Monday 19 October 2015

19 travel destinations for 2016 — and what to read while you're there

19. Jerusalem

jerusalem

In addition to a rich religious history, Jerusalem has a lot to offer modern tourists — from theWestern Wall to Temple Mount, there's plenty to keep you busy. After you've managed to work up an appetite, hop into a local restaurant and fill up on hummus and pita bread — although you must be warned, it'll be difficult to eat hummus outside of the middle east again. But, it's completely worth it.

18. Puerto Rico

puertorico

Puerto Rico is coming on the scene hot — with a vibrant night life and art scene to wow your senses. Meander around Old San Juan for your history fill, then relax on Rincón and take in those turquoise water views. This Caribbean destination is an uncontested must-see — be sure to check it out before it gets overrun with tourists.

17. Mexico

this is why we moved to Mexico

In the land of tequila and tacos, there's so much more to see — crystalline beaches and Chichen Itza being only two of them. Don't forget to stop for a swim in the jaw-dropping Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, you'll feel like you've been transported to another world entirely. Dig into one of these books on your bus ride back to town for the ultimate Mexican experience.

16. Hong Kong

hongkong

Get lost in the maze of street vendors and bright lights in the teeming neighborhoods of Hong Kong — try all of the food even if it looks a little unfamiliar, it'll be an adventure and story you can tell later. Take a bus or walk up to Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of the incredible Hong Kong skyline — just remember to pick a day with good weather and visibility. After you're finished racing around the city, take a tram to one of the quieter neighborhoods and settle in with one of these books.

15. Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

lasvegas

After you're finished at the blackjack table and you're looking to work off your hangover, bring one of these books poolside. Then walk all 4.2 miles of the Vegas strip so you can snag a hyperlapse video of the Bellagio fountains water show. Check out the classic parts of Vegas on Freemont street for a taste of the old heydays, then take a nap before heading out for the infamous nightlife all over again.

14. Budapest, Hungary

budapest

One of the most popular spots for vacationers heading to Eastern Europe, Budapest is rich with history and jaw-droppingly beautiful architecture along Castle Hill. When your feet are aching from exploring the city on foot, stop by the Széchenyi baths for a soak in one of their 15 heated pools. Here's a fast fact for you: The name of Budapest goes back to 1872, when the three independent cities of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda (Old Buda) were unified into a single city — take that to trivia night and wow your friends.

13. Zurich, Switzerland

zurich

Take a trip to visit the Swiss Alps, and after you're done skiing down the slopes, take a break in the lodge for some hot chocolate and one of these reads. Or, if you prefer the water over the mountain, try a boat trip on Lake Zurich. Take in the lush green slopes, luxurious waterside homes and a statue of Greek hero Ganymede.

12. Washington D.C., United States

washdc

After you've finished touring the White House halls and biking around the Washington Monument, take refuge in a local café and dig into one of these political thrillers. When you're finished, head over to Georgetown, and more specifically, Georgetown Cupcakes for some nationally-recognized sweet treats.

11. Vancouver, BC, Canada

vancouverbc

There's plenty to do in this bustling seaport in British Columbia, from hiking outdoors to exploring the art scene — there's something to appeal to any traveler. After you've strolled around Burnaby mountain, take a load off with one of these books set in Vancouver at 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters with some delicious noms from Lucky's Doughnuts (hint hint: apple bacon fritter.)

10. Prague, Czech Republic

prague

From Charles Bridge to the Old Town Square, 'the City of a Hundred Spires' is sure to steal your heart. Make sure to check out the Astronomical Clock and hike up to Prague Castle to get a sprawling view of the city. After you're all tired out and ready to settle down to dinner, make sure to order vepřo-knedlo-zelo at least once. It's roast pork with bread dumpling and stewed cabbage — a Czech staple that doesn't feel as heavy as some of the other culinary fare.

9. San Francisco, United States

sanfrancisco

Home of Silicon Valley, San Francisco has innumerable attractions to keep you busy. After biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, walk through Haight Ashbury and stop on over to see the famous Painted Ladies. When you're fueling back up at a local restaurant for lunch, check out one of these reads then pick up a Mint Mojito Iced Coffee from Philz to get you back out and exploring again.

8. Cape Town, South Africa

capetown

When you first arrive, take a cable car to the top of the mountain to get a sprawling view of the city. Afterwards, hike around the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens and go for a wine tour in the valley. Check out one of these books below during your commute; both were written by South African writers.

7. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

rio

Host of the most recent World Cup, Rio de Janeiro is quickly rising up the list of popular travel destinations. After lounging on the famous Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, journey through the favelas for a real taste of Brazilian culture. Sidle up to a local bar and order a caipirinha for a great #booksandbooze combo.

6. Maui, Hawaii, United States

maui

From windsurfing to snorkeling, there's something for every vacationer in Maui. Be sure to check out Haleakala National Park to get a view from the highest peak on the island, and sip on a piña colada while you dive into one of these books.

5. New York City, United States

newyork

"If you're bored in New York, it's your own fault," and 'The City that Never Sleeps' doesn't disappoint. Explore Central Park in the morning, then make your way down south to check out the Empire State Building and Freedom Tower. After you're done, make your way over toChelsea Market to get lunch from some local vendors, and take a walk along the Highline. Pro tip: Grab some doughnuts from Doughnuttery in Chelsea Market, then grab a slice of pizza from Artichoke Pizza after you've spent some time walking on the Highline — life's too short not to have dessert first sometimes.

4. Sydney, Australia

sydney

There's plenty to keep you occupied in the land down under. The famous Sydney Opera Houseis an absolute must-see, then wander down to the beach and walk from Bondi to Coogee for incredible ocean views. If you're looking for a more tranquil scene, drive out to Shelly beach to escape some of the crowds.

3. Paris, France

paris

Paris has always been a must-see destination for romantics and history buffs alike. After checking out the Eiffel Tower and the Jardin des Tuileries to feel like Ernest Hemingway, then stop into a café and recharge with a cappuccino and a croissant, and immerse yourself in Paris with one of these novels.

2. Barcelona, Spain

barcelona

Traipse through Las Ramblas, then take a leisurely stroll through Parque Güell and end your night at a tapas bar overlooking the beach. Barcelona is one of Spain's cultural capitals, so when you're done exploring the city kick back with one of these books. After an afternoon siesta, if you want to experience Spanish nightlift, check out El Row — on the outskirts of the city, this popular club doesn't get started until 6:30am.

1. London, England

london

The number one travel destination for 2016 doesn't disappoint. From Big Ben and the Parliament building to the London Eye and South Bank, London is full of enough history and literary references to keep you occupied forever. Grab some fish and chips and a pint to fuel up while you're exploring, and dig into one of these novels. Pro tip: Londonist has a complete list of the best places to get this popular 

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