Top 12 cities to visit in 2015
There are so many amazing places in the world to visit that narrowing it down can be quite the chore. As 2015 draws nearer, we’ve managed to comb through the coolest spots in the world, with the best attractions, accommodations, culture and life for your perusing. Plan your 2015 calendar around these places and you won’t be disappointed.
In January visit Chamonix, France
If you want an extreme start for this new year, visit Chamonix, where the unofficial town slogan is ‘you fall, you die’. Renowned for its steep slopes, Chamonix is the birthplace of extreme skiing. If hurdling down a mountain isn’t your thing though, don’t worry, you can enjoy the cobblestone streets and picturesque scenery instead. Always remember to review your travel policy’s PDS before participating in extreme sports to ensure your activity is covered and consider choosing the ski travel insurance plan.
In February visit Kumasi, Ghana
Shop ’till you drop in one of the biggest markets in West Africa. Come to Kumasi, Ghana for 10,000 stalls of hand-made artisanal goods, beautifully-preserved historic sites, and world-renowned museums. You may come for the history, shopping and general atmosphere, but you’ll stay for the friendly people. Ghanaians are often called the friendliest people in Africa, so enjoy the company and the place while you’re there.
In March visit Cappadocia, Turkey
Experience the otherworldly beauty that is Cappadocia’s honeycombed hills from high up in the sky inside a big balloon. This region of Turkey is a truly a hot air balloon lover’s dream. Experience the thrill of an early-morning balloon ride or hike around the city’s geological anomalies for a truly unique experience and perspective.
In April visit Washington, D.C., USA
See the cherry blossoms in the US capital city, and even attend a festival focused on the flowers. Tour the country’s most historic monuments and maybe have a sandwich with the President (who knows where he’ll pop up, right?). This city was voted Lonely Planet’s top travel destination for 2015, and it will not disappoint. With beautiful April temperatures, you will never want to leave this cherry-scented town.
In May visit Vienna, Austria
Celebrate 150 years of culture, beauty, and Hapsburg monarchial achievements in Vienna this May. Visit the Ringstraße, Vienna’s grand boulevard, for special celebrations. While you’re in town, see the many cathedrals and museums that make this city a cultural icon. The city opera house and the Wiener Riesenrand (or 'Viennese giant wheel'—a giant Ferris wheel) are attractions you must not miss.
In June visit Salisbury, United Kingdom
History buffs will find Salisbury has all they need this summer. Celebrate the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta in this city while exploring nearby Stonehenge. Walk around the quaint town and take in all of the history and mystery this charming English village has to offer.
In July visit King Salmon, Alaska, USA
Head to the wild this July to view the American grizzly bear. Alaska has some of the best wildlife-viewing opportunities and outdoor treasures in the world. Visit Katami National Park and hike some of the 4.2 million (yes 4.2 million.) acres of wild land. Get up close and personal with bears when you watch them fish in the river, a coveted activity in the park. Speaking of fish in the river, don’t hesitate to drop a line in the water yourself—the fishing in Alaska is amazing, as the grizzlies can attest to.
In August visit Hordaland, Norway
Troll’s Tongue (known locally as Trolltunga) is not for those who have problems with height. Trolltonga is a piece of rock that hangs out of a mountain a full 600m up in the air. If you aren’t afraid of heights, this should be your August hiking destination. The trail is for the ultimate thrill seeker and is only open to the public from mid-June to mid-September.
In September visit Tokyo, Japan
If you are crazy about anime or street fashion, visit this hyper-animated city. See the autumn foliage and make a trip to Tokyo Disneyland, or perhaps the Meiji Shrine. Whatever you choose to do, it is impossible to be bored on the vibrant, future-focused streets of Tokyo.
In October visit Page, Arizona, USA
Antelope Canyon—often called 'The Crack' or 'The Corkscrew'—is a slot canyon in the American Southwest. A different landscape and different culture can be found in this natural wonder. Experience the ethereal beauty of its colours while learning about the Navajo Native American Nation. There are a number of museums and exhibits in this area that honour the Navajo Native Americans so you can beef up on their lasting cultural impact on the United States.
In November visit Baños, Ecuador
At the very edge of Ecuador, there is a tree house. That tree house overlooks an active volcano. On that tree house overlooking that volcano, there is a swing. There is no harness or guarantee of safety, but if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for the experience of a lifetime, visit Baños for one of the best views (and rushes) you’ll ever have.
In December visit Kaikoura, New Zealand
There’s no place like home for the holidays. Visit Kaikoura to surf your way through Christmas Eve. New Zealand has long been applauded for its amazing adventure sports opportunities, so why not take advantage of them yourself? Kayak out to see whales, dolphins and seals. Bonus: that surfboard you asked Santa, for now, has a purpose.
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Images courtesy of Flickr users Jarle L. Grindhaug, Phil Chambers, Ignaz Wanders, Moyan Brenn, Leo Boudreau, Filippo Marroni, Graham Dean, Hannah Cohen, Patrick Gensel, Marcus C. Mason, John, Rinaldo Wurglitsch and James Woodward