Hit list for destinations for 2015

Every year comes with its challenges and opportunities and sees destinations gaining or losing their appeal – here I look at some that should be top of most hit lists in 2015.

Belgium – next year marks the 200-year anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, a milestone in European history. The battle involved many nations, ended over 20 years of conflict in Europe and heralded over 50 years of peace and stability.

A special bi-centenary celebration will take place between June 18-21, including a series of the largest battle re-enactments ever seen in Europe and a spectacular light and sound show over the Butte de Lion memorial mound.

Colombia – there are now direct flights from Heathrow to Bogota this year. KLM are resuming flights to the capital from March 2015, the latest display of confidence in Colombia as a mainstream destination. Unesco World heritage city, Cartegena, is still top of the list for visitors – other attractions include capital Bogota and party city Medellin, the adventure capital of San Gil, Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast and the Coffee Triangle.

Montenegro – so often overshadowed by its neighbour Croatia, has seen the fastest tourism growth as well as being a top ten destination! Montenegro ( meaning Black Mountain) has breathtaking rugged landscapes that include Durmitor National Park and the Tara River Canyon – the deepest gorge in Europe, as well as a destination for white water rafting and hiking. Bespoke hotel chains such as One & Only and Banyan Tree are opening over the next few years.

Malaysia – is now overcoming the problems surrounding the disappearance of the Malaysian flights in March and this beautiful country is now enjoying visitors once more. British Airways are resuming flights into Kuala Lumpur in May 2015. Tourism Malaysia is advertising home stays which give visitors the opportunity of staying with a local family and experiencing a truly authentic experience.

Just a few ideas for you all to consider over Christmas.

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you all!