101 things you need to know about travel in 2018

Whether you're planning the trip of a lifetime, or you just want a weekend away, we've scoured the globe for the most exciting things going on in travel in 2018. From must-visit destinations to new tours and cruises taking in some truly exciting landscapes, here's everything you need to know about the next year in travel.

We asked our expert travel writers for their recommendations for the best places to visit in 2018. Here's what they said:  

1. For an alternative to Barcelona: Madrid, Spain

As Barcelona struggles to cope with overwhelming numbers of tourists, savvy travellers should turn their attention to the Spanish capital of Madrid. Madrileños are fiercely proud of their city and although it might not have “the” landmark sight of other capital cities, the architectural backdrop across the city is stunning. And exploring its neighbourhoods turns up delightful local bars – where tapas is still served free with “una caña“ (a small draft beer) – and there’s a refreshingly unpretentious post-midnight nightlife scene.

Catarina Belova/Shutterstock

2. For arts: Downtown Los Angeles, California, USA

Recent regeneration in Downtown Los Angeles makes 2018 a great year to visit if you’re keen on arts and culture. Joining the world-class Geffen Contemporary at MOCA (renovated by Frank Gehry) and The Broad (lauded for its free entry, unusual for LA), the new kid on the Little Tokyo/Arts District block is the Institute of Contemporary Art, which was founded in Santa Monica and moved here in late 2017. The surrounding streets are packed with public art and galleries; on the second Thursday of each month there’s a self-guided Downtown Art Walk with special programming into the evening.

 

A post shared by ICA LA (@theicala) on Nov 10, 2017 at 9:26am PST

3. For Iceland without the tourists: Faroe Islands, Denmark

If your idea of a spellbinding destination is Iceland without the tourists, then take an hour’s flight from Scotland to this remote and rugged archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. The Faroe Islands’ landscape is pristine and the beauty of its fjords, mountains and lush green valleys is staggering; most of its 18 islands are connected by tunnels and bridges, so it’s best to hire a car to explore. You might not see another vehicle for hours.

Nick Fox/Shutterstock

4. For the Capital of Culture: Valletta, Malta

Co-host of the 2018 European Capital of Culture is the tiny capital of Malta (they share the title with Dutch city Leeuwarden). The fortified city of Valletta might be diminutive in size, but its successful bid has proved it has huge cultural potential. Integral to the win was the redevelopment of the covered market (is-Suq l-Antik tal-Belt) and the old civil abattoir (il-Biċċerija) for project space – plus the street art and entertainment that are a part of everyday life on the atmospheric squares and lanes around the city.

liseykina/Shutterstock

5. For planes, trains and gin: Hampshire, England

Hampshire will be playing a key role in 2018 RAF centenary celebrations with events and exhibitions, including at FAST (Farnborough Air Sciences Trust) and its museum, and at the 2018 Farnborough International Air Show from 20–22 July. If planes don’t float your boat then head to Hampshire for gin instead. You can tour the Bombay Sapphire distillery at Laverstoke Mill, or take a cocktail masterclass. Hampshire also produces high quality English sparkling and white wine at its vineyards such as Hambledon, plus you can ride the Real Ale Train on the famous Watercress Line.

 

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6. For a City of Design: Dundee, Scotland

The UK’s first UNESCO City of Design (nominated for its diverse contributions to fields including medical research, comics and video games) was also recently named Scotland’s “coolest little city” by GQ Magazine. Dundee deserves the accolades – 2018 will see the fourth-largest city in Scotland emerge as an arts and design destination, with the V&A Museum of Design opening at the heart of an ambitious £1 billion waterfront regeneration. Dundee is already known for modern Scottish cooking and boutique hotels are opening to keep pace with visitor demand.

Abi Warner/Shutterstock

7. To honour a legacy: Johannesburg, South Africa

The vibrant centre of sprawling and multicultural Johannesburg, or Joburg, epitomises southern hemisphere rejuvenation. Public art installations, cool gallery spaces, street markets and a weekend music scene that oozes sophistication (think jazz, electronic and hip hop) are all attracting favourable worldwide coverage. 2018 is the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela, and Johannesburg and the Nelson Mandela Foundation are at the epicentre of honouring his life and work with initiatives, projects and events.

Gimas/Shutterstock

8. For the FIFA World Cup: Moscow, Russia

Moscow is one of the hosts of the 2018 FIFA World Cup (other host cities include St Petersburg and lesser known Kazan – the destination of a new three-hour high-speed train from the capital). The Kremlin, Red Square and Lenin’s Tomb are the emblematic heart of the city; a lively nightlife, an extravagantly ornate Metro system and Europe’s highest observation deck (set to open in January) are less expected.

Baturina Yuliya/Shutterstock

9. To escape to the countryside: Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

The Cairngorms is the UK’s largest national park – twice the size of the Lake District – and its high tundra and pinewood forests are havens for wildlife. Hiking takes you up close to ptarmigan and capercaillie (both part of the grouse family), red squirrels and osprey, and perhaps even Britain’s only herd of reindeer. A great family destination; you can travel there on the Caledonian Sleeper, visit castles, an adventure park, or head to Loch Morlich, which has the highest beach in Britain and a watersports centre where you can rent kayaks. Oh, and the Snow Roads Scenic Route has been launched – a 90 mile journey from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey, crossing the highest public road in Britain and travelling through the outstanding landscapes of the eastern Cairngorms.

Joan Vendrell/Shutterstock

10. For remote island life: St Helena, British Overseas Territory

Until October of this year, the only way to reach remote St Helena – “the Galapagos of the Atlantic” – was a five-day journey by Royal Mail ship from Cape Town, South Africa. Although it’s still possible to arrive by sea, the tiny island has now opened its long-awaited airport with flights from Johannesburg or Cape Town via a stopover in Namibia. It’s worth the journey to enjoy marine wildlife watching and swimming with whale sharks, hiking to the island’s highest peaks or stargazing (the night sky here is phenomenal). If you’re PADI certified, you can dive crystal-clear waters to deserted wrecks, seamounts and caverns.

