New year, new you – we’ve heard that one before. However, at the Gobus family of brands, we’re all about setting goals of a different kind; those that will take you to new places and fill you with pinch-yourself moments that you’ll want to re-live over and over again.
As a travel-lover, it only makes sense that ‘to see more’ is on your travel resolutions list. Even if you don’t consider yourself a city person, these destinations are sure to set your imagination wild. Discover something new – here are our top picks!
10. Marrakesh, Morocco
Packed with intrigue and wonder, Morocco’s ‘Red City’ is a different world that will have you feeling enchanted, enlightened and ready for adventure! Founded almost 1000 years ago, Marrakesh merges past and present so well it can be difficult to tell apart. Famous for its beautiful riads, shopping and a thriving medina, there’s a lot to fall in love with in this Moroccan city.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
For quirk, colour and creativity, Reykjavik (the world’s most northerly capital city) is a must! While the population of the city is small (only 120,000 people), what it lacks in people, it makes up for in culture. Only a 5 hour flight from New York City or 3 hours from London, there’s little reason why a trip to Iceland can’t be added to your next European or North American holiday!
8. Santiago, Chile
Nestled between the Andes and the coast, Chile’s capital and largest city is energetic, surprising and sophisticated. If you’re a lover of art, food, wine or nightlife, you’re sure to find something to please. With direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne, Santiago is the perfect city to start your Latin American travels.
7. Guilin, China
Located in the northeast of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in Southern China is Guilin, the city that is considered to be the pearl of China’s tourism industry. Famous for its karst landscapes, idyllic countryside and rural life, Guilin’s landscape has been described as ‘the best under heaven’.
6. Portland, USA
For craft beers, an expansive culinary landscape, quirky culture, forest hikes and so much more, Portland is the kind of city you visit and find yourself accidentally staying in long-term. With so much to explore, it’s easy to travel around the city on foot or bicycle. Oh, and no need to worry about the rain – locals will tell you it’s a bonus!
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain, Cape Town is a city with a mish-mash of cultures. While there is a plethora of ‘must see’ sites, the laid back vibe of the city will inspire you to venture the sites at your own pace.
4. Merida, Mexico
Known as the cultural capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida is a city steeped in colonial history. With narrow streets, broad central plazas and the region’s best museums, it’s the perfect place to explore and start your Yucatan state adventure.
3. Montreal, Canada
For European charm in North America, you need to visit Montreal. This French-speaking city is in love with festivals, arts, food and enjoying a good life. While the winter’s are cold, it’s always a good time to visit Montreal, in fact, they even have an underground city, making any time a good time to be outside!
2. Sofia, Bulgaria
Often overlooked by tourists, Bulgaria’s capital city Sofia is something special! Scattered with onion-domed churches and Ottoman mosques, there is plenty of unique architecture to enjoy, as well as Bulgaria’s best museums, galleries, restaurants and clubs. With so much on offer, and so few tourists around, you might just find yourself extending your stay to explore more!
1. Galway, Ireland
To experience real Irish pub life, you need to visit Galway. Brightly painted pubs bellow with live music, while restaurants and cafes offer the best front-row seats for watching buskers and street performers. Outside of the compact city square is a long promenade that takes you to the brightly coloured seaside suburb of Salthill on Galway Bay, the source of the area’s famous oysters.
Now’s the time to look at our Globus and Cosmos tours to check out some of these incredible cities!
