National Geographic Traveler magazine has revealed its best-of list for where to go in 2018, including the 21 must-see destinations of the year divided into three categories.
"The number-one question we get from our 9.6 million readers is, 'Where should I go next?' Our Best of the World list responds to that question with 21 timely destinations that make for a year of transformative travels," said George Stone, National Geographic Traveler editor in chief.
The list is curated by the magazine's global staff.
"With 15 international editions, National Geographic Traveler has a global team of writers, photographers and travel experts who helped build our list and report on these stellar places," said Stone.
"We looked for cities that bustle with new energy and intrigue; parklands that percolate with vitality and ecological protection; and communities rich in local character that offer opportunities for cultural engagement. Packed with surprise, humor and relevance, our list advances our National Geographic mission to explore, conserve and share unforgettable stories about the best of our world," Stone added.
National Geographic Traveler will focus on three Best of the World designations in its upcoming issue: Dublin, Ireland; Oaxaca, Mexico; and Oahu's North Shore, Hawaii.
NatGeo calls Dublin "Europe's largest village," saying that the "intimate capital "exudes a friendly, village vibe." Visitors can explore the city's pub culture, unique museums and historical sites scattered throughout.
Oaxaca, Mexico is on the list for its ancient art of natural dyeing, and visitors covet the region's exquisite textiles. After a devastating earthquake, the magazine is encouraging travelers to support the Mexican town where visitors are more welcome than ever.
National Geographic is also encouraging visitors to experience the increasingly encroached-upon rural North Coast.
"Local farms, such as Poamoho and Kahuku, are helping (as the ubiquitous bumper stickers state) 'Keep the Country Country' by cultivating homegrown crops and agritourist experiences. Discover more about Oahu," notes NatGeo.
The full list is divided into three categories: cities, culture and nature.
Cities include Dublin, Ireland; Malmo, Sweden; Phnom Penh, Cambodia; San Antonio, Texas; Santiago, Chile; Sydney, Australia; and Tbilisi, Georgia.
Top cultural destinations include Cleveland, Ohio; Friesland, Netherlands; Harar, Ethiopia; Labrador, Canada; Oaxaca, Mexico; Tetouan, Morocco; and Vienna, Austria.
Nature destinations to visit in 2018 include Albania; Jordan Trail, Jordan; Jujuy Province, Argentina; Madagascar; Oahu, Hawaii; Ruaha NP, Tanzania; and Seoraksan National Park, South Korea.
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