5 Countries for Your 2016 Bucket List

As 2015 draws to a close, we look towards 2016 and the opportunities it may bring. Those with itchy feet however will already be planning their next holiday in the search of sun, fun, culture and experiences. Here are 5 countries that we believe you should consider for your (or one of your) 2016 getaways:

1. Italy

What can be said about Italy that hasn’t been said before? The historic European nation is a melting pot of culture, history, art, cuisine, and tremendous scenery and is home to the most World Heritage sites on the planet. The historical destinations are endless with many of them being found it the beautiful capital of Rome. However, the countryside and the scenic Sicilian islands are also something to behold. Some of the world’s most beloved cities can be found in Italy such as Venice, Napoli, Florence, Milan, Verona, Turin, Bologna, Genoa, and Perugia. Italy is ideal for family trips and those with romance on their mind, and nothing is more romantic than your own private villa in Italy. You can also explore the country in a different manner by exploring it via a camping and hiking holiday.   

2. Burma

The diverse Asian nation of Burma and Myanmar are one and the same as the name was changed to the latter by some in 1989. There are thousands of Buddhist temples across the land as well as some of Asia’s most fascinating scenery. The history of old empires is among the richest in the world and their traditions and cultures can still be witnessed today. The nation features 1,200 miles of coastline along the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea which has resulted in dozens of exceptional beaches and fishing towns. The scenery is also dotted with impressive mountain ranges, lush jungle land, river systems and fertile valleys. Some of the most-populated and intriguing centres to visit include Mandalay, Bagan, Mawlamyine, Naypyidaw, and the capital of Yangon, which was formerly known as Rangoon.     

3. Spain

The Kingdom of Spain has some tremendous locations to visit such as the capital city of Madrid along with Seville, Barcelona, Alicante, Valencia, Burgos, Girona, Toledo, Bilbao, Malaga, and Zarazoga. The Mediterranean country also borders the Atlantic Ocean to the north and is home to some fabulous islands such as the Canary, and Balearic Islands. Due to its proximity to Africa and European location, Spain has been influenced by different traditions and cultures, but has also influenced many different areas of the globe itself. Spain is known for its picturesque and diverse scenery, mountain ranges, sandy beaches, and might rivers. The nation possesses a colourful history which can be explored via its numerous museums, historic sites, cathedrals, monuments, castles, parks, churches, and architecture as well as the cuisine, literature, arts, and music. Visitors will find 40 different UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, which ranks second in the world behind Italy.

4. Namibia

Namibia, which enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, sits in the south of the African continent with the west coast of the nation bordering the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Windhoek is the largest city as well as its capital while other major centres include Arandis, Luderitz, Walvis Bay, Omaruru, Oshakati, Gobabis, Swakopmund, Tsumeb, Rundu, and Katima Mulilo. Bushmen from the Namib Desert have inhabited the land for centuries and the former German and South African colony gained its independence in 1990. Namibia is ideal for those who like to take their time while traveling as it’s one of the world’s least-densely populated countries. Namibian safari holidays are relaxed and the country possesses a wealth of natural wonders that can be enjoyed. One of its most well known sites is the Kalahari Desert, but there are also other fabulous places to visit such as the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the Caprivi Strip, Fish River Canyon, Etosha Pan and the Skeleton Coast Park.

5. Portugal

Fabulous food, gorgeous golf courses, soft silky beaches, stunning scenery, charming fishing villages, and historic sites such as churches, palaces, castles, and museums make up Portugal. This splendid European nation has everything a visitor could ask for. Portugal offers a relaxed and cultured way of life that is steeped in the nation’s storied history. Each region offers something unique for travellers with Oporto and the capital of Lisbon being the most-popular cities. One of the best ways to see everything the land has to offer is to rent a car and discover as much as possible. The southern Algarve region is known for its fabulous ocean views and beaches while the Lisbon area serves up paradises such as Sintra and Estoril. Walking the ancient cobblestone streets of this glorious destination is a treat that simply shouldn’t be missed.