Best Cities to Visit in 2019, According to Travel Experts
Thinking of widening your horizons in the coming year, but still have no idea where to go? If you’d like to skip the usual destinations you see on your Instagram feed, Lonely Planet has recently released a list of 10 of the best cities to visit based on vote made by travel experts. From Asia to Europe, these places aren’t on the usual turista agenda, but will nevertheless give you the adventure you’ve been looking for:
1| Copenhagen, Denmark
This European city takes the top spot on the list. Experience hygge (pronounced as “hoo-gah”), a word which connotes all the cozy feelings felt in a warm, safe place, in this homey city. Walk or bike through its parks and visit cheap but healthy eats in places such as Sonny and Hooked.
2| Shenzhen, China
If you’re heading to Hong Kong, might as well get a visa and fly over to Shenzhen, which is just a few ways away from the famous business capital. Totally metropolitan, you'll enjoy moving from streets littered with high-rise buildings to small alleys with secret art stores and galleries, dotted by deliciously cheap noodle restos that hit the spot.
3| Novi Sad, Serbia
Considered the second largest city in this southeastern European country, Novi Sad has a very rich architectural history. Many beautiful Old World structures can easily be visited: In fact, Trg Slobode, which is the largest city square, has been there since the 18th century, and many of the monuments and building surrounding it date as far back as the 1700s.
4| Miami, USA
Miami isn’t just about the beaches. Booming with an interesting nightlife, this city is also home to many artists, interesting modern architectural wonders, and a year-round slew of food festivals.
5| Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu continues to rise above the damage caused by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that happened in 2015. A bustling city that’s home to both traditional Hindu and Buddhist sites as well as clubs and casinos, it thrives on tourism, as it stands as the gateway to the Himalayas.
The list also includes:
6| Mexico City, Mexico
7| Dakar, Senegal
8| Seattle, USA
9| Zadar, Croatia
10| Meknes, Morocco
As always, if you’re planning to fly out to a new destination, it’s important to be a good traveler. After all, you’re basically a visitor in someone’s home. Here are a few tips to help you remain classy in a foreign country:
Ask.
As a National Graphic feature noted, “Stop acting like you know.” Be open to being guided by locals because they know best.
Show respect.
There will always be things in another person’s culture that won’t agree with your personal beliefs, but remember, you’re there as an observer and as a person looking for a different perspective in life. Respect the tradition of the country you’re visiting, and moreover...
Be mindful of your manners.
Do your research as to which words, gestures, or actions the locals of the country you’re traveling to may find offensive. Give yourself time to be familiar with phrases that connote respect, and be mindful of your destination’s forms of etiquette. You’re less likely to get into any sort of trouble if you’re in the know.
Keep your phone and have fun.
Taking photos and sharing them on social media is great, but don’t forget that you’re right smack in the middle of an adventure of a lifetime. Remember how to live in the moment so you won’t miss out on an awesome experience!
This story originally appeared on Femalenetwork.com. Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.