Darrin Henry/Shutterstock

11. For a fascinating road trip: Taos, New Mexico, USA

New Mexico has never been that accessible to UK budget travellers, but thanks to Norwegian Airlines launching a low cost transatlantic flight to Denver, this is set to change. The artistic hub of Taos is the ideal road trip from Denver – you can drive down in just four hours, or break up the journey at Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado. Once you hit New Mexico, the roads are practically empty: you’ll see the stunning vistas, expansive skies and colourful wildflowers that so inspired artist Georgia O’Keefe. Historic Taos has unique landmarks, including Taos Plaza and the multi-storey adobe buildings of Taos Pueblo (not a museum, but a home to Native American Puebloan people). Just outside town visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge for spectacular views.

Dan Kaplan/Shutterstock

12. For the Great Exhibition of The North: Newcastle & Gateshead, England

Science and industry meet art and design for the Great Exhibition of The North, a one-off celebration of everything that’s great about the north of England. Between 22 June and 9 September the twin cities of Newcastle and Gateshead will be exhibiting inspired technology, street performance, cutting-edge culture and magical experiences, set to the overarching theme of "The Blazing World – The Fires of Invention". Throughout the Great Exhibition, visitors will be able to explore the cityscape on three themed walking routes: the "Seeing in Wonder" art route, the "Thinking in Style" design route, and the "Dreaming in WOW" innovation route. Meanwhile, the BALTIC centre for contemporary art will invite five northern and five international artists to create work on the exhibition’s themes. 

 

A post shared by Great Exhibition of the North (@getnorth2018) on Sep 18, 2017 at 9:36am PDT

14. For exciting European culture: the Baltic States

Special centenary events in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia (including a rumoured visit from Pope Francis) will celebrate the 1918 independence of the Baltic States. The collapse of the German and Russian empires led to independence for these three northern European countries, which they kept for nearly 30 precious years before WWII took it from them once again (only to be returned in 1991, as it continues today). The capital cities of Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn are distinct from each other, but all are exciting cultural hubs, with beautiful old towns – and don’t forget that each country sits up against the Baltic Sea, with a gorgeous coastline of white sand beaches and sleepy seaside resorts.

Grisha Bruev/Shutterstock

15. For Star Wars fans: the Skellig Islands, County Kerry, Ireland

Skellig Michael – the larger of County Kerry’s two offshore Skellig Islands – has hit the headlines as a filming location for blockbuster movie Star Wars The Last Jedi. To visit this tiny, craggy UNESCO World Heritage Site, take a boat tour from Portmagee (landings are seasonal and weather dependent – book well in advance) and see where monks in the sixth century once built modest, dry-stone homes. Back on the mainland you can enjoy phenomenal views of the Skelligs from Skellig Ring, an 11-mile offshoot of the famous Ring of Kerry, but much lovelier and more wild, as the road is too narrow for coaches.

UTBP/Shutterstock

15. For a chic retreat: La Rochelle, France

This sleepy seaside resort on the French Atlantic coast gets overlooked all too often for the south, but it’s the perfect family escape. You can get the train from Paris in a couple of hours, or wend your way down from the St Malo ferry port in Brittany. La Rochelle has a gorgeous old town, great beaches and atmospheric seafood restaurants dishing up mouth-watering moules frites. To extend a weekend, head just offshore to chic Île de Ré, which (outside peak season) makes for an idyllic getaway.

marcin jucha/Shutterstock

16. For a family trip of a lifetime: Costa Rica 

Costa Rica is a clean, safe and family-friendly destination, with a tropical climate and decent infrastructure. Its natural beauty boasts a coastline on the Atlantic and the Pacific, rugged mountain ranges, rivers, volcanoes and rainforests. This tiny Central American country is already a must-visit destination, even before you add its conservation and ecotourism credentials (Costa Rica has ploughed investment into protecting its biodiversity for years and plans to be the first carbon-neutral country by 2021). Families who are keen on outdoor adventures such as ziplining, rafting, horse riding, snorkelling and hiking, or spotting incredible wildlife including sea turtles, dolphins, birds, butterflies, monkeys and sloths, can fly direct from the UK or USA.

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There's a whole host of new flights taking off from the UK in 2018. Here are 13 of our favourite new routes to get you inspired.

1. London Gatwick to Denver, Colorado, USA

Denver, or “the Mile High City”, has 300 days of sunshine and an historic downtown that’s easily explored on foot – plus the majestic Rocky Mountains are close by. Norwegian Air have launched a thrice-weekly direct flight between London and Denver that is exponentially cheaper than existing carriers, with prices from £180 each way.

2. London Heathrow to the Seychelles

The Seychelles are a group of picture-perfect white sand islands in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. British Airways have brought them closer with the launch of the UK’s first ever direct flight, reducing the flight time from 13 hours (with a stopover) to 10 hours. Direct flights are available between March and October 2018 and are priced from around £300 each way.

Jag_cz/Shutterstock

3. Edinburgh to Washington Dulles, Virginia, USA

In May 2018 United Airlines will launch a new seasonal Edinburgh to Washington Dulles direct flight connecting the Scottish and US capital cities in under eight hours. Washington DC is the political powerhouse of the USA and its grand museums and monuments are like nowhere else on Earth. The flight from Edinburgh will leave at 12.40pm, arriving at 3.40pm; the inbound service will leave at 10.10pm, arriving at 10.25am.

4. London Gatwick to Chicago, Illinois, USA

Norwegian Air are at it again with this low-cost transatlantic flight between London and Chicago launching in March 2018. Flights will be daily and we’ve seen prices for as cheap as £115 one way, so what’s stopping you from shopping on the Magnificent Mile, dropping into a world-class museum or two, cheering on the Cubs, Sox, Bears, Bulls or Blackhawks, or biting into the world’s best deep dish pizza?

