2022 promises to be a bumper year for holidays, with an increased global appetite for international travel after two years of travel restrictions. With the world more or less open for business, there are hundreds of destinations that will pique the interest of family holidaymakers and solo travellers alike – but there are some placed that are uniquely poised to be the best destinations to visit this year. The below suggestions constitute four of these locations, dotted around the world and each with their own compelling reasons to visit.
Japan
Japan has enjoyed a surge in popularity since its hosting of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, despite restrictions on attendance at the time. An utterly vibrant country teeming with heritage and activity across its islands and archipelagos, 2022 sees the crowning of a new transport system in form of the West Kyushu Shinkansen. The new bullet train line connects the port town of Nagasaki with the hot spring town Takeo Onsen, increasing accessibility to some truly beautiful locales as well as increasing possibilities for travellers.
Egypt
Egypt has been a popular international destination for decades, hosting as it does a wealth of well-preserved archaeological history – as well as some premier spots for diving off its coast. 2022 is a special year for the country, marking 100 years of independence from the British empire – and also the centenary of Howard Carter’s discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Between two dates of historical significance and the wide variety of wonders to be discovered across the country, an Egypt tour would be the best way to experience Egypt’s breadth of cultural and historical attractions.
Menorca
The Balearic island of Menorca has a rich tourist culture, being a major resort destination for UK families thanks to its beautiful beaches and many resort hotels. But Menorca is far more than its reputation with UK travel agencies; the island is the European Region for Gastronomy 2022, indicating the variety and cultural value of its incredible food establishments. On top of some serious investment in the arts, Menorca is also touted to be one of the most sustainable holiday destinations in the western hemisphere.
New Orleans
New Orleans precedes itself as a city of festivity, home to more than one world-renowned festival on top of a thriving cultural and gastronomical scene. New Orleans also hasn’t been itself for some time, between the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ida and the restrictions imposed by coronavirus. But 2022 is the year that the jewel of Louisiana bounces back with a bang, with Mardi Gras and New Orleans Jazz Festival both returning in full. The ‘Big Easy’ is an unforgettable visit, with friendly locals, multicultural exports and something to see or do around the clock.