The New York Times published a fascinating list of the “41 places to Go in 2011”…looking over the list I realize that it would take the better part of a lifetime to visit all these sites, but we know that this is a cafeteria list, so you can pick the items that really call to you. The real emphasis of this fantastic menu is the year 2011, because the cities and venues are either hosting unique events or are on the cutting edge of what will soon become “in” destinations. So with this in mind, I started my search and found that most of the choices were not for your every day, follow-the-leader tourist who wants the security and convenience of pre-planned group tours…and that is an understatement! Oh sure, the average American vacationer can easily get to Durham, N.C. to explore the transformed tobacco factories and textile mills and enjoy the farmers’ market, great coffee and fun sandwiches. And certainly Miami’s art circuit is within the realm of possibility.
Budapest has been a must-see city for thousands of American tourist, but the reasons to visit in 2011 are not fascinating enough to encourage a repeat visit…recently gentrified sections, with new bars and a great new hotel.
Melbourne, Australia makes the list because of its lively arts scene and some new hotels and restaurants; this is good to know if you’re planning to be in Melbourne anyway.
Milan… the number of Americans traveling in Italy is huge, but not all get to Milan…it’s primarily an industrial city, but the magnificent cathedral has shed its scaffolding and reveals the original grandeur. Known as a fashionista’s Mecca and the shopping, they tell me, is not to be believed.
Let’s look at some of the amazing additions, not just old stand-bys updated: skiing in Republic of Georgia! That’s exciting to any skier who has skied or wants to ski in Europe!!! I’ve skied in Austria and Italy, but WOW, if I was still skiing I’d sure want to visit the 16,000 foot peaks and almost-virgin slopes…sounds amazing and cutting edge…A great addition to a skier’s bucket list.
Here’s one that really caught my attention: Niseko, Japan; the really new in spot for Australian skiers and well-to-do Asians. Great powder snow, fine restaurants, family owned inns and restful tatami rooms at the Suiboku inn. A new rail line is being built that will whisk you from Tokyo in less than four hours…this line will open in 21015, so pack your bags and get there before the crowds take over!
River cruising…not a new idea, but one that has grown in popularity over the past several years as newer ships come out and client emrace this option of “unpacking once,” and being in the center of a new town or city every day….Tauck has a riverboat that glides from Budapest to the Black Sea. Uniworld and Avalon Waterways both are launching new ships this river cruise season as well. Uniworld’s new ship is the SS Antoinette, and Avalon’s new ship is the Panorama. There’s also a new Kempinski Hotel in Bratislava (the capital of Slovakia).
London is gearing up the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. New hotels have been constructed and are already open…for example, the renovated Four Seasons at Park Lane, complete with a penthouse spa and restaurant seating in the private garden. A new W Hotel at Leicester Square opens in February. Outstanding chefs are opening restaurants at other hotels. Book ahead, the crowds are gathering! Want to attend the Royal Wedding? We can’t get you on the invite list, but there is still hotel space for the end of April on our Week in London vacations, or perhaps combine London and Paris.
Be the first on your block to visit Fogo Island off the coast of Newfoundland! Only 3000 residents, but the former saltbox houses are being transformed and the island is being introduced as an arts and ecological destination. There will be writers and artists , encouraged to come for an international residency program…charming bed and breakfast spots are available and the scenery is magnificent!
It’s a new year and it’s time to go over your own personal Bucket List and make plans …air fare keeps going up with rising fuel costs, so try to lock in your reservations within the next month or two.
Written by: Arlene N
arlene@atlastravelweb.com
