Top 10 destinations for 2018

Posted 6 November, 2017 RAA

Check your passport and pack your suitcase – it’s time for a holiday. Here are our top 10 destinations to visit in 2018, as picked by RAA’s very own travel agents.  

Buenos Aires & Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Lauren Davidson, Modbury Shop

It’s hard to pick just one spot to visit in South America, so why not try two? Buenos Aires – Argentina’s vibrant capital – is the home of tango so make sure you pack some comfy footwear for dancing. Browse the craft markets for a unique souvenir, and take some snaps of the stunning European-influenced architecture. The La Boca area, with its brightly painted buildings, is great for ticking off food, music and markets, so don’t miss it. And then there’s Iguazu. Stay on the Argentinian side to avoid needing another visa, and give yourself a full day (or two) to explore. My favourite views were from the crest and also the amazing ‘Devil’s Throat’.    

Yosemite National Park, USA

Rena Lombardi, Elizabeth Shop

Yosemite National Park (pictured above) is perfect for lovers of the great outdoors, no matter how young or old. It’s not just for hikers, either. Take an open-air tram tour, have a leisurely picnic, go for a bike ride, take an art workshop at the Yosemite Art Centre or stop in at one of the many visitor centres to learn about the flora and fauna of the park. Even though spring is considered the best time to catch Yosemite in all its glory, it’s worth considering a winter visit if you’re a keen skier or snowboarder.  

Porto, Portugal

Amber Plail, Colonnades Shop

Portugal is like Spain’s cool little sister, and it only takes one glance at their famous blue painted tiles (Azulejos) to see why. You can see them for free on the exterior of the Capela das Almas de Santa Catarina (pictured above). Porto is also known – funnily enough – for its port, so it’s well worth trying a couple of the port wine caves along the riverfront while you’re there. Livraria Lello bookstore is a delight for literature and architecture-lovers alike, but the lines can be crazy, so you might want to fuel up on a Francesinha (a giant layered sandwich/doorstop hybrid) to tide you over.    

Gansu Province, China

Michelle Twigger, Victor Harbor Shop

Gansu is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to immerse yourself in Chinese culture but get off the beaten track of Beijing or Shanghai. It’s home to the biggest indoor sleeping Buddha in China, which you can find at Dafo Temple. There’s also a lot of contrasting scenery in this area of China, from grasslands to gorges, to caves and mountains. Chinese visa requirements can be confusing and the process can be lengthy. Tourists sometimes fear getting around China beyond the big cities. However, it’s well worth the extra planning, so ask your travel consultant for their top tips.  

Honolulu, Hawaii

Narissa Swaker, Mount Gambier Shop

Hawaii’s always popular with sun-seeking families, and now’s a great time to visit thanks to regular cheap flight deals. Waikiki Beach is a classic, and it’s certainly worth doing the Waikiki Trolley tour and hitting up the Cheesecake Factory while you’re there, but head to the island of Maui if you’re after relaxation time. Adventure tours, hiking or snorkelling with turtles are great fun for all, but also leave time to shop up a storm – especially on cheap clothes and cosmetics. Don’t forget to ask your travel consultant about ESTA visas, as Hawaii is part of the USA, and avoid visiting in July – that’s summer break for Americans so it’s super busy.