5. Cardiff to Doha, Qatar

Qatar’s principal airport is Hamad in capital city Doha. As part of the massive launch of 26 new routes in 2018, Qatar Airways has introduced a daily flight between Cardiff and Doha, making them the first Gulf airline to service Wales. Doha is rising out of the desert to become a commercial and cultural hub to rival Dubai. Swish new developments like the waterfront promenade and The Pearl sit side-by-side with Souq Waqif, Doha’s traditional market.

Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

6. London Heathrow to Nashville, Tennessee, USA

From May 2018 British Airways is launching a five-times-weekly flight to Nashville, the USA's “Music City”. This Tennessee metropolis has Southern charm (and comfort food) as well as American cultural cornerstones like the The Country Music Hall of Fame. The direct flight is nine hours and is the first direct flight to Nashville from Europe. Return fares can be found for as little as £550.

7. London Stansted to Reykjavík, Iceland

Low cost airliner WOW air is launching daily flights from Stansted to Keflavík International Airport (30 miles from Reykjavík) from the end of April 2018, with fares from just £30. Reykjavík is the super cool gateway to Iceland’s unspoiled wilderness of mountains and glaciers and hot springs; in summer you’ll have midnight sun and in winter, the spectacular northern lights.

8. London Heathrow to Perth, Australia

In March 2018, Qantas will launch the first ever direct service from London Heathrow to Perth. The shiny gateway to Western Australia is a well-to-do city on the banks of the Swan River and it’s buzzing with investment. The 14,498-mile route is the third-longest passenger route in the world, and this daily flight will be the first regular non-stop passenger service to connect Europe and Australia.

John Crux/Shutterstock

9. London Stansted to Detroit, Michigan, USA

WOW air’s new daily flights from London to Reykjavík will provide connections to the airline’s new services to Midwest America, the first of which will be to Detroit from 25 April 2018. The other three Midwest routes will be Cleveland (inaugural flight May 3), Cincinnati (May 9) and St. Louis (May 17). The starting price for all four new routes will be £130 and we’re most excited about visiting Detroit to see its rapid transformation from crime capital to city of cool.

10. London Gatwick to Buenos Aires, Argentina

Norwegian Air have added Buenos Aires to their list of destinations from London, giving passengers a low-cost alternative to British Airways, who are the only airline currently offering a direct route. Argentina’s stylish capital city knows how to have a good time – tango, anyone? Flights (London to Buenos Aires is around 13 hours) will operate from February 2018 and are on sale from £299 one way.

11. London Luton to Tirana, Albania

In a major expansion at Luton Airport, Wizz Air will launch a thrice-weekly route to the Albania’s capital, Tirana. Until fairly recently (the 1990s), this once-communist country was almost as secretive as North Korea, but these days Albania – which borders Greece – is very much open for business. Tirana has an unusual charm about it, with multicoloured concrete housing blocks, a peculiar mix of architecture, a fascinating nuclear bunker turned museum and art space, and some great cafés that moonlight as bars. Rent a car to get out into the gorgeous countryside. We’ve found flights for £56 one way.

Lenar Musin/Shutterstock

12. London Gatwick to Seattle, Washington, USA

Norwegian Air have introduced the first low-cost direct flight between London and Seattle and flights are much cheaper than the current competition, with economy fares £160 each way. Seattle is a laidback city sitting on the Puget Sound in the glorious Pacific Northwest, while you’re here, you could hop over the border to visit nearby Vancouver.

13. London Luton to Lviv, Ukraine

Wizz Air’s expanded routes include three flights per week to Lviv in western Ukraine from September 2018 (expected price from £27 one way). The historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its cobbled streets and squares are perfect for strolling – stopping in at one or two Viennese-style coffee houses along the way. Lviv is a three-hour drive from the Carpathian Mountains and their chocolate box villages.

There's a lot to look forward in 2018, from family theme parks to excellent museums. Here are some of the coolest attractions opening in the next 12 months.

1. Aerospace Bristol, England

In 2017, a new £19 million state-of-the-art museum dedicated to Bristol’s airspace heritage opened to the public. Bristol is the home of Concorde – the supersonic passenger jet was largely developed here, the UK assembly line was located here and all UK Concordes made their maiden flight from the city’s runway – so the last Concorde ever to be built takes pride of place. 

Aerospace Bristol

2. Human Tower Museum of Catalonia, Valls, Spain

The Catalan tradition of building castells – human towers of up to ten stories, with the strongest forming the pinya, or base – originated in Valls, 65 miles west of Barcelona. In 2018, the town is set to open a museum dedicated to the 200-year-old feat of strength and teamwork, and nearby Tarragona will host its biannual human tower competition, with the best teams (colles) in the country competing.

David Ortega Baglietto/Shutterstock

3. Mariposa Grove, Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove reopens this spring after a three-year project to give more protection to the 500 giant sequoias that grow here – these ancient trees that can live for up to 3,000 years. Many of the roads have been converted into hiking tracks, new accessible trails provide universal access for all visitors and all commercial activities have been removed from the area.

turtix/Shutterstock

4. MAAT: Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s sensational new museum and exhibition space was officially completed in 2017. MAAT was opened to revitalise Belem’s historic district to the west of the city centre; it occupies the renovated Tejo Power Station, as well as a new futuristic building, where the galleries are sunk into the ground so that the roof forms part of the pedestrian route along the riverfront.

Fernando Guerra/EDP Foundation

5. Olympia Aqua Park, The Peloponnese, Greece

The sprawling Olympia Aqua Park at the heart of the Riviera Olympia Resort in the Peloponnese is Europe’s biggest water park in a hotel complex. Families with children of all ages are catered to with waterslides, plunge pools, “flying boats” and the hair-raising Looping Rocket.

Riviera Olympia Resort/Grecotel

6. Copenhill, Copenhagen

With typical Scandinavian cool, Copenhagen is building a ski run on top of a waste-to-energy plant close to the city airport. As part of the city's intention to be carbon neutral by 2025, the plant will generate clean energy – when 500 pounds of carbon dioxide have been released into the atmosphere it will blow out giant smoke rings that are visible across the city.

