6 Classic Destinations to Visit in 2016

January 4, 2016

For many experienced travelers, the desire to go somewhere new and different is ever present. But we think there's much to be said for rediscovering the classics as well. Especially if you travel there in a different way than you had before, or at a different age and place in life. There's no telling what new and wonderful facets will be revealed to you!

One of the best parts of returning somewhere is the chance to explore beyond what first time travelers tend to focus on seeing. Going on a repeat visit, you feel less pressure to see the tourist attractions and have more time to wander the side streets and visit smaller towns. 

Here are our picks of Classic Destinations to visit in 2016:

1. Italy

Italy

Pixabay

Romantic, full of history, and possessing some of the best local cuisine in the world, Italy is an old standard worth rediscovering over and over. You might want to explore the smaller wine regions or visit quaint coastal towns. Wander the cobblestones with a gelato in hand and absorb everything Italy has to offer.

3 Tours to Try in Italy

Artistic Italy
 Ultimate Italy with G Adventures

Highlights of Italy
 Highlights of Italy with Smithsonian Journeys

Taste of Emilia Romagna
 A Taste of Emilia Romagna with Explore!

2. Antarctica

Antarctica

Pixabay

We’ve chosen to call Antarctica a classic trip for its sheer intensity, and the fact that it still requires specific modes of transportation. It’s impossible to visit unless on a cruise or scientific expedition, but the number of operators offering trips there is steadily increasing.

3 Tours to Try in Antarctica

Antarctica Cruise
 Antarctica Cruise - Classic Voyage with REI

Journey to Antarctica
 Journey to Antarctica with National Geographic Expeditions

classic antarctica
 Classic Antarctica with Explore!

3. Brazil

Iguazzu Falls

Pixabay

It’s no surprise that a country as large as Brazil offers some of the most classic trips in the world. Marvel at the sheer intensity of Iguazu Falls, or float down the mysterious, majestic Amazon on a river cruise. The possibilities are endless, and one of the best ways to ensure you’ll see at least one if not more of these classic sites, is to visit with a guided tour.

3 Tours to Try in Brazil

Ultimate Brazil
 Ultimate Brazil with G Adventures

Rio Carnival
 Pure Brazil with Explore!

Rio de Janeiro
  Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon Rainforest with Go Ahead Tours

4. China

China

Pixabay

A visit to China will introduce you to spectacular sites such as the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Forbidden City. It is best to visit with a guide, as the language barrier can be a challenge for non native speakers, and they will allow you to truly immerse yourself in this beautiful country's history and landscape. Check out our article on 16 Days in Southern China to get some ideas!

3 Trips to Try in China

The Great Silk Road
 The Great Silk Road with Intrepid

Imperial China
 Imperial China & Yangtze River Gold Experience with Pacific Delight Tours

China's Cultural Delight
 China's Cultural Delight with Viking River Cruises

5. Tanzania

Tanzania

Pixabay

What could be a more classic trip to treat yourself to than an African safari? Delight in the spectacular landscape, dotted with impressive wildlife in their natural habitat. Local guides will know the best places to go for wildlife spotting and you will come away having had a truly unforgettable experience.

3 Tours to Try in Tanzania

Best of Tanzania
 Best of Tanzania with Sita World Tours

Essence of Tanzania
 Cycle Tanzania with Intrepid Travel

Tanzania Climb and Safari
 Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari with National Geographic Expeditions

6. Ireland

Ireland

The Emerald Isle. Not only is Ireland uncommonly beautiful, there are several different types of trip you can do here, making it one of the more diverse places warrenting return trip after return trip. Active adventure tourism in Ireland has become more popular, and its long, rich history means it's the perfect place for history tours. And of course, there's Guinness, which as they say, tastes different in Ireland than anywhere else. This author knows she can't wait to try out this theory on her return trip!

3 Tours to Try in Ireland

Cork and Kerry Walking Tour
 Cork and Kerry Walking Tour with Walking Connection

Magical Ireland
 Magical Ireland with Smartours

Dublin
 Dublin's Cultural Heritage with Road Scholar


 

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