At this time of the year, chances are you’ve still got your full or at least most of your annual holiday allocation to play with. So, if like us, you’re already planning where you’d like to visit in 2018, you could probably use some wanderlust inspiration.
Lastminute.com has helpfully revealed its top 10 travel destinations for 2018.
Using their considerable knowledge and trusty predictions from their travel experts, they can tell us the fastest growing destinations this year and what people are searching for and booking in 2018.
Topping the country list, Namibia has seen a massive 56% increase in bookings this year with visitors seeking out the eerie shipwrecks of the famous skeleton coast and conservation-friendly safaris. Celebrating 100 years of independence next year, Georgia has seen bookings rise 41% since the increase in popularity for its wines and outdoor activities.
To help you max out that 2018 allowance, we’ve also recommended the best time to visit each destination – so you’re covered whatever month of the year you want to travel.
Lastminute.com’s top 10 destinations for 2018:
Namibia
Every year we hunt for destinations further off the beaten track, and this year, Namibia tops the most intrepid countries as the least densely populated in the world. Lastminute.com bookings were up 56% in 2017, with visitors flocking to book holidays along the famed skeleton coast.
Best time to visit: August – to avoid the rainy season and have the best wildlife spotting opportunities during the dry season
Georgia
Georgia is celebrating its 100 years of independence in 2018, so visitors can expect year long festivities along with fantastic winelands, cave monasteries, and Black Sea beaches. And, with bookings through lastminute.com up 41% in 2017, it’s set to be a big draw in 2018.
Best time to visit: September – to avoid the summer heat wave and winter freeze. September temperatures are perfect for exploring its beautiful landscapes comfortably
Montenegro
Reigo says: “While Croatia and Greece remain hugely popular in that region, we think this could be the dark horse in European holidays this year. Why? It’s got the most rugged mountains in Europe, countless UNESCO heritage sites, and some sparkling blue coves – Montenegro has our vote for next summer’s holiday.”
Best time to visit: July – to make the most of the hot weather and beautiful coves
Colombia
If you’re looking to uncover the secrets of Latin America, Colombia has to be the country of choice. Every year, more of the country is opened up to travellers who can explore the lofty Andes, crumbling pre-Hispanic ruins, colonial towns, and Amazonian jungle.
Best time to visit: February – to travel within its driest months and for the Barranquilla’s Carnival
Oman
Tourism is booming in Oman, and lastminute.com is seeing this with over 4,000 searches for holidays in 2018 already, with some of the world’s most luxury hotel chains opening their doors in the country. Head to the Musandam Peninsula for Arabia’s answer to the Norwegian fjords.
Best time to go: November – to avoid the scorching summer months and enjoy out of season fares
Isle of Man
With the staycation still trending as a top holiday choice, the lastminute.com UK destination of choice is the Isle of Man. Not just famous for its offshore tax credentials – with rolling moorlands, sandy beaches and a heritage railway line, it’s perfect for a family outdoor adventure holiday.
Best time to go: August – for the best weather and a cheaper family holiday destination during the school breaks
Cape Verde
While some of the Cape Verde islands are known as ideal winter sun destinations, there’s more to the islands than just all-inclusive resorts. lastminute.com bookings were up 34% for 2017 so if you’re looking to combine hiking with warm weather, head to the volcanic Santo Antão or farflung Fogo with its sparkling coves.
Best time to visit: December – for less rain, more pleasant temperatures and an alternative festive destination
Taiwan
lastminute.com’s experts have this year chosen Taiwan as the best place to get your Asian holiday fix. And for good reason. The country is full to the brim with tempting hot springs, dramatic mountains, busy night markets and three national parks.
Best time to visit: October – to avoid the monsoon and typhoon season
Mauritius
lastminute.com has seen a whopping 27,000 searches for holidays to the tropical island of Mauritius for 2018 already. As the country celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence next year, it’ll be the perfect time to visit its beautiful white sand beaches and join the celebrations.
Best time to visit: April – just outside of the peak season for cheaper fares but still great weather
New Zealand
With lastminute.com bookings up 23% in 2017, New Zealanders won’t have to get annoyed about being left off the map for much longer. And with 15 years since the last Lord of the Rings film, you’ll be itching to get over to New Zealand to relive the drama amid some of the world’s most stunning scenery.
Best time to visit: March – to visit during its most beautiful season, autumn