Steve Heap/Shutterstock

7. HM Bark Endeavour, Whitby, England

2018 marks the 250th anniversary of explorer Captain Cook's nearly three-year voyage aboard the Endeavour to the Pacific, when he charted New Zealand and the east coast of Australia. The original Endeavour was built in Whitby and a full-size replica is to be refurbished and transferred to this salty port town in the northeast, where it will open as a historic attraction.

Whitby Marina/Shutterstock

8. Route of the Parks, Chile

Ruta de los Parques (Route of Parks) is an extended and rebranded section of the iconic Carretera Austral, Chile’s iconic Southern Highway. The 1,500-mile road cuts through classic Patagonian wilderness from temperate rainforest to ice fields and will link seventeen new and existing national parks (it will expand Chile’s national park system by more than 10 million acres).

K_Boonnitorod/Shutterstock

9. Hayward Gallery, London, England

The Hayward Gallery – distinguishable on London’s Southbank because of its 1960s Brutalist architecture – marks its fiftieth anniversary by reopening after a major two-year renovation. A fundraising drive raised £35 million to overhaul its iconic pyramid roof lights, and in January 2018, the lighter, brighter arts space will host the first major UK retrospective of the work of renowned German photographer Andreas Gursky.

Morley Von Sternberg

10. Remai Modern, Saskatoon, Canada

The sleek new £80 million Remai Modern is a much-anticipated museum of modern and contemporary art on Saskatoon’s riverfront in the Canadian Prairies. It has 11 gallery spaces over four floors, as well as a theatre, studio and outdoor terraces. The ground floor, with its eye-popping art installations, gallery space and café, is free to the public.

Adrien Williams

11. Visitor centre at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, England

The much-loved open-air Yorkshire Sculpture Park is opening a new £3.8 million visitor centre in the summer of 2018, which will include a restaurant and shop, as well as a gallery space to host a changing programme of word-class art from the 20th and 21st centuries. The planned building is environmentally friendly and sympathetic to the rolling west Yorkshire landscape. Visitors are being given the chance to immortalise their name in a “walk of art”, a steel walkway at the entrance of the new visitor centre.

Courtesy of Yorkshire Sculpture Park

12. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham, England

LEGO fans are looking forward to this summer when LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham opens its doors at the Arena Birmingham. The indoor attraction will have masterclasses from the LEGO Master Model Builder, interactive rides, a 4D cinema, and MINILAND, which will feature recreations of Birmingham’s top attractions in LEGO. Adults must be accompanied by a child.

Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham

13. Toy Story Land, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, USA

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a movie-themed park that’s part of Orlando’s vast Walt Disney World Resort. Its newest attraction (opening summer 2018) set in Andy’s backyard from the perspective of Toy Story characters Woody, Buzz, Slinky Dog, Rex and the Aliens. Giant building blocks and games boards set the scene and there’s a slinky dog rollercoaster and alien flying saucers to ride.

Toy Story Land Disney

14. AJ Hackett Bungy Tower, Singapore

Singapore’s first and only bungy tower opened in August 2017 on Siloso Beach, Sentosa Island. The outdoor adventure site also boasts a 47m-high skybridge with a glass cube, a 144-foot vertical skywalk and two side-by-side giant swings. Post adrenaline activity, you can enjoy a cocktail or cold beer from the sundowner deck. The good news for budget travellers is that Norwegian Air have launched a London Gatwick to Singapore flight.

AJ Hackett Bungy Tower

15. MV Fingal floating hotel, Edinburgh, Scotland

A first for Scotland, this £3.5 million development will see former lighthouse steam tender MV Fingal completely overhauled and converted into a luxury floating hotel alongside one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions, the Royal Yacht Britannia. When MV Fingal is launched in spring 2018, she'll have a high-spec Art Deco interior and 23 balconied cabins inspired by a rich maritime heritage. All this, and two Michelin-starred restaurants within walking distance in Leith, near Edinburgh.

MV Fingal

16. Icehotel Sweden

Located in the far north of Sweden in the village of Jukkasjärvi, just 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the Icehotel is built from around a thousand ice blocks harvested from the River Torne. The idea developed from an original 645-square-foot igloo ice structure, which was used as an art gallery in 1990. These days, the Icehotel reopens every year and closes when the ice melts in spring. Inside, it’s a fairly constant -5°C and guests sleep in thick Arctic sleeping bags. Take a look inside this year's construction.

Icehotel.com

This year, tour operators cruise liners are pulling out all the stops to help travellers reach far-flung, and closer-to-home, destinations around the world. Here are 18 of our favourite tours and cruises for 2018.

1. Intrepid's Moldova, Ukraine & Romania Explorer

Intrepid has launched an expedition that takes in Moldova, the sliver of land between the Ukraine and Romania. This 13-day tour to a little-known spot is a great way to avoid the overtourism you’ll find in a lot of Europe – Moldova is Europe’s least visited country so it’s truly an off-the-beaten-track place (the tour comes with a warning that things won’t always go to plan). From £1,356 per person.

2. McKinlay Kidd's car-free Scottish flying safari

McKinlay Kidd has introduced a 10-night island hopping tour that will fly you between Islay, Lewis, Inverness, Skye and Orkney. Flights are by small planes and you’ll be met at each new destination by a guide who will drive you to the most interesting and pretty local spots, and to the best distilleries, so you can explore at your leisure. The tour can be booked between March and October and costs from £2,190 per person. If flying isn't your thing, try a Scottish cruise.

Yurifineart/Shutterstock

3. Naturetrek's Mongolian snow leopard tour

The remote Altai Mountains and Hustai National Park area of landlocked Mongolia is home to snow leopards as well as wolves, Mongolian gazelle and the critically-endangered saiga antelope. Naturetrek has crafted a new 11-day expedition in search of them, led by expert naturalist guides. From £4,595 per person.

4. Chobe and Zambezi River Cruise with CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope's brand new Chobe and Zambezi river cruises will sail through incredible landscapes in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Guests enjoy a unique safari exploring the Chobe National Park, which is home to more than a quarter of Africa's total elephant population. Another trip highlight is a tour of the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. The cruise ship is boutique and accommodates a maximum of 16 guests. From £3,889 per person for the four day cruise, followed by a five-day stay at the 5-star Cascades Lodge. Also includes a domestic flight from Johannesburg to Kasane.

