Top 5 destinations to explore in 2019

New year, new part of the world.

Published: Friday, November 30, 2018

The phrase ‘the world is your oyster’ couldn’t be truer as we bid farewell to 2018. That’s why RAA’s travel experts have put together the top 5 destinations to visit in 2019. Where do you see yourself in the New Year? Words: Lauren Ferrone

Scandinavia

From relaxing in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon to visiting the famous Danish theme park Legoland in Billund – which is home to about 340 billion pieces of Lego – there’s something for every traveller in Scandinavia.

After something low-key? A unique experience that isn’t your typical tourist attraction is driving the Oresund Bridge in Sweden. Imagine this: one minute you’re cruising almost 200 feet above the water, the next you’re following the road down, more than 30 feet below the surface.

If you plan to go in summer, know that Scandinavia shines bright – literally. At this time of year, it’s not unusual for the sun to still be out at midnight.

For travellers, longer days mean more time for sightseeing, but if you’re in need of some shut-eye, the sky’s warm glow can be challenging. Best to remember to pack your eye mask – just keep it off when you’re in Norway, as it’s one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights.

Tip from RAA Marion shop travel expert, Nikki Bouveng: Don’t miss Norway in a Nutshell, a 2–4 night journey through Norway’s UNESCO protected fjord and mountain regions. The tour includes a cruise with train and bus journeys.

It’s like a rollercoaster ride you don’t have to pay for and, best of all, in less than 15 minutes you’ll find yourself in Denmark (or vice versa depending on the direction you’re coming from).

Talk about squeezing in as much of Scandinavia in your itinerary as possible.

Oresund Bridge in Denmark
Oresund Bridge is like riding a rollercoaster.

Egypt

Stunning as this country’s iconic sights are, there’s more to Egypt than pyramids, the Nile and mummies.

To witness something a little different to the abundant caramel-coloured deserts, take a trip to Farafra’s White Desert, an oasis of odd-shaped chalk mountains which look like a winter wonderland.

While you’re in the country, forget sending Facebook messages and ordinary postcards back home. Instead, write a letter to your loved ones on paper made from papyrus. Why? The Egyptians believe they invented paper out of pulp derived from the papyrus tree, which still grows along the Nile.

For a demonstration on how the first Egyptians believe paper was made, you don’t need to head far from the pyramids to find yourself at the Papyrus Institute in Giza.

When you’re done exploring, quench your thirst by downing some Asab Al Sokar (Arabic for sugarcane) – one of the most common juices in Egypt.

Note: As some parts of Egypt are listed as high-risk areas, it’s a good idea to check the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smart Traveller website before you book a trip here, or chat to our travel consultants for extra peace of mind.

Tip from RAA Adelaide shop travel expert, Danielle Doz: Don’t forget to take photos, but also try to immerse yourself in the history and the sheer age of Egypt’s ancient structures. There’s something particularly special about the feeling Egypt leaves you with long after you’ve come home – both humbling and remarkable.

The White Desert.
Odd-shaped white mountains make this desert look like a winter wonderland.

Croatia

Despite its FIFA World Cup loss to France this year, Croatia is still a winner in our eyes.

With stunning pebbly beaches and sapphire-coloured waters, unwinding in coastal Croatia is the perfect way to kick-start 2019 the right way – with a bit of rest and relaxation.

If you ask the locals where to find the best beaches in Croatia, the seaside town of Brela would likely top the list. And for good reason – it was named as having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world a few years back. With 6 kilometres of beach and thick pine tree forest, it’s not hard to see why. Just remember to slip on appropriate footwear before your seaside stroll.

Tip from RAA Marion shop travel expert, Sarah Fewster: Don’t be afraid to travel in the low season to avoid the crowds, especially through national parks and small towns – it will make you experience more enjoyable.

Beach at Brela, Croatia
Brela is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Italy

Forget your New Year’s resolution to lose weight – it probably won’t happen in food-obsessed Italy.

From Milan to Rome and down to Palermo, life revolves around mealtimes. So where are the best places to pamper your palate? Aptly named after a meat, the northern Italian town of Bologna has some of the best dishes in the country for carnivores. Meatballs doused in rich sauces or cured meats on antipasti are the stars of most menus here.

You’ll know it’s time to move on when your pants start to feel a little tight. It’s a good idea to add a countryside escape to your Italian itinerary, and for that you can’t really go past Tuscany. It’s home to Italy’s most scenic vineyards and, some would say, the country’s best Chianti.

Tip from RAA Elizabeth shop travel expert, Rena Lombardi: Pack less from home as you’ll need the extra luggage space for the great shopping in Italy.

Vineyards with hot air balloon near a winery before harvest in the Tuscany wine growing area
Tuscany is home to Italy’s most scenic vineyards.

Japan

There are few places in the world where you’ll find dancing robots, dragons and ninjas in the same place – or at all. If you’re dining at Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant, consider it nothing out of the ordinary. After witnessing a show here, you’ll see why the Japanese are known as leaders in innovation and technology.

Looking for an experience a little less futuristic and closer to nature? Head to Japan at the end of March to see nature take over the country as the cherry blossom season blooms. Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyeon National Garden is considered one of the best places to view these pretty pink flowers.

Tip from RAA Mile End shop travel expert, Heather Burzacott: If you’re wanting to pick up souvenirs, wander off the beaten track as they are a fraction of the price compared to shopping around the main attractions and train stations.

Did you know?

RAA travel consultants are ATAS-accredited – that means the national industry body has given them the thumbs up for being the best in the business.

Cherry blossom season in Tokyo
Tokyo is pretty in pink.

See the world in 2019

Make 2019 the year you won’t forget – our ATAS-accredited travel experts can help.

Or call 8202 4589

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