Roundup of Amazing Destination Posts from 2018 and Inspiration for the New Year

Hello Friends! I hope you and your loved ones have had a wonderful holiday season. Today is a good day to look back on the amazing trips taken by bloggers around the internet, as well as a few of the favorites from here on Pannali Travels. Be inspired to plan your new year’s adventures with these amazing destinations and itineraries.

North America

Seattle and Bainbridge Island

First, is the recap of great things to do in Seattle and on Bainbridge Island. This post was fun to write because it is so close to my heart. My mom grew up on Bainbridge Island and we still have family there. If you get a chance, it’s definitely worth it to experience the amazing Pacific Northwest in Seattle.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this post by the Adventures of A+K with 6 more Seattle day trips.

Disney

If you have kids, or just are children at heart, be sure to check out Travel the World Without Breaking the Bank’s posts on how to do Disney. I haven’t been to Disney in over 20 years, but her tips are so good, it makes me think we should all go!

Zion National Park

For those who are feeling adventurous, She Dreams of Alpine’s guide to hiking Angels Landing at Zion National Park is perfect for planning the hike. At only 5 miles, it looks like a great afternoon hike to see that beautiful part of the world. I have it on my list to do the next time I can manage to get to the USA.

Palm Beach

If you want the magic of Christmas time plus the warmth of a winter vacation, it’s not too late to experience the lights and beauty of Palm Beach this time of year.

Mexico City

Laura gives a realistic look at like as a long-term expat in her recap of lie in Mexico City. If you want to experience Mexico City like a local, be sure to check out her post.

Middle East

Jordan

For those thinking of heading to the Middle East, The Adventurous Flashpacker’s posts on Jordan give a fantastic flavor of the area. Check out this post on how to hike to the trails of Petra including the Monastery trail for inspiration and practical tips on how best to experience the area.

South America

This year was the year of South America for me, with both a trip to Bolivia for 2 weeks and then nearly two months spent in Guyana.

Bolivia

You can see my recap of unique things to do in Bolivia over on Laura’s blog. The diversity and rich cultural heritage of this country make it an untapped gem in tourism of more classic destinations like Ecuador and Peru. See why Bolivia is so special.

Argentina, Chile, and Colombia

Check out the Practical Wanderlust’s post on 30 things no one tell you about backpacking in South America. Whatever your style of travel, if you’ve ever been to South America you will find yourself nodding and smiling as you read. And if you’re planning a trip for the coming year, it’s definitely worth checking out!

Asia

Japan

I plan to share with you all my adventures in Japan in the coming year, but until then, please check out At Downtime Street’s posts on Japan to learn the best things to do in Tokyo.  I found the recap to mostly mirror my experience – with a few unique differences you’ll have to come back to hear about in 2019!

Tibet

I wrote the first of a series on my experiences in Tibet this year. Tibet is a life-transforming experience for anyone who goes. Read all about the Tibetan concept of giving and gratitude as you step into the New Year. Big World, Small Pocket’s recap of Lhasa, Tibet, is also very moving.

Philippines

Where in the World s Nina provides detailed itineraries. This one of the Philippines has me thinking how soon I can get there for Island hopping and beauty

Europe

I am proud and happy to call Europe home. That doesn’t mean I’ve written nearly enough posts about Europe yet. In fact, we’re just beginning to scratch the surface. But there will be more to come in 2019, and for now: here are a few all-stars:

London, UK

If you are traveling solo, London is an excellent first time destination. There is so much to do. I also love London for a quick stopover on the way to other destinations Be sure to check out these posts on what to do alone or in a very short time! If you are traveling with family, It’s a Lovely Life’s blog on how to find the perfect family tea in London is full of fun suggestions.

Belgium

No one can visit Belgium without eating lots of chocolate and waffles. This guide will help you find the best chocolate shops in and around Brussels to make the most of your Belgium holiday.

Wander Her Way’s recap of the best things to do in Antwerp, Belgium is also a good starting point for Belgium tourism. I’d add to her list that in Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world, you should just wander the streets admiring all the incredible jewelry displays!

Germany, Belgium, and France

For those who have a trip to Europe planned for the end of the year or the first week of 2019, many of the Christmas markets on this list will still be open. Enjoy the festivities of the extended Holiday Season!

Frankfurt

While visiting Germany, you can also check out the best things to do in Frankfurt.

Norway

I love the Gutsy Travel’s post about Norway in the summer. The pictures are spectacular, and their recap gives some ideas to make Norway more accessible on any budget.

Portugal

My big birthday trip this year was to Portugal, and you can see the recaps of all the adventures on the blog. I recommend starting in Lisbon, exploring Cascais and Nazare before taking a flight to the Azores for more undiscovered beauty.

Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Region

Australia and New Zealand offer incredible natural beauty and adventure activities, perfect for those who love to be in nature. I plan to share with you many of the best beaches and adventures I’ve had in that part of the world in the coming year. For now, enjoy Our Passport Family’s recap of Moorea and Bora Bora. Even the photos look like paradise!

Gadsventure also has many posts on family travel around Australia; including the best surf spots and little know local secrets.

Caribbean

We conclude our roundup with the Caribbean, known for its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle.

Barbados

For me this was also the year of Barbados, and you can see all the posts on it here on the blog, from the best food and organic product to the best beaches and photos.

Curacao

Curacao is another amazing island destination outside of the hurricane belt. Check out this post to find the best things to do in Curacao.

General Travel Tips

Finally, there are so many great general travel tips out there. Here are just a few that will be helpful in planning your next trip:

• The Professional Hobo’s recap of Hidden Travel Costs and How to Avoid Them
• Dame Traveler’s Post on Cruising from a Former Non-Cruiser
• Save Money on Last Minute Travel
• How to Take the Stress out of Travel
• How to Avoid Weight Gain While Traveling
• Sleep Better While Traveling

Wishing you a wonderful new year

As we prepare to end the year, I wish you many more wonderful travels in the New Year. Be sure to bookmark this page for inspiration whenever the desire to travel strikes.

Until next time,

Kimberly

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