DREAMWORTHY DESTINATIONS

Egypt

One of the world’s oldest civilizations hails from the fertile valleys and stunning deserts of Egypt, where you’ll find towering, ancient structures, including temples and pyramids, as well as ornate churches and religious complexes, and inspiring history and art museums. Egpyt is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the West Bank, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the Red Sea to the east.

Plan to visit this cradle of civilization and culture between October and April, but try to avoid traveling there during December and January, as this is the peak of tourist season and many popular attractions may be uncomfortably crowded. Avoid visiting Egypt during the summer months, as temperatures can rise above 95 degrees with intense humidity.

10 Hotspots to Consider:

Temple of Karnak
Abu Simbel Temple Complex
Coptic Orthodox Church
Valley of the Kings
White Desert National Park
Luxor Temple
Great Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu)
Sharm El Luli
Great Sphinx
Pyramids of Giza

France

Situated in Western Europe, France is a nation of many distinct geographical and cultural hotspots. From charming towns and picturesque landscapes in Provence to chic beaches on the French Riviera to iconic destinations in Paris, France offers something special for every type of traveler. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Spain and the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the nations of Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Italy to the east.

Though the weather in France is pretty mild year-round, summers can get hot and winters tend to be cold and rainy. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when crowds are lower and the weather is optimal.

10 Hotspots to Consider:

Paris
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Montmartre District
- Seine River
Provence
French Riviera
Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy Coast
Burgundy
French Alps

Bali

Indonesia Beyond Bali

Bali has been a trending hotspot in recent years, but the island nation of Indonesia offers so many beautiful choices that you shouldn’t just stop at one. With more than 18,000 islands scattered between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia features a range of geographically and culturally diverse hotspots, including pink sand beaches, staggering waterfalls, volcanoes, temples, and so much more.

Indonesia experiences a typically warm, tropical climate throughout the year, but if you’re looking to avoid the heaviest rainy season, then visit between the months of May and September. The heaviest downpours tend to occur between October and April.

*Steer clear of Nyepi Day (March Bali) and Ramadan -- things can and will completely close and may impact the trip

10 Hotspots to Consider:

Kalimantan
Mt. Bromo (East Java)
Borobudur
Prambanan
Lombok
Gili Islands
Komodo National Park
Padar Island (Rinca Island Pink Beach)
Manta Point
Raja Ampat (Considered the Maldives of Indonesia)

Cartagena

Located on Colombia’s northern coast, this Caribbean port city features a bustling urban environment with rich cultural experiences, as well as laid-back, natural surroundings that include breathtaking white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The city is situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Bay of Cartagena.

Due to its location near the equator, Cartagena features a tropical climate that includes rainy seasons from April to May and September to November. Therefore, the best times to visit the northern Colombian port city are between December and early April, when the weather is warm but the humidity is more manageable. Expect higher crowds during Holy Week in December-January, but locals say the increase in crowds only makes experiences like Cartagena’s nightclub scene more fun.

10 Hotspots to Consider:

San Felipe Castle
Ciudad Amurallada
Playa Blanca, Baru Island
Mercado de Bazurto
Caribe Jewelry Museum & Factory Store
Bairro Getsemani
Oceanario, Islas del Rosario
Chiva Bus Party
Playa Azul
Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver

South Africa

Whether you’re looking for an adventure that includes wildlife sightings and interactions, hoping to relax in wine country, or planning to explore a bustling city-center, South Africa has it all. Despite its volatile history, the nation offers travelers the opportunity for epic visits alongside staggering natural wonders, as well as eye-opening cultural experiences. The country is situated at the southern tip of the African continent along the Indian Ocean and shares a border with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

South Africa is a sprawling country with many different geographical regions, and for this reason, the best time of year to visit can vary, depending on your travel goals. If you’re planning to visit the southwestern coast and Cape Town, visit during the months of February and March when it’s the warm summer season. On the other hand, if you’re interested in whale watching off the southern coast, consider traveling during South Africa’s cooler season between the months of July and November. May to August is a great time to visit the country’s wildlife parks, and June to October is best for visiting the delta region.

10 Hotspots to Consider: