Top destinations to Visit in 2013

One is always on the look-out for new destinations to visit to satisfy their wanderlust. From cultural havens to sightseeing delights, metro cities to emerging retreats, here we list some destinations that should be on your must-see places in 2013. Come explore.

Boracay Island, Philippines
If your idea of a holiday is having a laidback, relaxed time – then head to the beautiful Boracay Island where the powdery white sand beaches are as clean as clean can be and the water is bluer than ever. A well kept secret, though it has seen a large number of resorts come up in the last few years, Boracay is still not on the regular tourist beat, and has retained its exclusivity and beauty. So, go before Boracay Islands becomes just another beach destination!

Bratislava
Bratislava is emerging from the cold and is soon catching up with big brother Prague. The historic centre of the city is lively and has a palpable buzz to it. Cosy cafes spill onto the pavement, museums packed to the rafters with treasures keep the visitor enthralled, but even so the ugly Communist era apartment blocks on the periphery of the city serve as a reminder of difficult days. Nevertheless, the ‘little big city’, Bratislava has huge offerings for the tourist.

Dublin
Dublin is an interesting city to say the least. Quaint cobbled streets, medieval architecture, Victorian style pubs that seem to be caught in a time warp, a literary lineage and an effervescent people that have an all encompassing nature. Dublin may not have many ‘sights’ to speak of, but the atmosphere is electric and once you are there it is so easy to fall in love with the city. Let’s raise a glass of Guinness to that!

Hyderabad
Hyderabad is a city steeped in heritage, and though we featured it in our last year’s list, it once again finds its place on our list of top destinations this year. A city of character: from the sprawling ramparts of the Golconda fort, to the very busy Charminar area and the history behind the magnificent Chowmalla Palace, Hyderabad is bound to seduce you. There is much more to Hyderabad than meets the eye – it’s about museums with fabulous collections, the most delicious biryani and the near perfect pearls…but what remains with you long after you have left this beautiful city is the gentility of the Hyderabadi people!

Montreal
A little English and a lot more French, you may be forgiven if you think you are in the heart of France when in Montreal! Montreal is a city with an atmosphere of its own – friendly, romantic, historical and lively. There is delightful mix of the old and the new and the joie de vivre of the people is infectious. Come and you may never want to leave!

Myanmar
Golden-spire pagodas rise up to welcome you when your airplane circles over Yangon to make a smooth landing. In Yangon the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda stands out, glorious 1000 year old temples dominate the skyline at Bagan as Ayeryarwaddy River snakes its way down the surroundings of legendary Mandalay. Warm people, exquisite handicrafts, precious blood red rubies and the aromas of delicious Burmese food wafting in the streets, Myanmar has remained mystical till now. Come and unravel the mystery of Myanmar!

Namibia
So why does Namibia figure on our must visit list this year? Spectacular natural beauty, abundant wildlife, stunning canyons, idyllic Bavarian villages with a distinct African ambiance, the unusual Namib Desert are only the tip of the iceberg. We could go on, but need we say more? Your question will be more than satisfactorily answered when you visit Namibia. Of that we are sure.

Portland, USA
Move over Seattle – Portland is here! One of the most beautiful cities on the western seaboard of the USA, Portland has all the ingredients that go towards making it one of the best destinations to visit in 2013. It earns its sobriquet of ‘City of Roses’ from the many parks and gardens and the snow capped Mt. Hood watches over the city like a protector. Culture abounds in the many theaters and bookshops, outdoor enthusiasts can hike and bike in the sylvan surroundings and after a fruitful day, take refuge and have fun in the many bars, downing a variety of the nation’s best beers!

Seoul
Over the last couple of years Seoul has slowly but surely found its place on the tourist map. A city where the old and the new co exist, where history and modernity complement each other, Seoul maybe a city on the fast track, but is also a city that has tremendous respect for its cultural heritage and with a warm and welcoming people. Come and discover the soul of Seoul!

Sri Lanka
The emerald isle in the Indian Ocean is Sri Lanka. Aromatic spice plantations, pretty sceneries, pristine beaches, architecturally beautiful temples, delicious cuisine and shopping that is unbelievably affordable- this is only some of what Sri Lanka has on offer. The rest you will have to come and unearth. Pleasant surprises lurk around every corner, so get ready to go on a serendipitous trip to Sri Lanka.