Travel Trends in 2019
- Best Overall Destination: Memphis
- Best for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Rapid City
- Best for History Buffs: San Antonio
- Best Bucket List Destination: Tokyo
- Best for Plant Moms: Portland
- Best for Geeks: Los Angeles
- Best for Sports Fans: Toronto
- Best Party Town: London
- Best for Beer Snobs: Atlanta
- Best for Brunch: Denver
- Best for Café Culture: Miami
- Best for Fine Dining: Mexico City
- Best for Your Sweet Tooth: New York City
- Best for Food Obsessed: Houston
- Best for Beach Bums: Hawaiian Islands
- Best Budget Destination: Berlin
- Best for Families: Chicago
- Best for Art & Design: Helsinki
- Best for LGBTQ Travelers: India
- Best for Romance: Milwaukee
- Best for Coffee Snobs: Minneapolis
Best Overall Destination for 2019: Memphis
Memphis, TN, USA
Memphis is a hotbed of activity with newly renovated establishments and attractions. You can dine at numerous restaurants at Crosstown Concourse, and visit old establishments like the Memphis Pink Palace Museum, which has reopened after renovations. The city’s new attractions, including the Hu Hotel and Old Dominick distillery, add excitement to your visit.
Natural beauty awaits, with bike paths that connect various areas of the city, offering cyclist opportunities to explore the outdoors.
Best Destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Rapid City
Rapid City, SD, USA
Rapid City is the perfect starting point for exploring the Black Hills, including attractions such as Badlands National Park and Custer State Park, both celebrating significant anniversaries in 2019. As you stroll through the streets of Rapid City, enjoy local shops and the “City of Presidents” exhibit featuring life-size president statues across town.
Best Destination for History Buffs: San Antonio
San Antonio, TX, USA
Founded in 1718, San Antonio is rich in history, with the famous Alamo and five missions recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore luxurious historic hotels, such as the St. Anthony and Hotel Emma, showcasing the city’s transformation.
Best Bucket List Destination: Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
With the Tokyo Olympics on the horizon and various renovations underway, 2019 offers an incredible opportunity to experience the city’s historical and cultural scenes before the crowds arrive. Visit renowned areas such as Golden Gai and Shibuya Stream, which is set for major upgrades.
Best Destination for Plant Moms: Portland
Portland, OR, USA
Renowned for its greenery, Portland boasts a 5,100-acre forest reserve, Forest Park, with over 70 miles of trails. Highlights include the International Rose Test Garden and impressive parks, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking nature in an urban setting.
Best Destination for Geeks: Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Los Angeles offers a plethora of activities for geeks and pop culture enthusiasts, from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to the Academy Museum. It is also a hub for conventions and themed attractions, ensuring ample opportunities to immerse yourself in your favorite fandoms.
Best for Sports Fans: Toronto
Toronto, ON, Canada
Toronto is home to a vibrant sports scene, featuring multiple professional teams including the NBA’s Raptors. The city is an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts, offering exciting games and a thriving sports culture.
Best Party Town: London
London, UK
With a lively nightlife scene, London offers an enticing mix of bars, clubs, and casual hangouts. Iconic venues and modern establishments provide something for everyone, ensuring countless memorable nights out.
Best for Beer Snobs: Atlanta
Atlanta, GA, USA
Home to nearly 20 breweries, Atlanta is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts. With a range of local breweries, including SweetWater Brewing and Atlanta Brewing Company, there’s no shortage of unique flavors to experience in this bustling city.
Best for Brunch: Denver
Denver, CO, USA
Denver is becoming a hotspot for brunch, with popular spots like Snooze A.M. Eatery gaining an immense following. With a diverse food scene growing rapidly, there is no shortage of delicious dining options to enjoy for a leisurely weekend brunch.
Best for Café Culture: Miami
Miami, FL, USA
Miami’s café scene is thriving, known for its café con leche and emerging third-wave coffee shops. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with a vibrant community feel, offering plenty of spots to relax, enjoy quality brews, and people-watch.
Best for Fine Dining: Mexico City
Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico
Mexico City boasts an exceptional fine dining scene in 2019, with renowned restaurants such as Pujol and Quintonil. Innovative dining experiences are thriving, showcasing a blend of local flavors and contemporary cuisine that excite any food lover.
Best for Your Sweet Tooth: New York City
New York, NY, USA
New York City is home to a variety of delightful desserts, from classic chocolate chip cookies to innovative ice cream flavors. Bakery culture continues to thrive, offering unique desserts that are not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Best for the Food Obsessed: Houston
Houston, TX, USA
Houston’s culinary landscape is as diverse as the city itself, featuring various cuisines and innovative dining experiences. With exciting options like UB Preserv and numerous food trucks, food lovers will find endless culinary delights to explore.
Best Destination for Beach Bums: Hawaiian Islands
Hawaii, USA
Hawaii remains a coveted destination for sun-seekers, with its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant culture. With new flight routes making travel easier, it’s an excellent time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and rich experiences the islands have to offer.
Best Budget Destination: Berlin
Berlin, Germany
Known for its affordability, Berlin offers a wealth of free attractions, including parks, museums, and historical sites. With budget-friendly accommodations and local discounts, this city is perfect for families and travelers seeking an economical getaway.
Best Destination for Families: Chicago
Chicago, IL, USA
Chicago offers an array of family-friendly accommodations and attractions, including world-class museums and interactive exhibits, making it the perfect destination for families. New hotels make it easy for visitors to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Best Destination for Art & Design: Helsinki
Helsinki, Finland
The vibrant art scene in Helsinki is thriving, with new installations, museums, and initiatives that showcase contemporary works. A visit to Amos Rex and Oodi Central Library offers unique cultural experiences worth exploring in this artistic city.
Best Destination for LGBTQ Travelers: India
India
As India moves forward after the historic decriminalization of homosexuality in 2018, it has become a welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers. Major events like Mumbai Pride draw visitors, and organizations offer authentic experiences catering to the community.
Best for Romance: Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI, USA
Milwaukee offers a romantic atmosphere with beautiful lakeside views and cozy accommodations like The Pfister Hotel. Couples can enjoy eclectic dining, summer strolls along the shoreline, and intimate experiences amidst the city’s unique charm.
Best for Coffee Snobs: Minneapolis
Minneapolis, MN, USA
Renowned for its coffee culture, Minneapolis is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. The city is filled with independent shops where locals gather, offering high-quality brews and a warm community atmosphere that welcomes coffee lovers all year round.
