5. Unexplored territory: Havana, Cuba
At the beginning of the year, the USA re-established diplomatic ties with Cuba, so it’s advisable to go before Havana becomes overly touristy. Cuba’s capital city is a treat with Spanish architecture, 1950s cars, grand churches, public squares with cobbled streets, a thriving performing arts scene, musical festivals, succulent food and colorful drinks.
6. Mountainous Asia: Mount Hwangmaesan, South Korea
This exquisite area of South Korea is home to an 1108 meter (3635 feet) tall mountain which blooms with royal azaleas each May. The locals hold a culturally rich festival, (the Hwangmaesan Royal Azalea Festival) to preserve the flowers. The area also features a popular Buddhist temple called Haeinsa, which houses a collection of Buddhist scripture and flowers from the 13th century.