PHOTO: The Hawaiian Islands are enjoying a resurgance of popularity. Pictured is the big island. (Photo courtesy Thinkstock)
If you're planning for a vacation, what are the hottest travel destinations? We asked travel agents to predict where you will want to visit in the next year.
Jamaica
Beth Johnston, a travel designer of Beth's Beautiful Getaways, went on a FAM trip to the Caribbean island in April, 2016 and was surprised that she loved it so much.
"I am not sure I would have recommended it to clients if I had not gone myself," she said. "The people are friendly and genuine. We visited 14 resorts in 4 days and at every single one of the staff and Jamaicans that we met were extremely helpful and always smiling. Their happiness was infectious."
With its beautiful beaches, breezes and waters, Jamaica is one of the most romantic places in the world. You can sail on Montego Bay, get cozy at The Blue Lagoon near Port Antonio and enjoy the Glistening Waters' Luminous Lagoon where the organisms glow an eerie, glistening light.
"I also like that the plane ride is reasonable both in length and price a big selling point for many clients," she said. "The island also has diversity. There are beautiful beaches, lush jungle areas, waterfalls and cultural activities. In other words, there is something for everyone."
Margie Lenau, travel consultant and owner of Wonderland Family Vacations, agrees. "Jamaica has some of the most beautiful beaches and friendliest people in the world," she said. "It's easy to travel around the island to see the mountains and the beaches for yourself. The Jamaican rum from Appleton Estates, Blue Mountain coffee, and jerk chicken are reason enough to visit here. How can you go wrong with places like Margaritaville or the Jamaican Bobsled Cafe, where they celebrate their 1988 Olympic win with good food and rum.
Lenau also recommends Dunn's River Falls, and Dolphin Cove where you can swim with the dolphins in the warm, tropical water. "This is such a friendly place, they offer a friendly welcome at Club Mobay when you arrive at the airport there," she said. "For a small fee you are met and escorted through customs and immigration with front-of-the-line service."
Hawaii
Samarah Meil said that Hawaii is making a resurgence. "I've particularly had more requests for Kauai," said Meil, of the Amarillo Travel Network. "I think the reason for its increased popularity is the fact that many people have done Oahu and Maui and are looking for something a bit more laid back and romantic."
In Kauai, you can hike Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park for just $1 per person or you can pay $5 for a driving tour. Explore the many beautiful waters in Kauai too. Kauai is also known for kayaking and mountain tubing, and there's so much of the island to explore.
Including Kauai, Hawaii has six main islands, and you can get up-close-and-personal with the island's many dormant volcanos, such as Mauna Kea and the famous Diamond Head Volcano State Landmark.
Hawaii is filled with a lot of rich history and The Pacific Aviation Museum and the USS Bowfin, dubbed the "Pearl Harbor Avenger," are must-sees.
Costa Rica
Johnston also said that Costa Rica is another hot destination. "Ease of getting there is one reason, plus Costa Rica, like Jamaica, also has diverse activities and areas," she said. "This Central American country is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, hot springs, waterfalls, tropical rainforests and incredible biodiversity. It is slightly smaller than West Virginia so you can literally drive only an hour away and the landscape changes. If you like zip lining through the jungle and your partner likes laying on the beach you will both be happy."
One of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica is Guanacaste, a province in the North Pacific Coast. It's known for its white sand beaches and parkland.
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