Looking to shake up your travelscapes in 2016? If so, the AFP has scouted out four locations that are not exactly off the beaten path but might be just the ticket if you want to mix it up a bit, travel-wise this year. For frequent flyers who’ve ticked off the tried and true, and for those looking for off-the-radar places, this new list offers alternative travel destinations and stand-ins for everyone from the beach-lounger, foodie and city lover. Again, this includes places like the Bahamas and Singapore so it really isn’t designed to push you out of your comfort zone. For that, check out this list.
Montreal instead of New Orleans, Louisiana
This one’s for the traveling gourmet. While NOLA boasts a rousing reputation for its edible offerings and Southern, Creole cuisine – think beignets, seafood gumbo and po’boys – Montreal is listed as the Canadian equal for its rich and diverse dining scene. Among the city’s culinary hall of famers? Smoked meat sandwiches from Schwartz’s deli; the Pied de Cochon’s insanely decadent poutine (fries, topped with cheese curds melting under hot gravy) with foie gras; or Le Garde-Manger’s lobster poutine. A weak Canadian dollar also makes travel to Canada particularly enticing right now.
French-Canadian poutine
Singapore over Dubai
Travelers with a taste for the high life may want to skip over Dubai for its Asian counterpart, Singapore. Like the glittering UAE city, Singapore also boasts soaring skyscrapers, palatial shopping malls like ION Orchard and Marina Bay Sands, and Michelin-grade dining. So much so that the bible of fine gastronomy announced plans to publish its first Singaporean edition in 2016, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Key West, not Maui
The island city of Key West is listed as a stand-in for Maui, with its gold sand beaches, sunsets and laid-back vibe – also a closer and more affordable destination for many travelers compared to Hawaii. An idyllic itinerary? Biking through the Old Town past restored Victorian homes and cottages, eating fresh seafood by the water and eating key lime pie on weathered picnic tables.
Barbados over The Bahamas
While The Bahamas may be a popular port of call for cruises, travelers looking for a quieter, less touristy beach vacation may want to consider the smaller Caribbean island of Barbados (pictured top). If you’re looking for a generic, all-inclusive resort, the Bahamas has those aplenty. But sun-lovers looking for a more authentic experience are better off booking a trip to Barbados which may be less developed, but offers a higher chance of soaking in the sun away from the madding crowds.
For more such destinations, especially for our readers in the Americas, please check out the source of this list.
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