The Best Places to Travel in 2015

The new year has finally arrived — do you know where you’ll be traveling yet? We’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel this year, from top cities celebrating special occasions to exotic, (relatively) undiscovered destinations.

Whether you want to visit a remote island, take a once-in-a-lifetime adventure vacation, try out river cruising, or explore a new city, you’re sure to find the ideal destination on our Insider list of the best places to travel in 2015!

1. Greenland

Polar bears, glaciers, icebergs, the Northern Lights — nature is truly stunning in Greenland. Those looking for an arctic adventure will find everything they want in Greenland, with opportunities for dog sledding, whale watching, cultural discovery and more.

2. Cuba

The newly eased travel restrictions to Cuba are bringing the country’s rich heritage, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches to center stage. Normal tourist travel isn’t yet permitted, but if you pick a tour operator with a permit to operate people-to-people tours, you can be on your way to Cuba.

3. Singapore

Singapore is bound to be hot this year, as the country celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence. Celebrations and special events will take place all across the country, so it’s the perfect time to discover both its classic heritage and modern marvels.

4. Lithuania

In January, Lithuania joined the Eurozone, meaning it will be easier than ever for travelers to enjoy its charms — and there are many. UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous beaches, lush forests, medieval castles — need we say more?

5. Nicaragua

Much like Colombia, Nicaragua is overcoming its less-than-perfect past and welcoming travelers into its emerging luxury ecotourism scene. There are fabulous resorts, charming colonial towns and plenty of ways to escape into tropical nature.

6. Memphis

Elvis Presley would have had his 80th birthday in 2015 — and Memphis is celebrating in his honor. The Guest House at Graceland is set to open in the fall, while the Memphis Music Hall of Fame’s new museum and the Blues Hall of Fame are scheduled to open in the spring.

7. Cape Town

The best thing about Cape Town? Where to start! “Cape Town offers all the best of African food, wine, design, and culture, in the most amazing setting,” says luxury travel expert Jeffrey Ward, of Savvy Navigator. “Any time you have mountains meeting the ocean, the views are breathtaking.”

8. Papua New Guinea

This island might just be one of the most exotic places left on the planet. Our advice? Get there while that’s still the case. With more than 750 different tribes and 10 times the marine diversity of the Caribbean, it’s an ideal place to immerse yourself in cultural discovery and natural wonders.

9. Nevis

If you’re looking for a luxury Caribbean getaway next year, this lush island (birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, whose face you see on $10 bills) is the place for it. With only 420 hotel rooms on the entire island, you’ll feel practically alone as you indulge at upscale resorts, bask in beautiful nature, and discover authentic Caribbean culture.

10. India

The up-and-coming trend in India? River cruising on the Ganges. New luxury vessels, more cruise lines, and more itinerary options are on their way, giving travelers a new and unique way to see the iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path gems of the country. So sail away on this trend before the crowds.

11. Norway

“Frozen” fever has showed no sign of slowing down — and now fans of the Disney film are flocking to Norway, which served as the inspiration for the popular movie. And who can blame them? Norway boasts spectacular scenery, Northern Lights viewing, and charming Scandinavian towns and culture.

No matter the place you choose to travel, make sure you keep a budget in mind. Going into debt after a splurge-filled vacation can have implications long past your sunburn’s disappearance. The lifetime cost of debt is staggering and maxing out your credit cards can have credit score implications you may not expect.