

With over 300 beaches from the resort town of Varadero to more secluded coast lines in Cayo Largo del Sur & Playa Ancon to the south there is a piece of paradise for everyone to enjoy. Havana is a mystery to most people — especially Americans. But it is a beautiful hub full of welcoming people. Travelers will find an abundance of music, art, historic architecture, and delicious food at this tropical capital.

Courtesy of: Jaume Escofet