January is half way through and the tips are in for where you are headed this year, hint this list will throw you a little off the beaten track, are you ready for an adventure? Is your next holiday on the hot for 2020 list? See the verdict below.
1. Galapagos, Ecuador
Awe inspiring above and below the sea; one thousand kilometres off the coast of Ecuador lies an archipelago, that takes you back in time. There is a total of 19 islands in the group, creating an island dot to dot, of little islets and rocks scattered between the seas, that covers 45,000 square kilometres. Each island showcases its own unique ecosystem and collection of species both flora and fauna. The islands of the Galapagos are a true display of evolution by natural selection. With the same species of animal, having different variations and adaptations from island to island. Discover lava tunnels, sinkholes, lake and secluded beaches scattered across the islands. Whilst spotting yourself some unique wild life.
2. Tromsø, Norway
Be captivated by the glow of the Northern Lights, Tromsø one of the most popular places to observe the coloured skies. Book into a glass igloo and watch the sky show perform from the warmth of your bed. Aside from being the it place to catching the show at night, Tromsø a vibrant fishing village, that looks as though it had been pulled from the pages of a storybook. Wander the marketplace and fisherman monument and hear tales of explorers, and hunters on a trip to the Polar Museum, and don't forget a visit to the World's most Northern cathedral.
3. Dahab, Egypt
When you think Egypt you think Pyramids, yes? Well we have news for you, there is so much more to the country of sand! How about a diving safari in the Red Sea, discovering the famous Bells Blue Hole. The Blue Hole is a 130metre deep submarine sink hole in the middle of an expansive coral reef, explore the rainbow surface coral with a snorkel and goggle, spot tuna, trevallies and fusiliers or dive to the depths and see what is really hiding down in the deep sea. But Dahab doesn't stop showing off there, venture out into the wilderness of the Sinai Desert, and explore its many canyons, oases and plateaus.
4. Naxos Island, Greece
An unspoilt Greek island? We know what you're saying, "that doesn't exist" but the relatively unknown Naxos island in Greece is the hidden secret you will be telling all your friends about. Commonly called the jewel of the Aegean crown this paradisiacal island is a real crown pleaser. Although the largest of the Cyclades island, Naxos is often overshadowed by its world famous neighbours Mykonos and Santorini. Naxos holds a different allure, of laid back vibes attracting those seeking a peaceful and quite escape with a sprinkling of Greek culture and history. Not to mention the big dose of nature the island boasts with fertile valleys, some of the finest beaches in the Cyclades and is an island rich in agriculture and dripping in tradition. The entire island is crisscrossed with hiking trails and Naxos' main town, Chora, is brimming with refined Venetian architecture, evidence of three centuries of Venetian rule.
5. Kandy, Sri Lanka
A pinnacle of the Sri Lankan golden triangle, is the hill capital of Kandy. An eclectic town steeped in tradition, home to the National Museum Kandy is a destination to get your heritage fix with a twist. The city centre is marked by the epic Kandy Lake that is lined by trees, offering a little shade for a walk. The stubborn mist clings to the hills that circle the lake and a delicate breeze flows through the town down the streets lined with colourful houses and colonial-era architecture.
6. Bagan, Myanmar
At the centre of the rich Myanmar cultural is Bagan, the ancient temple town that was once the capital of a powerful kingdom of the past. Seemingly half-ruined, half-built or nudging restoration, the temples are a sight to behold. Best seen from the sky the most popular way to explore Bagan is by hot air balloon, find yourself floating over the countryside, where ancient temples appear scattered across the 26 square kilometre grassy site. It is hard to say how many there once were, but it is estimated there was once up to 4,000 temples here dating back over 1,500 years making it Asia's greatest concentration of ancient architecture and art.
