Posted on Thursday, 24 January 2019

Applying the term "emerging" to anywhere often triggers debate and disagreement, but we think the following seven destinations are extremely hot this year - figuratively and often literally. So take a look at this ravishing septet and start planning your next adventure...

Mestia, Georgia

Located high up in the glorious Caucasus Mountains, the hamlet of Mestia is the perfect base for hiking and climbing in this, one of Georgia's most dramatic mountain areas. Locals are mostly comprised of Svans, a unique linguistic and cultural sub-group among Georgians. While it may be small, Mestia has its own airport and capacity for hundreds of visitors seeking the awe-inspiring tranquillity of the Caucasus. Georgia is increasingly popular with tourists, yet remains an unusual destination for most Britons. But with prices comparable to many Southeast Asian countries, it presents an affordable (and close) holiday opportunity for earners of sterling - a currency which has not performed well in recent years. But more importantly, perhaps, Georgia is an incredibly rewarding country in itself, with a rich history, a unique language and some very tasty food (don't miss Khinkali - Georgian dumplings with meat and spices, or qababi - kebabs to you and me).

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Jordon is undoubtedly an up-and-coming destination, with a host of ancient architectural sites to enjoy including Petra and Al-Khazneh, both of which famously appeared in Indian Jones and the Last Crusade. Another equally worthy site is Wadi Rum. "Wadi" means valley in Arabic, with the full name translating roughly as "Valley of airborne sand". Here you can indulge in a luxury camping trip, hosted by local Zalabia bedouin, or try riding an Arabian horse. While Wadi Rum was first made famous by another hit movie, Lawrence of Arabia, back in 1962, there are plenty of people who might not automatically consider this region as a holiday destination. This year, why not buck the trend, don your adventurer's hat and head to Jordon?

Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

iStock/Adrian Catalin Lazar

This charming beach resort has actually been on surfers' radars since the 1970s, but today it's attracting visitors of all types from across the globe. In common with the rest of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is very cheap, although there are plenty of ways to spend your money if you really want to. The town is connected to the country's coastal rail line, which can take you up and down the ravishing coast for just a few pence per trip. If you want to visit India but need a 'dry run' first, then Sri Lanka is a great place to go, considered as it is more laid back and safer than its much bigger neighbour to the north.

Goreme, Turkey

Located deep among the conical "fairy chimney" rock formations of the Cappadocia region, Goreme is famed for its homes and pigeon houses, which have been carved into the rock formations around town. Dating back around 3,000 years, the town has gone by many names, largely because it was located between numerous rival empires. While this may not have benefitted the locals of long ago, today's inhabitants live among a treasure trove of spellbinding architecture built by various invaders.

Ubud, Bali

OK, this one isn't exactly 'emerging', but it's the kind of legendary tourist destination about which many people say: "one day I'll go there." Why not make 2019 that year? Adored for its evocative temples, steep rice terraces and bohemian cafés and shops, Ubud is a paradise in Bali's lush jungle interior. And if you're into yoga or meditation, you'll find numerous well-run retreats here. Ubud caters to all budgets, from those seeking palatial five star jungle hotels, to those who can make do with a cosy £10-a-night guest house.

Ksamil, Albania

The phrase 'beach paradise' may not seem synonymous with 'Albania', but the idyllic beach resort of Ksamil is changing that perception. Blessed with long sandy beaches, crystal clear gas-blue water and an abundance of delicious (and cheap) seafood, it's the ideal destination for those seeking a classic beach holiday - with a twist. Try to avoid visiting around the peak months of July and August if you're not keen on crowds; it's the epitome of tranquillity April-June and September-November.

Pondicherry, India

Blessed with wide French-style avenues, this vibrant Indian city is home to a unique mixture of Indian and French cultures, with a soupçon of British and Dutch for good measure. Its rich history is the product of many empires - starting with the Romans in the 1st century. There are plenty of historical buildings and monuments to explore, as well as numerous temples - and not forgetting Puducherry Botanical Gardens. Already popular with French visitors, Pondicherry is increasingly attracting Britons too.

Get a Quote