Travel bloggers get around more than most folks. Not surprisingly they know all the good spots to go.
That’s why in trying to plan my travels for the upcoming year, I asked some of my favorite travel bloggers (and the industry’s finest) for their Top Travel Destinations for 2013:
Eduardo’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Why ? Well, I’ve never been to Canada, and it is an intriguing country that really attracts me. In all the (American) TV shows they portrait Canada as this dull country where nobody shoots at each other and where people walk in the street, which makes it even more attractive. But seriously, Canada is a country with a great mixture of East and West, friendly people and a passion for nature and the wilderness that really should be an example to other countries. Vancouver and Toronto are top of my list. Fingers crossed …
(My note: As a Canadian I assure you that Canada is NOT a dull country and definitely worth of being on a “top” anything list).
Leigh’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Sierra Nevada del Cocuy – a mountain range in Colombia
Hike Bike Travel @HikeBikeTravel
Lagoon, glacier & devil’s pulpit in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. Photo courtesy of aandres on Flickr.
One of my biggest adventures planned for 2013 includes a six day trek through the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy – a range of mountains in Colombia close to the Venezuela border. They have been called the most beautiful mountains in all of South America that no one has ever heard about. I don’t quite know what I’ve got myself into as it will just be my husband and I plus our guide.
(My note: Can I come with you? This is my idea of a dream trip!)
Andrea’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Marseille, France
Rear View Mirror @destinationeu
Photo courtesy of Andrea – Rearview Mirror
Marseille is often an overlooked destination in France but the Mediterranean city has great weather, beautiful beaches and the historic Vieux Port. Marseille’s diverse culture influences the local food which is a mix of traditional French, North African and Mediterranean cuisines. In 2013, Marseille is the European Capital of Culture so you can expect to see many great events held throughout the year making it a great time to visit.
(My note: I love France, but haven’t been to Marseille yet, and with it being the European Capital of Culture this year, it’s a great time to visit).
Mariana’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Denmark
Denmark photo courtesy of Mariana from TravelThirst
A country with a quite perfect scenario. As I road tripped Denmark this year, I only found good qualities all over the place. Culture, nature, landscapes (one of the most unusual and outstanding ones I have ever enjoyed). Not to mention every single taste from a simple yet rich diet of theirs; or its kind and educate people. Even sounds: from authentic local music up to the sound of silence, of wind, of a fresh sigh anywhere. Denmark really marked me within all 5 senses. Which to me is the clue to a top travel destination spot.
(My note: I’ve been there and would have to agree!)
Isabel’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Uganda
Diaro de a bordo @Diarodeabordo
Gorilla photo taken in Uganda by Isabel from Diaro de a bordo
Forgotten by travelers by its political conflicts in the past decades, Uganda is rising as a brand new destination to visit in Africa. Although its National Parks can not offer the same amount of feline species as the ones in neighboring countries, Uganda can offer you a one in a lifetime experience: tracking the few mountain gorillas that remain in the planet. However, Uganda has much more to offer: the source of the river Nile, outstanding landscapes and charming people unspoiled by tourism.
(My note: If I had to choose just one trip, this would be it, hands down! I would chew off my right arm to see gorillas in the wild).
Marlys and Michael’s Top Travel Destination of 2013: Seville, Andlucia, Spain
easyhiker @easyhiker101
In the gardens of Alcazar in Sevilla, photo courtesy of Marlys and Michael from easy hiker.
Seville, the capital city of Andalucia, may be a “second division” city compared to top drawers like Paris, London and Barcelona, but is definitely a must-visit destination for 2013. They say this is where tapas were first served. The influence of the Moors in the city’s architecture, as evidenced by the tile works everywhere, constantly provides visitors with delightful surprises – on the pavements, the walls and even on balconies.
(My note: After being to Catalonia four times in 2011, which I love, it’s time to check out a different part of Spain and Seville would be perfect!)
Sophie’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Oslo, Norway
Frogner Park, Oslo, Norway. Photo by Sophie from Sophie’s World
I especially recommend the long, white nights of summer, when the sun is up until 11 pm and the temperature hovers around 20 – 25 °C – perfect! It’s reflected in people’s temperament as well: come May, locals throw away most of their inhibitions (and their clothes). Nature is Oslo’s main asset – and it’s almost free! 15 minutes by public transport takes you to the hills and forest surrounding town or to the many islands in the Oslofjord.
(My note: I know very little about Norway, but the islands sound especially intriguing and I’m used to the nakedness after living in Germany).
Mary’s Top Travel Destination for 2013: Southern California
The World is a Book @WorldBookTravel
Laguna Beach, California. Photo courtesy of Mary from The World is a Book
Southern California is large region that includes the popular cities of Los Angeles and San Diego and offers something for everyone of all ages satisfying varying interests. This top destination has beautiful scenery and blessed with mild, pleasant weather, miles of beaches and plenty of sunshine for year-round outdoor activities. The ethnically diverse area also features many cultural museums, neighborhoods, national parks and historical attractions. Known as the entertainment capital of the world and home to Hollywood and many theme parks including enchanting Disneyland also makes this a top destination whether traveling solo or with a family.
(My note: I haven’t spent nearly enough time in Southern California, but what’s not to love.)
Cathy’s Top Travel Destination of 2013: Hawaii
Traveling with Sweeney @TravelingwithS
Sunset in Hawaii photo courtesy of Cathy from Traveling with Sweeney
Visiting a tropical paradise is enticing to almost everyone and Hawaii certainly fits that description. The Hawaiian Islands also have sentimental value for us because we spent our honeymoon and 10th anniversary on Kauai and have enjoyed Maui and the Big Island on other trips. I love the first sensation of the balmy breezes and fragrant exotic flowers. It’s been several years since we’ve had a chance to go back, so we’re really looking forward to our 2013 trip to Maui and Molokai. Although we are planning on active outdoor activities, scenic drives, exploring sites and cultural experiences, Hawaii is also a perfect destination for getting away from computers and smartphones to “hang loose” for a while. Aloha!
(My note: I haven’t been to Hawaii since I was a kid, and that was only to Oahu. I would love to check out some of the other islands as Cathy did.)
A very special thank you to all of the above travel bloggers for taking time from your busy travel schedules to share your top travel picks for 2013 with us.