5. E-biking in the southern French Alps with Undiscovered Mountains

If you’ve always fancied cycling the Tour de France but haven’t got the legs for the punishing hills, this new electric bike tour by Undiscovered Mountains is a no brainer. The Alps specialist tour company has launched a guided, week-long tour of the Alpe D'Huez, Col D'Izoard, Col du Noyer and other iconic Tour de France sites. No need to break a sweat. From around £1,250.

David Hughes/Shutterstock

6. BSpoke's Portuguese coast cycling tour

Tourism in Portugal is on the up – Lisbon and Porto are on everyone’s European bucket list – but the wild and rugged Atlantic coast is, for now, relatively untouched by the hand of development. In 2018, BSpoke are offering a gorgeous new cycle route along the Alentejo Western Atlantic Coast from Lisbon to the Algarve. On this eight-day tour you’ll discover empty white-sand beaches and tiny fishing villages; all accommodation and luggage transfers are sorted for you. From £1,085 per person.

7. Trekking in Andorra with Ramblers

Ramblers Walking Holidays is planning a hut-to-hut tour along a new walking route all above 4,900 feet. Coronallacs, meaning “the crown of the lakes”, is a 60-mile walking circuit in the Andorran Pyrenees designed in five daily stages of between eight and 13 miles, with a stop each night in remote but well-equipped mountain refuges. Departures start in July 2018 and prices are from £1,265 for six nights (including a hotel at the start and end of the trip).

8. BC Ferries' Great Bear Rainforet route, Canada

In 2018 there will be a new way to sail between northern Vancouver Island and Bella Coola on British Columbia’s mainland, as BC Ferries is reviving a direct route from Port Hardy to the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. The “Northern Sea Wolf” will take 10 hours to cruise the picturesque inlets and fjords; it will operate summer only and cost approximately £115 per foot passenger.

Dan Kosmayer/Shutterstock

9. Off-road adventures in the North America with Hastings Overland

Get adventurous and go off-road with Hastings Overland, a new rental service that provides fully-equipped jeeps with rooftop tents, custom-made tailgate kitchens and all sorts of camping gear (everything from a stove to an auxiliary cord for road trip tunes). You pick up from Vancouver and can head into the wilderness pretty much anywhere – even across the border in the USA.

10. SmoothRed's Romanian Experience Tour

From Bucharest to Transylvania, this nine-day Romanian Experience Tour with SmoothRed has a focus on wine (wine-tasting experiences in Dealu Mare wine region, Prahova Valley, Jidvei and Dragasani), but explores the fascinating history and culture of this legendary area too. From £1,890 per person.

11. A Great War tour with River Cruise Line

A hundred years after the end of WWI, the River Cruise Line is offering a commemorative seven-day Battlefields and stories of the Great War tour. Guests cruise through Holland and Belgium, taking in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent, with excursions to WWI battlefields and memorials at Mons, Ypres and Ploegsteert. Return travel from the UK is included at £829 per person. Departures from 3 April.

12. The world’s biggest cruise liner with Royal Caribbean

In 2018, Royal Caribbean International launch Symphony of the Seas, which will sleep 6,870 guests over 18 decks. This vast ocean-going liner is set to be the biggest cruise ship in the world and features a 10-storey slide, as well as three waterslides and a splashpark, zip wire and surf simulator. Symphony’s maiden voyage departs Barcelona in Spain and then takes in Mallorca, the French port of Marseille, and Rome in Italy. Admire the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel, with its frescos by Michelangelo and Botticelli, before sailing on to Naples and visiting the fascinating remains of Pompeii. The seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise costs from £1,039 per person based on two sharing.

13. A Nairobi National Park stay with Acacia Africa

With rumours of the Obama’s visiting in 2018, Nairobi is a hot destination for next year. Organise a visit with Acacia Africa’s new three-day Nairobi Park Stay, which includes a game drive in Nairobi National Park and a visit to Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. From £740 per person, including return airport transfers and twin en-suite accommodation at a tented camp (inside Nairobi National Park). Daily departures from 3 January 2018.

14. Sri Lanka sailing with G Adventures

Tourism in Sri Lanka is booming and G Adventures’ new seven-day sailing trip explores the south coast of the “pearl of the Indian Ocean”. It’s a small ship adventure, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkelling and taking it easy on the beach. Priced from £1,099 per person (though this trip could also be extended with their land-based Sri Lanka itinerary).

Klemen K. Misic/Shutterstock

15. G Adventures' Best of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Another new itinerary from G Adventures for 2018, the nine-day Best of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan takes in the cities of Almaty and Bishkek, as well as scenic valleys, lakes and canyons – with hiking, swimming and horseriding if you’re game. Kyrgyzstan is benefitting from investment in tourism by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and more than 1,500 miles of newly marked trekking routes are being developed throughout the country. The next year will also see Kyrgyzstan host 40 nations in the biennial World Nomad Games, a championship of traditional nomadic sports and culture, with competitions in eagle hunting, stick wrestling and horseback battles. Priced from £749 per person.

16. Circumnavigating Svalbard with Hurtigruten

Halfway between Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard Archipelago is an Arctic wilderness that’s home to more polar bears than humans. Hurtigruten is planning a new cruise – actually not until 2019 but we think it’s worth the wait – that kicks off in Longyearbyen and takes in glaciers, fjords and mountains under the midnight sun. Return flights from Oslo are included, so you could extend your holiday to include time in Norway’s vibrant capital city. From £5,257 per person.

17. Winter sunshine in Morocco with One Traveller

This tour is a little different as it’s specifically aimed at solo travellers over 50. One Traveller has introduced a bunch of new tours and cruises for 2018 and we love the sound of this 13-day Morocco adventure. Flights between London Heathrow and Casablanca are included, and you’ll spend a couple of days in the capital before heading to Fez, with a half day to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss, then Erfoud and the Middle Atlas Mountains, sunset over the Sahara and some time in Marrakesh. From £2,200 per person. Not sure about travelling alone? Check out our tips here and read why solo travel isn't just for backpackers.

Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

18. New Caledonian Sleeper trains

2018 will see a fleet of swanky new trains launched on the overnight service between London and Scotland. A £150 million investment means that double beds and en-suite toilets and showers will be available for the first time, as well as a Highlands-inspired menu. The Caledonian Sleeper Highland route runs between London Euston and Fort William, Inverness, and Aberdeen. The Caledonian Sleeper Lowland route runs between London Euston and Glasgow Central or Edinburgh Waverley.

New year, new you, right? We’ll take any excuse to invest in some new travel gear at loveEXPLORING. Here’s a selection of travel essentials we reckon you'll need for your adventures in 2018.

1. For sharing your travels in VR: Detu Twin 360 camera

If you thought 360-degree camera equipment was cumbersome, expensive and only for professional filmmakers, think again. The Detu Twin is probably smaller than your current camera, lighter and ultra easy to use. With a camera on each side, it shoots 360-degree HD video and photos and stitches them together so you can download instantly to your phone via wi-fi. Upload the photos or videos to Facebook and your friends will be able to experience the sights and sounds of your trip in 360. It doesn't, however, embed the correct metadata in the files if you're transferring via your computer, so Facebook and YouTube won't process it as a 360-degree asset.
Available from Amazon from £209

2. The ultimate carry-on backpack: RiutBag X25

These guys know how to make a backpack. Earlier in 2017 we reviewed the RiutBag Crush, and the newest addition to the family is the X25. This multi-purpose backpack – we occasionally use it for commuting, too – is sturdy, stylish and comfortable to wear (there’s even a waist strap available for extra support). It’s the signature Riut theft-proof design, with all its pockets on the back, but the main event is its expandable main compartment. It starts out as a 10-litre backpack, but expands to 25. Perfect for long weekends and carry-on-only trips. The only downside? It's already fairly heavy when empty, so be prepared for a little extra weight.
Available from riut.co.uk from £149

3. For sustainable sipping: NKD Pod water bottle

The war on plastic continues as our oceans are suffering at the hands of mass waste, so do your bit by investing in this reusable water bottle. The NKD Pod not only looks cool, but it’s immensely practical. It has an in-built, extremely effective water filter, which means you can fill it up from pretty much any tap (and even rivers/streams/lakes if need be), and it can be opened with one hand for on-the-go sips. It is, however, quite a wide bottle so if you’ve small hands it’s not always practical, and it might take some time to get used to drinking as the filter creates some resistance.
Available from nkdlife.com from £19.95

4. For wildlife watching: Swarovski CL Companion binoculars

Whether you’re wildlife spotting or stargazing, you need a decent pair of binoculars in hand. Enter the Swarovski CL Companion. They are lightweight enough to not be a millstone around your neck when you’re not using them and they fit snugly in your hand when you are, even if you’re a child. Equally importantly, they provide a superb 132m field of view and eight-times magnification. We tested them in the Isle of Man on a boat trip where they gave us crystal-clear views of seals and a variety of birdlife, including a peregrine falcon.
Available from Swarovski £910

5. For sensational snaps: Sony A6300 compact camera

Anyone who loves sharing their travel experiences needs a good camera, and we can vouch for the Sony A6300. This small, lightweight compact has a large enough sensor to make taking photos in low light an absolute joy and comes with a brilliant wide angle lens. It's also got good zoom for when you need to get up close and personal too. Below is a video we shot with ours on safari in South Africa.
Available from Amazon from £780

 

A post shared by Lottie Gross (@lottiegross) on Aug 11, 2017 at 7:32am PDT

6. For staying dry: K-WAY Jacques Plus rain coat

Everyone needs a good waterproof jacket. The K-WAY range is one of our favourites because it doesn’t sacrifice style for substance. You’ll stay dry while looking good, and it'll keep you warm. There are five colours to choose from, but the best thing of all? It packs away into its own pocket. 
Available from K-Way from £80

7. For adventures at home: the Great British Adventure Map

If you're a keen traveller, it's likely you've a bit of a penchant for maps. Well, so do we, and we love the Great British Adventure Map: a visual guide to all the amazing outdoor adventures to be had across this little island. This map of Britain is the perfect inspiration to hang on your wall, or just something to pore over with a cuppa on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Marked on the map are brilliant beaches, waterways and even islands, and on the back you'll find handy lists of events, the best views and more. 
Available from Marvellous Maps from £15

8. For epic inspiration: Lonely Planet’s Guide to The World

Lonely Planet publish tons of books each year, but there’s one we reckon every traveller needs: their guide to The World. It's an all-in-one guide to the best things to see and do in every country on Earth, with practical tips and itinerary suggestions for cross-country adventures.
Available from Amazon from £17

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9. For organising your bucket list: the Travel Listography book

When we're not travelling, we're dreaming about travelling. The Travel Listography book will inspire you to dream and record all of your exploring aspirations, with blank spaces to fill in where you've been and where you'd like to go under themes such as "countries in Europe" or "national parks". If you've not written your bucket list down, this is a great place to start. 
Available from Amazon from £13

10. For a better sleep: the ultimate travel pillow

Those long flights can be hell without something to prop your head up, and that pathetic pillow the airline gives you just won't do. The latest development in travel pillows is actually not a pillow at all, but more of a neck brace. Eschew the classic U-shaped neck pillow and opt for this fleece-covered neck support, which claims it's "scientifically proven" to be better than the other options available. Whether there's science in it or not, over 70% 1,200 of Amazon reviews gave it five stars – you can't argue with that!
Available from Amazon from £25

11. For wild sleeps: Hunka XL bivvy bag

If you're keen to get back to nature in 2018, forget about camping: it's all about sleeping under the stars. Bivvy bags are designed to protect your from the elements while sleeping outdoors, so snooze somewhere wild this summer – no tent or mattress needed. You simply slip it over your sleeping bag and pull the hood tight with just a small gap so you can breathe. Still not sure? Read why adventurer Alastair Humphreys loves them.
Available from AlpKit from £64

