With the world travel industry in chaos, 2016 is shaping up to be an interesting year for travelers. From wars to plane crashes, travelers are confused about where to go and not. After covering 17 countries in 2015, I’ve compiled a list of the best destinations for 2016 travel to get you started in the right direction. These picks are in no particular order and were selected based on recent travel availability, affordability, and activities. Each one has something very unique to offer and if you’re able to visit them all I’ll encourage you to do so.

Mexico

Mexico’s reputation has been tainted by depictions of violence by western media. With a new focus on tourism in 2015, Mexico has made a huge leap in the tourism sector by not only addressing security concerns but by catering to clients looking for the finer things in life. With a vibrant culture and diverse natural landscape, Mexico offers a bit of everything guest would like. From the Mariachis of Guadalajara to the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá, Mexico is a must visit in 2016.

What To Do: Visiting Chichén Itzá is a must while in Mexico. Seek out an authentic Mariachi band and enjoy the sounds of this rhythmic country. In Mexico, they aren’t hard to find given their cultural prevalence.

 

Budapest

Located somewhere between tradition and modernity, Budapest occupies a rarified space in Europe. A space where the modern west crashes into the traditional east. Where skyscrapers are still a sight to behold but Starbucks are not. This is Budapest, the City of Healing Waters. Perfectly blending tradition and modernity. For years, Budapest has gradually worked their way into the conversation for the best European city. Simply by sticking to what they do best. Culture, Food, and History. 2016 will be their breakout year.

What To Do: Absolutely visit Szechenyi Baths. A wonderful way to let off some steam. Also, head up to Gellert Hill for the most spectacular views you’ll find of Budapest. A river cruise along the Danube will give you a special look at the Buda and Pest sides of this wonderful city. Try some of the excellent Hungarian wines as you do.

 

South Africa

South Africa will forever be etched in history as an example of oppression and liberation. Of progress and change. South Africa should also be known for its beauty. South Africa has long been one of the planet’s most beautiful and diverse countries. Offering everything from surfing on the coast to mountain climbing in the south. South Africans have a spirit of resilience and hospitality that rivals any other peoples. This spirit, natural beauty, and commitment to service places South Africa at the forefront of Luxury destinations for 2016.

What To Do: South Africa has a wide range of wonderful destinations. We recommend you visit Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Check out Table Mountain in Cape Town for stunning views. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. And visit the markets in Durban. Especially the Indian Spice Market in the Victoria Street Markets. You can never go wrong with a wildlife Safari.

 

Adriatic Coast of Italy

As any Italian not from Rome, Milan, or Venice will tell you, this tourist haven straddling the Mediterranean has far more to offer than the typical hot spots. Particularly on their eastern coast. 2016 will see several tourism campaigns directed at promoting and exploring alternative destinations in Italy. The Marche and Puglia regions are seeing a huge resurgence in popularity.

What to Do: Skip the big name destinations and head over to the east coast. Marche, Abruzzo, and Puglia offer a unique look into Italian history and present day culture. This will not only get you away from the crowds of Rome and Venice but help you save quite a bit of money.

 

The Philippines

For decades, The Philippines have been overshadowed by their Southeast Asian neighbors. Tourist flock to Singapore, Thailand, and Cambodia while skipping this wonderful country altogether. Well finally, the Philippines has carved out their own identity and put it on full display for the world to see. Recently awarded the 2nd best food country by CNN, The Philippines not only offers great culinary experiences but cultural ones as well. You’ll regret missing this amazing destination.

What To Do: Boracay has some of the world’s most beautiful water and beaches. Simply stunning. As a foodie, I would be remiss not to mention exploring the Manila food scene. As mentioned above, this is some of the world’s best food. And very affordable.

Southern Chile

I’ve had a love-hate relationship with Chile since 2012. Especially the capital city of Santiago. But one thing that’s never changed is my absolute love for everything south of Santiago. Southern Chile is simply magnificent. Beautiful beaches, lush national parks, Volcanoes, and the new 8th Wonder of the World. Patagonia. After years of political back and forth, the US and Chile finally removed the reciprocity fee which saw tourist paying $160 to enter the country. With that gone Chile has once again become a must travel destination.

What To Do: The best way to see Southern Chile is by road. A road trip from Santiago to Patagonia will take you through some of the best wine-producing regions in the world. Stop and grab a bottle or two. You can also visit the lake district with some of the bluest waters you’ve ever seen. If you time it right, you can whale watch in Puerto Madryn before hiking through Torres Del Paine.

Are any of these on your 2016 travel list? Have you been to any? What destination did I leave off?