Travel

The Top Travel Destinations For 2019, According To Travel Experts

If you're like me, you're already creating a travel bucket list for 2019. And because I'm a sucker for a unique destination at a reasonable price, I've linked up with Airbnb to check out some of their top destinations to visit next year.

They range from locations that are re-emerging after natural disasters, to spiritual heartlands and vehicle-free islands with must-see beaches and wildlife. Airbnb's trend expert, Ali Killam shared, "As we approach the year's end, we started looking ahead to our guests' travel plans for the new year. Based on a combination of Airbnb research, booking and wish list growth data, we are once again forecasting growing interest in more off-the-beaten-path regions, cities and towns to explore, such as Kaikoura, New Zealand, Calabria, Italy and Accra, Ghana."

Based on booking data, she added that "wellness, food and one-of-a-kind art immersions are really resonating with travelers for 2019." So get ready to book that flight, there's something for everyone on this list:

1. Xiamen, China:

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Traditional Chinese pavilion in Xiamen, China

This vehicle-free island located on the southeast coast of China has seen a 283 percent increase in bookings. The port city is perfect for urban hipsters who enjoy bicycling, skateboarding, cool museums, and bookstores. Try a seafood dish, take a bread baking class, or go on a pub crawl. The weather tends to be mild all year, making it an ideal tourist destination.

2. Puebla, Mexico:

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Puebla, Mexico under the volcano

Having seen a 240 percent increase in searches, this city is just two hours from Mexico City and has seen a growth spurt in tourism since the earthquake it suffered in 2017. The city has strong religious roots with hundreds of churches that boast gorgeous architecture. Many of the restaurants claim to have the best mole sauce, but if you're looking to make your own, take a cooking class and experiment with different peppers. Or if you're up for some excitement, book tickets to a Lucha libre wrestling event.

3. Normandy, France:

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Morning in Honfleur, Normandy, France

Just a two-hour train ride from Paris, this historical region will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings this year. You won't find much wine here, but you'll love the apple cider, vast cheese selection, and abundance of seafood from the Atlantic waters. Be sure to check out the beautiful beaches and museums that give historical accounts of WWII and the invasion led by William the Conqueror. This area has seen a 229 percent increase in bookings.

4. Great Smoky Mountains, US:

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Wildflowers near snow covered mountain range

Home to America's most visited national park, there is no shortage of natural scenery and wonder here. The historic Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts 800 miles of trails, the biggest black bear population, and a wide range of plants and animals to enjoy. Feel free to hike, camp, or chase waterfalls at this picturesque landmark that has increased in bookings by 191 percent. Covering more than a half-million acres, there's something here to engage every lover of the outdoors.

5. Buenos Aires Province, Argentina:

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Caminito Street in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina

Not to be confused with the capital city with the same name, this province is by far the largest and most populated province in Argentina. This location has seen an 188 percent increase in bookings in the city of Tandil, receiving 5-star reviews of its superhosts for two years in a row. The value of the U.S. dollar relative to the peso makes this location even more attractive to tourists as they're able to stretch their coins a little further. Take a tour of the forest in an Unimog vehicle, or brush up on your bargaining skills and visit one of the outdoor craft markets.

6. Kaikoura, New Zealand:

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Scenic view of landscape against sky in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Having seen a whopping 295 percent increase in bookings, this location is perfect for wildlife exploration of all kinds. The hidden gem on the east coast of the south island of New Zealand is making a strong comeback after being hit with a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 2016. Go whale watching, enjoy some delicious crayfish, or take a helicopter ride and view the beautiful snow-covered mountains.

7. Accra, Ghana

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Scenic view of sea against sky in Accra, Ghana

Great art, excellent night-life, beautiful beaches, and melanated people! Ghana's capital has IT ALL! Take a stroll through the bustling upmarket area and go shopping or find a spicy jollof dish to satisfy your taste buds. Taking the three-hour drive to Elmina castle and discovering its connection to the slave trade is also a must-see attraction. This location has seen 163 percent increase in bookings.

8. Batumi, Georgia:

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Europe Square in Batumi, Adjara, Georgia

Located on the continent of Asia, this colorful town is becoming increasingly popular for international travelers. The extensive rail system allows visitors to travel between the capital (Tbilisi) and Batumi for less than $10. The illuminated trees at night and the city's casinos have many who visit this lesser-known city, nicknaming it the "Las Vegas of the Black Sea." Searches are up 200 percent.

9. Mozambique:

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Cityscape in Maputo, Mozambique

This paradise in southern Africa has seen an increase of 156 percent in bookings as it allows all of its visitors to connect with mother nature. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the Portuguese, so be sure to try one of the popular Peri-Peri dishes along with some Tipo Tinto (the country's National rum) while you're there. Take a dip at one of the pristine dive sites or get up close and personal with lions, hippos, and elephants at Gorongosa National Park and find out why scientists call it one of the most special and unique parks on earth.

10. Andalucia, Spain:

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Panoramic view of the historic center of Segovia from the Alcazar, Segovia, Spain

Spain's southernmost region is home to a rich history that can be uncovered in cities like Granada, Cordoba, and Seville. Here, you can learn about the history of flamenco music and dance, take a foodie day trip, or visit the gorgeous Alhambra Palace. A walking tour of a charming string of villages in the region of Axarquía will teach you about the local traditions of the area while sampling delicious wine and tapas. This location has a 100 percent increase in wishlist inclusion.

To see Airbnb's full list, click here.

Featured image by Getty Images