Want to know where to travel to in 2012? SmarterTravel has just released their top destinations for 2012 list. The list includes some obvious choices as well as locales you've probably never thought to go. "We like to look ahead as the current year wraps up, and 2012 promises to be a great year for some big destinations around the world. Major events like the Summer Olympics are sure to be a draw, but smaller celebrations make some lesser-known places really stand out. No matter where you decide to go in the coming year, we hope this list inspires," says Executive Editor Anne Banas.
England: With the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June and the Summer Olympic Games in July and August, 2012 is definitely a big year for England. Be sure to pick up an Oyster card to travel cheaply throughout London, visit one if its many free museums, grab a discounted show ticket, eat at a restaurant for up to 50 percent off, and stay at the Cherry Court Hotel for under $95.
Mundo Maya: No, Mundo Maya is not a country you've never heard of. 2012 marks the end of the current 5,125-year calendar cycle and heralds in a new era. In honor of the historic time, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, areas once ruled by the Mayas, will have events throughout the year. Learn more about the Maya civilization at Mundo Maya Online and then pick up a copy of Moon Maya 2012 to plan your trip.
Los Angeles: Los Angeles makes the list because of a new downtown park, the end of the Natural History Museum's seven years of restorations, the arrival of NASA's space shuttle Endeavor to the free California Science Center and the new Transformers attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood - all of which makes Los Angeles much more family-friendly. Don't worry, there are still plenty of places where the painfully hip gather, shopaholics shop, foodies eat, culture fans enlighten themselves, and naturalists hike high above the city. Visit discoverLosAngeles to plan out what kind of Los Angeles experience you'll have.
Cuba: Cuba makes the list largely because of novelty. The government loosened travel restrictions in January, allowing institutions of higher learning and religious organizations to sponsor travel for academic, cultural, and religious purposes. This means that Cuba remains prohibitively expensive for many but prices should drop as time goes by.
Japan: Sadly, the 10,000 free flights to Japan promotion so heavily publicized by the press is still undecided. At least Japan Airlines' daily nonstop service between San Francisco International and Tokyo International Airport Haneda makes it a snap to visit the land of cherry blossoms, sushi, and sake. Travelers will find lower prices for everything as the country tries to lure tourists back.
Hawaii: There's really no justification needed for Hawaii. Just know that Alaska Air and Hawaiian Air, both highly-rated airlines with good rates, offer direct flights from San Francisco Bay Area airports to the islands.
Philadelphia: History, festivals galore, hoagies, outdoor sports, and beer. Still not convinced? Check out visitphilly.com and follow VisitPhilly on Twitter for deals, attraction information and intriguing Philadelphia trivia.
South Korea: According to the Korea Tourism Organization, over 9 million foreign visitors went to South Korea as of December 1, 2011. Know nothing about Korea? Watch Marja Vongerichten, wife of celebrated chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, on Kimchi Chronicles as she explores the country through its food.
The Netherlands: True, the Dutch are banning tourists from cannabis-selling cafes. That just means those of you who are there for the windmills, art, tulips, and canals lined with historic mansions will have less pot smoke to deal with. "Stay in touch with the Dutch" on Twitter and Facebook.
Guimaraes, Portugal and Maribor, Slovenia: These two cities have been given European Capital of Culture status for 2012. Each city will have events, festivals, and performances to celebrate the designation. Take some time to learn about Guimaraes and Maribor, two destinations that are very friendly to budget travelers.
Get your passport ready now!
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