TRAVEL GUIDE 2017

UPFRONT

10 EMERGING DESTINATIONS

Who doesn’t want to discover a new secret getaway for their next holiday? For this reason, we asked the team at Skyscanner to outline some of the less-visited places that are growing in popularity this year. 1 Reykjavik, Iceland 4 Sapporo, Japan 8 Tokyo, Japan

This walkable and urbane city boasts plenty of culture and art, along with famous geothermal pools, and magical surrounding tundras. The Northern Lights are said to be dimming, too, so catch them while you can.

Hokkaido’s biggest city is getting attention for its seafood, festivals, beer (at Japan’s oldest brewery) and more – not to mention world-class skiing. Come for the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, and ward off the chill in a hot spring. 5 Dunedin, New Zealand A picturesque South Island town founded in the Victorian era, Dunedin has a large Maori influence and plenty of Kiwi culture, and is a great base for tackling the nearby hiking and cycling trails of the dramatic Otago Peninsula. 6 Tiruchirapalli, India This Tamil town has thrived since ancient Roman times, and is renowned for its temples and monuments. Explore the Rock Fort and enjoy a picnic at Puliyancholai Falls. And don’t leave without tasting some authentic thosai ! 7 Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Why is the Japanese capital trending? Perhaps because it’s easier to navigate than ever before (or perhaps because Skyscanner has some great Tokyo deals!). Visit the imperial palace, head to Tokyo Skytree for views, then shop, dine and party in Shinjuku and Shibuya. 9 Hobart, Australia Cool stuff is happening on the island state of Tasmania, and its quaint capital is a charming base for venturing to the untamed back-country. There are historic waterfront restaurants and bustling markets, plus a striking modern art museum. 10 Zagreb, Croatia This ancient town is classical and fun. In winter, it’s a short drive to fantastic ski slopes; in summer, rent a bike to take in the sights. The squares and markets are quintessentially European, and the young people know how to have a good time.

2 Hua Hin, Thailand A getaway for Bangkok residents since the 1920s, Hua Hin’s beaches, water sports and humble seafood huts still beckon. Hua Hin Jazz Festival is another attraction, or charter a boat to Monkey Island to explore, fish and swim. 3 Paro, Bhutan Paro features classical

Don’t overlook Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s other big city, as it offers plenty and is a gateway to some wonderful wilderness. Aside from skyscrapers, including the 250m Tuntex Sky Tower, you’ll find a lovely harbour, and amazing shopping

Bhutanese architecture and temples, including Taktsang Monastery, the famous “Tiger’s Nest” retreat perched on a cliff. There isn’t much shopping beyond local markets, but there’s plenty of spiritual calm.

and dining.

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TRAVELGUIDE2017