Johnny Adolphson/Shutterstock

12. For happy hungry campers: the Tegstove

You might recognise the Tegstove from an episode of Dragons' Den in early 2016, when company founder Spencer Turner sparked a bidding war between the Dragons. This ingenious little camping stove stores the power it generates while you're cooking, and that can later be used to charge electronics. We reviewed it last summer and remain impressed by its portability and simplicity. An essential for any hungry outdoor enthusiast.  
Available from Amazon from £85

13. For the perfect shot: the Manfrotto compact tripod

If you fancy yourself a bit of a photographer and want to experiment with some longer exposures, a tripod should be the top of your kit list. We use a Manfrotto Compact tripod – it's lightweight, easy to set up and the head moves in all directions, meaning you can shoot at any angle you like. Its maximum height is five feet gives your camera an excellent vantage point, and when you're on the move it folds away to a length of just 17 inches – plus it comes with a carry bag.
Available from Amazon from £50 

14. The ultimate all-rounder: Osprey's Sojourn 60

Whether you want to backpack across southeast Asia or explore Europe by car, this suitcase is perfect for all eventualities. It's super versatile, with wheels for when you're too tired to carry it and backpack straps for when you have to haul it up the stairs. It's 60 litres, so there's plenty of room for all the essentials – and perhaps a few non-essentials – plus it comes with the "All Mighty" lifetime repair guarantee.
Available from Amazon from £190 

 

A post shared by Osprey® Europe (@ospreyeurope) on Oct 6, 2017 at 9:01am PDT

15. For music on the go: JBL Flip 4 speakers

If you can't possibly travel without your tunes, this is the travel gadget for you. These waterproof speakers (yes, you can swim with them if you must) weigh just over one pound and connect to your device via bluetooth. If you've more than one, you can link them up to amplify the fun, and the rechargeable battery will play up to 12 hours of music non-stop.
Available from Amazon from £89

16. For private parties: B&O noise-cancelling headphones 

These compact earphones offer great sound quality, they're light weight and comfortable in the ear and best of all: there's a noise cancelling setting. No more straining to hear the in-flight entertainment during take-off. The only downside is that the noise-cancelling functionality needs recharging, which can't be done while using it. 
Available from Amazon from £129

17. For mile-high cocktails: a carry-on cocktail kit

Because sometimes you still want to feel sophisticated, even 30,000 feet in the air. This fun little kit will pimp up your mini bottle of whisky from the trolley into a passable Old Fashioned. It comes with aromatic bitters, a spoon/muddler, cane sugar and even a coaster. 
Available from Harvey Nichols from £16

Javier Somoza/Shutterstock

18. For savvy space-saving: Colgate Pocket-Pro electric toothbrush

There’s no worse feeling than going back to manual after you’ve been used to a lifetime of electric toothbrushing, yet so many of us do when we travel. This isn’t the most exciting piece of travel kit but it’s a space-saver, and space is like gold dust for anyone who’s partial to a souvenir or two. Instead of hauling your usual toothbrush and its cables and charging station, take the Colgate Pocket-Pro which comes in its own case and is rechargeable by micro USB cable. The bristles probably aren't quite as tough as your home toothbrush though, so you wouldn't want to use it for more than a few days. 
Available from Amazon from £18.99

We asked our readers where they recommend for a trip in 2018. We got more than 3,500 votes, so here are the top 20 destinations loveEXPLORING readers chose.

1. Italy

From the ancient streets of Rome with its famous Colosseum to the high-end shopping hotspot of Milan and the picturesque towns that line the pretty Amalfi Coast to the world-renowned vineyards of rural Tuscany, Italy is packed with bucket-list destinations. Add in the spectacular cuisine, sensational wine and colourful culture and it’s not hard to see why Italy tops the list with over 15% of our readers choosing the country their number one recommendation for travel in 2018.

2. Croatia

This sun-soaked Balkan country sits just across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, sharing its climate and mirroring its coastline. But this European idyll couldn’t be more different. With more than a thousand islands to its name, Croatia is a superb cruise destination, with many departures leaving from the famous walled-city of Dubrovnik. Its interior is just as beautiful with national parks like Plitviče (pictured) and Krka promising some breathtaking hikes among waterfalls. Head inland on the Istrian Peninsula for gorgeous hilltop towns with plenty of super Croatian hospitality. 

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3. Spain

Despite the unrest in Catalonia after this year’s referendum, our readers still placed Spain in the top three destinations for 2018. With overtourism an increasing problem in Barcelona, 2018 is a great year to check out the highlights of Madrid, the country’s capital. If you’re looking for a beach break away from the traditional haunts of the Costa del Sol, Gran Canaria and Majorca, head north to the ruggedly beautiful, emerald-green coastlines of Asturias and Cantabria. If you want to really get away from the crowds though, try these hidden highlights of Andalucía.

4. Greece

This striking country is famous for its idyllic beach breaks, delicious mezze-style cuisine, fascinating ancient sites and passionate people. Greece has one of Europe’s longest coastlines, second only to Norway, thanks to the thousands of islands that dot the sparkling waters of the Aegean. Meanwhile, the mainland is home to jagged peaks that tower high above tranquil lakes and it’s not surprising that these magnificent natural landscapes inspired some of western civilisation’s oldest myths and legends.

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5. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Famed the world over for its bicycle-friendly streets and intricate canal system lined with narrow gabled houses, our readers voted Amsterdam the top city-break destination for 2018. For many, the cheerful Dutch capital epitomises modern Europe with its liberal outlook, inclusive culture and friendly residents. While the city’s nightlife may have once had a slightly seedy reputation, today evenings in Amsterdam are centred around the thriving theatre and ballet scene with a drink at a stylish cocktail bar to follow.

6. Prague, the Czech Republic

Sat on the banks of the Vltava River, the Czech Republic’s capital city was another popular choice with our readers. Having played a major part in the Bohemian Reformation, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ is packed full of legacy artworks and architecture. Its cobbled lanes, hidden gardens and ancient chapels make this a great city to get lost in, while evenings are best reserved for sampling one of the country's most famous exports – beer.

