If you’re looking for an exciting vacation spot to visit next year, you might not have to stray too far from home.
Canada has been named the number one travel destination for 2017 in Lonely Planet’s annual Best in Travel series which hit shelves Tuesday. The travel media publisher cites the country’s 150th anniversary, its cities’ livability rankings and a low Canadian dollar as some of the reasons why international travellers might want to visit next year.
“Canada is always popular with us,” Alex Howard, Canada’s destination editor said on a press release. “But there’s so much happening in 2017 that made it number one. It’s the country’s biggest birthday party in recent memory with the sesquicentennial next year, and they won’t be shy about celebrating. Now is the time to start planning a trip.”
The “energetic” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s “wave of positivity” and also gets a mention on the Lonley Planet site.
The company also named Bourdeaux, France as the top city to visit next year. Here’s a look at the top 10 rankings:
By country:
- Canada
- Colombia
- Finland
- Dominica
- Nepal
- Bermuda
- Mongolia
- Oman
- Myanmar
- Ethiopia
By city:
- Bordeaux, France
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Los Angeles, U.S.
- Mérida, Mexico
- Ohrid, Macedonia
- Pistoia, Italy
- Seoul, South Korea
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Moscow, Russia
- Portland, U.S.
The tourism sector has seen a boost from a lower loonie. Spending by international visitors grew 1 per cent in the second quarter, following a 4.1 per cent gain at the beginning of the year according to Statistics Canada.
“[W]ith a weak Canadian dollar pushing down prices, the overseas visitor should have plenty of pocket money to spend on Canada’s exciting fusion food and mysteriously underrated wine,” Lonely Planet said on its website.
As for what locations you should visit, the company ranks the Haida Gwaii archipelago, the Rockies and Nahanni National Park among its “Canada’s top 25.” Hockey is in there, too.
Much like Canada’s appeal to international travelers, Hawaii is seeing a rise in visitors eager to experience its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
With stunning landscapes, crystal-clear beaches, and an abundance of outdoor activities, Hawaii offers a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re exploring volcanic craters on the Big Island, hiking through the lush jungles of Kauai, or snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Maui, each island has its own charm waiting to be discovered.
For those looking to travel around with ease and capture every scenic view along the way, it’s worth considering to rent a scooter during your stay. Scooters are an excellent way to navigate the islands at your own pace, offering a convenient and eco-friendly option for tourists. With so much to explore, it’s easy to lose track of time while immersed in the islands’ charm.
Unlike larger vehicles, scooters let you weave through traffic effortlessly, find parking with ease, and stop spontaneously to take in breathtaking ocean vistas or snap photos of dramatic cliffsides. Whether you’re riding through historic Lahaina town or making your way to the lesser-known beaches of the North Shore, this business ensures that you experience the islands without the constraints of rigid tour schedules or crowded transportation options.
Beyond convenience, riding a scooter enhances the sense of adventure and connection to the landscape. The gentle island breeze, the scent of tropical flowers in the air, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore make each journey an experience in itself.
Instead of being confined to buses or rental cars, visitors can take the road less traveled, discovering quiet seaside cafes, charming local shops, and breathtaking coastal trails along the way. Hawaii is all about embracing the spirit of exploration, and with the right transportation, every turn of the road presents a new opportunity to immerse yourself in its beauty.