Top Holiday Destinations

As you’ve rolled over the calendar into a new year, it’s only natural that you’ll want to begin planning how to spend it. You probably have projects to complete at the office and a wedding or two on the books, but don’t forget to pencil in some of the top holiday destinations for 2012! It may seem odd to put an emphasis on your down time before you’ve really gotten cranking on your work for the next twelve months, yet you might be able to benefit from lower pricing now by booking early for your retreat during the warmer spring or summer months.

Wondering where to go? There are plenty of options and, with the Western economies wobbling or on the mend, you can probably get a great bargain, too. Here are some places to consider:

 

Top Holiday Destinations for 2012

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Greece
It’s no secret that this cradle of Western civilization has fallen on hard times in the last couple of years. This means there are a tremendous number of opportunities for you to take in some humanity’s finest architectural masterpieces at lower rates than you will in the future. The place to start is Athens, where you’ll be able to stroll through the Parthenon and wonder what stories its pillars could tell. From there, head out to Santorini or Mykonos to sample life on the Mediterranean. The blue-roofed towers and stark white walls provide a beautiful contrast against the rocky cliffs and turquoise waters below.

Spain

The Iberian peninsula will be a hot destination this year, owing to its devalued currency. Innkeepers and restauranteurs will be doing whatever they can to appeal to tourists, meaning you are the one who benefits most. Depending on your interests, you might spend time cycling through the mountains in Catalonia or stretching out in the sun on the Costa de la Luz. Of course, if you would prefer something a bit more cosmopolitan, you can always walk the streets of Barcelona or Madrid to soak up the gorgeous architecture and delicious Spanish cuisine.

Portugal

Though often overlooked when paired with its larger Iberian neighbor or put up alongside France or Italy, this tiny country has plenty to offer. Home to a bevy of excellent artists through the centuries, Lisbon, the capital, somehow maintains a classic charm despite its busy streets and growing population. You might choose to weave up the coastal road to Porto or, if you are committed to getting some peace away from your cares at home, grab a room on one of the country’s many islands. Madeira isn’t too far off the coast between Portugal and North Africa, but the best of the lot is the Azores – a small chain in the middle of the Atlantic with picturesque green mountains.

Maldives

You would be right to think of this chain of islands in the Indian Ocean as a honeymoon paradise, the resorts spread across its tiny islands are often the habitat for newlyweds in the mood for sun and sand as they start their lives together. That said, the rapidly-expanding tourism industry here has many hoteliers targeting families with larger bungalows and more expansive options for amenities. Regardless of which you’re in search of – relaxation or adventure – this is one of the best options you have anywhere in the world.