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7. Paris, France

Think of Paris and you can almost hear the accordion music as you imagine yourself strolling along the Seine in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower savouring a delicious pastry. But while Paris has not lost its sense of romanticism, you shouldn’t be fooled into thinking that this is all that the French capital has to offer. Once you’ve ticked the Louvre and Notre Dame of your list, venture into the Bastille or Canal Saint-Martin areas for a glimpse of life in the modern city. Paris isn't just a superb summer escape, either – here's why we love it in winter.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

Finding its way into the top ten, Portugal’s hillside coastal city continues to grow in popularity with our readers. And it’s not just for the Fado music and delicious pasteis de nata (custard tarts). Lisbon is a fantastic example of a city that has seamlessly blended its traditions with its modern culture. Drinking on the streets is also legal here, so as night falls, be sure to check out Bairro Alto, which transforms into one big party.

TTstudio/Shutterstock

9. Budapest, Hungary

If you’re a lover of striking architecture, Budapest is the city for you. Split by the Danube, you’ll find the pretty boulevards and Bohemian culture of Pest to the east of the Chain Bridge, and the grand palace, gothic parliament and delightful spas of Buda to the west. The city is particularly magical during the festive season with the smell of gingerbread and marzipan drifting through cobbled streets that are lined by softly twinkling lights.

10. Berlin, Germany

Inextricably linked to the politically charged events that have happened here, Berlin is a city that does not hide from its past. And while it beautifully memorialises significant historic events, it also looks towards the future with its inclusive culture, contemporary architecture and friendly atmosphere. Berlin’s slightly off-beat hipster vibe is evident in its quirky coffee shops and funky bars, giving it a feel unlike any other European capital city.

canadastock/Shutterstock

11. Iceland

This Arctic island country is one of those rare destinations that’s spectacular at any time of year. The short, white days of winter are flooded with the soft glow of long sunrises and sunsets, while at night, the aurora borealis (northern lights) ribbon across the sky. The spring thaw turns countless waterfalls into thundering cascades and wildflowers sprinkle the landscape as the days lengthen into the warmth of summer. Autumn sees a drop in the number of visitors, making this a great time to enjoy the peace of the country – and get a good deal. Here's our guide to getting away from the crowds in Iceland, and don't miss out on the highlights its small but special capital has to offer.

12. Norway

Snow-topped mountains, glacier-carved fjords and the dazzling northern lights; Norway is best known for its dramatic natural landscapes. And with such breathtaking outdoor playgrounds on offer, it’s no surprise that adventure travel is booming here. Home of the Vikings, this sea-faring Scandinavian country’s culture is heavily linked to the water and a stay in a cosy rorbu (a fisherman's house) by the shore is an increasingly popular alternative to the slightly disconnected feel of a chain hotel.

Glenn Pettersen/Shutterstock

13. Malta

With the country’s capital of Valletta named as the co-host of the European Capital of Culture for 2018, our readers showed that Malta was an obvious choice when they voted it into the top 20 destinations for next year. While the main island has plenty to offer in terms of its picturesque landscapes and diverse history, Gozo is renowned as one of Europe’s best dive spots.

14. Cyprus

While known primarily for its intriguing ancient history, beautiful beaches and eastern Mediterranean climate, Cyprus is also known as a country divided. Turkey rules to the north and Greece to the south. Although the strain that the island’s complex modern history has put on the relationship between its two Cypriot communities is inescapable, the residents are no less welcoming to visitors and a trip here offers an insight into two separate cultures and their spectacular cuisines. 

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15. Austria

High culture, classical music and fine baroque architecture – Austria definitely has a reputation as a place to enjoy the finer things of life. Its palatial Habsburg legacy is imprinted on the country, with reminders of its Imperial past dotted in the cities and towns that are found between alpine-covered peaks. One of the best ways to see the natural beauties of Austria is by train, with an abundance of railways that cruise between the Alps.

16. Slovenia

Bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, this beautiful, often overlooked country has the best of each of its neighbours while retaining its own unique and beguiling identity. Over half of Slovenia is covered in forest, making it one of Europe’s greenest destinations with its emerald-coated peaks and gently flowing rivers. But its natural beauty doesn’t stop there – there are sparkling seas, soothing spas, picturesque saltpans and intricate limestone cave systems to enjoy.

Slovenia Tourism

17. Copenhagen, Denmark

The Scandinavian capital of cool, Copenhagen blends its Viking past with an endlessly trendy modern culture. Home to no less than 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s been something of a culinary revolution happening here over the last decade, and while dining out might not be cheap, it’s certainly worth it. While neighbouring Norway recently toppled Denmark’s reign as the happiest place to live, when walking the clean, green, urban streets of its capital, its no surprise that the country retained its crown for so long.

18. London, England

The English capital has had a tough year with a spate of horrific terror incidents across the city resulting in tragedy. But our readers have shown their support for the resilience of London by voting it in their top 20 destinations for 2018. Whether you want to embark on a treasure hunt around the city, be immersed in a theatrical Great Gatsby-themed evening of entertainment, break out of a Harry Potter-inspired escape room or play boozy crazy golf, there’s always something new and fun to try in London. Read our guide to London here.

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19. Kraków, Poland

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kraków was once the royal capital of Poland and the evidence is written all over its buildings. Occupied by the Nazis during WWII, their seeming admiration for the city saved it from the devastating bombings that befell the rest of the country. While there are sad hallmarks of the past dotted around Kraków, there’s also a definite sense of the modern. Packed with restaurants and bars, this is a great place for a night out.

20. Turkey

Turkey's had a tough few years, with war on its far eastern border (check the FCO for advice before travelling in certain regions), but this didn't deter our readers from naming this diverse country as their final recommendation for 2018. From the hauntingly beautiful intricacies of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys to the pristine beaches of Antalya and the relaxing thermal spa terraces of Pamukkale, this is a historic land offering some of the most delicious Mediterranean cuisine you’ll ever taste.