New Year, New You! New Places to Explore in the New Year

Every year, new hot tourist destinations pop up, and this year, there are many new places to explore. Here’s our favorite new travel destinations to consider.

 

Picture this: you, your favorite person (or not), and 365 days of new opportunities and new experiences to be had. Wide-open spaces, a blank canvas… this is what happens when a new year rolls around. But, you can’t spend all of this time in the same place, right? After all, what fun would that be? This new you in the new year needs to get out and to explore – discover places you may not have even known existed.

There is no better time to be alive than in the life you are living right now. So, choose your destination, pack your bags, book that chartered private jet, and don’t look back! You are making memories in this new year!

Oh yes – perhaps you need to know where to go, right? Well, good news – we’ve got you covered. Check out these amazing new places to explore that you won’t want to miss this year.

1. Ionian Islands

Depending on how well you were in all those geography classes in school, you may be scratching your head as to just where the Ionian Islands fall on the map. You will be happy to know that they are part of Greece and fall just to the west in the rightly-named Ionian Sea.

These islands offer a very peaceful, laid-back, and more affordable approach to Greece. Sure visiting Santorini is wonderful, but if you are looking for a trip off the beaten path with more new places to explore, then the islands are for you. While here, go hiking, hang out on the beach, go sailing, visit local shops 789and artisans, and more.

The best time to visit is really between April and October if you would like the chance to enjoy all the islands. Although, it is important to note that August is a no-go. Most Greeks travel to the islands during that time and the islands become an uncomfortable packed house. Try to avoid traveling here during this month.

2. Jamaica

Looking for a spectacular getaway throughout the year? Consider a visit to Jamaica. Located in the Caribbean, it does not matter what part of this island you decide to visit. You will encounter beauty at every turn.

Here’s what makes Jamaica some amazing – its topography gives you such a variety. Sure, there are beaches – some absolutely stunning beaches. But, although it is a Caribbean island, that is not all it has to offer. You will also discover what it is like to walk through a real rain forest and how delicious jerk seasoning is on everything. Of course, you can also…

• Jump off the 35-foot cliffs at Rick’s Café
• Go hiking through the Blue Mountains – camp, too.
• Visit Bob Marley’s museum
• Go rafting on the Rio Grande
• Bobsled through Mystic Mountain
• Swim with dolphins or while on the backs of horses (yes, these horses swim)
• Look in awe at the waterfalls at Dunn’s River Falls

So much to do – and you can come anytime. Jamaica is where you should be this year.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Ready to explore one of the most famous national parks in our country? Yosemite National Park is revered as one of the most breathtaking natural areas around. It’s a valley, there is granite everywhere – even high above, tunnels, and waterfalls you will melt for.

You can camp, hike, backpack, and so on while here. And, many people spend a couple of days maneuvering around the different areas of the park. After all, did you know that Yosemite encompasses over 1,100 square miles?

If you are looking for some time to unplug and enjoy nature, then this is a great destination for you. And, because it is still in the U.S., it makes a wonderful getaway for a long weekend this year. The best time to visit? April to November – and always attempt to get there before 9 am so you can beat the crowds.

4. Paraty and Ilha Grande, Brazil

These two cities, close to Rio de Janeiro, complement one another well. And, if you are looking to get away outside of the big city feel, then they may very well be just what you are looking for. As close as they are, however, they each offer you something scenic and completely different.

In Paraty, you will encounter a quaint community with cobblestone roadways and charming architecture. It’s quiet and it’s artsy. You can

• Wander the streets (since the cobblestone roads are closed to cars)
• Visit some beautiful beaches
• Enjoy some breathtaking waterfalls
• Tour – and sample – the local cachaça distilleries

In Ilha Grande, you will find an even calmer experience. Here you will find white sandy beaches, free and plentiful wildlife, and the most naturalistic beauty with:

• Boat trips
• Drinks along the oceanfront
• Days spent snorkeling or scuba diving with the brightly-colored fish and reefs

What a place for memories in the new year! Visit anytime, but the best time to do so is April through October!

5. Finger Lakes, New York

Looking to get away stateside? Then consider visiting Finger Lakes. Located in Ontario County, New York, the best part about this area is that you can visit any time of year – because each season has its perks.

• During the winter months, there is skiing, ice skating,  and even ice fishing.
• Activities during the warmer months allow for time on the lakes kayaking, boating, and the like.
• Oh, and did we mention that there are 130 wineries in the area to explore, too?

There is something fun for everyone in Finger Lakes – all throughout the year. This area has access to 5 of the 11 Finger Lakes. If you are feeling extra ambitious, why not travel a little more, perhaps head over our northern border, and experience them all?

Conclusion

Well, it’s a new year and you are off on new adventures, right? Where will you choose? Or, better yet – why not visit all of these destinations and more? With a private jet, you can have more time to explore thanks to the flexibility and ease of access.

So, go on – get packing those bags! And, have an adventurous new year of memory-making!