There’s no doubt that 2012 will be remembered amongst Brits for years to come. We’ve had celebrations, great sporting moments and the eyes of the world looking in our direction.
This year has set the bar pretty high, and 2013 is really going to struggle to match it for grandeur, memorable moments and momentous events.
But while 2012 was the year to stay at home and enjoy what Britain had to offer, 2013 could be the year to go abroad and see what the world has to offer.
With that in mind, British Airways has named the top travel destinations for 2013, using company data and compiled by a panel of experts.
“Undoubtedly consumers will continue to be driven by value-for-money next year, with routes such as Dubai, Cape Town and Bangkok already proving popular,” said Richard Tams, British Airways head of UK & I sales.
“We’re also experiencing a real growth in Asia right now and responding to demand with a number of new routes, including Seoul and Sri Lanka.”
So, if you’re stuck for ideas for next year’s getaway, take a look at these hot travel tips for 2013.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With the amazing success of the London 2012 Games still fresh in our memories, what better place to visit than the host city of the 2016 Games?
Brazil has a lot to look forward to in the coming years. Before the 2016 Olympics there is the 2014 World Cup to host and the FIFA Confederations Cup next year.
With stunning beaches, rugged landscapes and an atmosphere quite unlike anywhere else in the world, Rio is not a country to be missed.
Seoul, South Korea
Korean rapper Psy has put his home country well and truly on the map with his international mega-hit Gangnam Style.
Seoul, where the Gangnam district is located, has already seen an increase in visitor numbers as a result of the catchy dance tune, and this is expected to continue into 2013.
“There’s a lot happening in Korea right now, business is thriving and it’s a tourist destination on the up. The mega metropolis is home to some 10 million people, and is attracting a fresh new audience,” said Mike Rock, British Airways’ commercial manager in Seoul.
Derry, Northern Ireland
Derry has a lot to look forward to in 2013. It will be celebrating the 400th anniversary of its city walls and has been named the UK’s City of Culture 2013.
Not only that, but Lonely Planet named Derry as one of the top five cities to visit in the world next year, as parts of its Best in Travel 2013 guide.
“Derry is a brilliant example of a city that has bounced back from difficult times. This is a city with heart, which shines through in its exciting arts and music scene,” said Lonely Planet’s Tom Hall, who contributed to the book.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The beautiful country of Croatia has become a hugely popular tourist destination in recent years. Its historic cities, rugged coastline and alternative music festivals mean that there is something for everyone.
The country is joining the EU next summer, so prices may go up considerably and give visitors a bit of a shock. But with stunning cities like Dubrovnik, a holiday to Croatia will still be worth the cost.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, has been an unsung tourist hotspot for decades now, and is just starting to get the recognition it deserves.
Cheaper than most tourist destinations in the Caribbean, Punta Cana has been building a reputation as a great-value choice for a family holiday.
“People are really waking up to Punta Cana. There’s a real buzz from holidaymakers creating word of mouth on its affordability, fabulous hotels and beaches that dip into the Caribbean Sea,” said Ash van Wensveen, British Airways’ destination manager.
