Top Destinations for 2017

Many of us sit down at this time of year to draw up our wishlists for gifts, the presents we hope to see when we unwrap the boxes under the tree. This year I decided to list out a different type of wishlist - my top destinations for 2017. This is the first time in as long as I can remember that I don't have any travel plans booked for the upcoming year. It's scary, yet liberating. The world is quite literally, my oyster. I have a sneaking suspicion that my year of travel might keep me closer to home than I had originally anticipated, what with the new job and all, but hey, a girl can dream.

Here are my top destinations according to both personal interest and the trend factor for 2017. These aren't just on my radar, they are the ones that should be on YOUR radar as well. Since I'm now working for an incredible tour operator, I decided to list the top G Adventures Tour that corresponds with that particular destination. Keep in mind though that any of my thoughts on this page (or another on this site) are mine and do not reflect that of my employer.

Colombia

Colombia is a red-hot destination these days, and it's a truly emerging travel spot. If you want to get in on the (relatively) ground floor, go soon. Things are changing, and becoming a bit easier for the average traveler, but it's still relatively raw. From charming and colorful Cartegena is beautiful, energetic and exotic Bogota, Colombia is a lush and exotic destination just waiting to be explored. You may still need to pay close attention and be aware of your surroundings, but it's becoming much more accessible to travelers by the minute. Don't forget to brush up on your Spanish, too!

Top Tour: G Adventures' Colombia Express. A 9-day itinerary that hits Cartegena, Santa Maria, Medellin and Bogota, among others.

Japan

Brad has been begging to go to Japan. As expensive of a destination that it is, I don't blame him. It's got crazy metropolitan cities and a unique natural beauty coupled with delicious food. He's a huge fan of sushi (I am not, but I try different places with him because I love him) and the Japanese culture as a whole. It would mean the world to him if we went to Japan. Since he's traveled to several places that he wasn't super keen on for my bucket-list (and ended up loving, by the way), I suppose I should opt for one of his must-see travel destinations. Relationships, you know - all about compromises.

Top Tour: G Adventure's 9-Day Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo. A quick but well-rounded exploration of Japan including visits to Osaka, Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Mt. Fuji.

South Africa

Africa is on my bucket-list, but with a goal attached to it. I've made it a personal mission to explore at least one African nation before I turn the ripe old age of 30. My first travel fam trip (sales trip) was with several agents who had been in the industry for years. If I even for a second thought I was as well traveled as they were, well, I was very, very wrong. They all spoke of Africa as the place that changed them. The place that opened up their eyes, hearts and minds. That's what I love about travel. You think you have it all figured out, then all of a sudden a destination changes you and makes you feel something completely different. That's why I think South Africa should be the first stop if you're heading to Africa for the first time. The stunning natural beauty mixed with wine and cheese tastings PLUS incredible game?!? Where do I sign up?

Tour Tour: G Adventures' 13-Day Cape Town, Kruger & Zimbabwe. This tour hits the highlights for anyone wanting to visit Southern Africa for the first time - Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger NP and Victoria Falls.

East Coast of Canada

Canada is tres hot right now. 2017 is the 150th anniversary of Canada (woo-hoo!), and there's a lot of buzz around the friendly nation as a destination (Thank you Lonely Planet for naming it the #1 place for 2017 travel!). All of the National Parks will have free entrance throughout the year, so you can bet your bottom dollar that many people will be taking advantage of this savings. The Rockies already have a ton of interest, but with limited supply, most of the hotels are already sold out. I'd suggest considering visiting the East Coast and doing a road trip. Seafood, small towns and friendly people abound in these areas, and it's super easy to navigate and explore by car.

Top Tour: G Adventures doesn't have an East Coast tour (yet?) so I'd recommend doing your own tour, renting your own car and staying at some of the charming small properties throughout PEI, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and even Newfoundland.