8 TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN 2022
EXPLORE MORE! WHERE TO VISIT IN 2022
With almost two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions almost behind us, the world is once again open... and we are more than ready to explore!
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HE Cook Islands, Norway and Mauritius have been named in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Countries to visit in 2022 while the regions os Westfjords in
Iceland, West Virgina in the USA and Xishuangbanna in China were named in the Top 10 Regions. Surprisingly Auckland in New Zealand was named as the top city to visit in 2022, despite its strict lockdown and restrictive travel measures with Taipei in Taiwan and Freiburg in Germany coming second and third on the list respectively. Here we take a look at some of the top destinations
on Lonely Planet’s lists and explore some of the reasons why you should visit these destinations in 2022.
TOP COUNTRY TO VISIT - COOK ISLANDS
Located a 3.5 hour flight from Aukland, New Zealand, the Cook Islands will reopen to visitors from the January 13, 2022! Soon after landing in Rarotonga you can be kayaking on the crystal clear lagoon, sipping on your first cocktail or relaxing poolside at your beautiful resort. No matter where you are or what you want to do, the islands are yours to enjoy at your leisure. What sets the Cook Islands apart is the freedom and ease of exploring the islands. Do as much or as little as you like.
Stunning views in the Cook Islands continue below the crystal clear waters where marine life is abundant, colourful and diverse in the lagoon. Explore the live coral reef all around the island by snorkelling right off the beach, joining a sea scooter tour or jumping on a SUP. Perfect conditions offer both impressive visibility and warm water all year round. Perfect for the vast turquoise playground of the Cook Islands, paddle boarding and the lagoon go together like bikinis and sunshine. A great way to cruise and explore, there’s so much to see. If you fancy something with a little more speed, why not try a sea scooter. Travelling at 4km and hour, sea scooters are a really fun and easy way to explore the incredible undersea creatures that call the shores of Rarotonga home.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the islands. Wander beaches with virtually nobody on them, relax in a hammock or get out on the lagoon and experience some of the activities on offer. The Cook Islands is like one big resort where you can easily go from pampering to paddle boarding; from kayaking to cocktails; from island hikes to island nights. The vibe is chilled in this Polynesian paradise.
The spectacular natural beauty of a little paradise is more than just stunning beaches. Breathtaking jungle- clad mountains of the interior cascade to the sea, like Jurassic Park without the dinosaurs. Step back in time to find a paradise refreshingly undeveloped. Lush green vegetation everywhere, warm locals in simple yet colourful houses and no building taller than a coconut tree, it’s a true Polynesian experience.
From tropical jungle to mountain peaks to manicured gardens with cafés, exploring inland is so easy. Take a guided tour - adventure seekers will love getting off the beaten track with a variety of inland adventure tours: from buggies, quad bikes and 4WD to eco cycle tours with storytelling from local guides. For those with energy to spare, there are even combat games, golf and mini-golf courses to enjoy.
Take a break from the beach and enjoy exploring inland. A must do for hikers is the ‘Cross Island’ or Raemaru treks on Rarotonga. Hike with friends, or take a guided tour where you will learn about local medicinal plants, flora and fauna. The Cook Islands are a modern Pacific nation
whose people are a cosmopolitan blend of their ancient Polynesian heritage, with a European twist. There are so many ways to immerse yourself in their culture and slip into the laidback life the locals have created. Cook Islanders are happy, friendly and vibrant people who love engaging with travellers and sharing their lifestyle with their visitors. From lazing on the beach, and shopping at the markets to enjoying a cocktail as the sun sets at a local beach bar, the locals are right there with you, sharing in the magic and joy of their island life. Book your spot at an ‘Island Night’ cultural show for an unforgettable cultural experience. Available at a variety of resorts and cultural centres on Rarotonga and Aitutaki, this is an evening where the locals share their exciting history through traditional music, song, dance and food.
Ancient ways of tribal life can be experienced at one of the authentic village tours on Rarotonga or Aitutaki. On the same soil their ancestors lived and died, learn about tribal customs and rich history of tribal warfare, invasion and cannibalism before the arrival of Christianity. Or take one of the fabulous land or water based tours - the Cook Islands are always sharing a little bit of history and culture!
One of the best ways to connect with the friendly
locals is to visit the vibrant Saturday morning Punanga Nui Markets in Rarotonga. This is the social hub of the island, where tourists and locals come together to enjoy delicious local produce, talented local music and dance performances and authentic Cook Islands crafts.
TOP REGION TO VISIT ICELAND
- WESTFJORDS,
The Westfjords of Iceland is much less travelled than most other corners of the country, due to their vastness and distance from ‘must-see’ tourist destinations such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
However, the Westfjords is, in fact, one of the country’s most spectacular and awe-inspiring regions. The settlements are small and sparse, and between them are untouched landscapes and dramatic features unlike any other in the country.
Many people are aware of the mighty Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland’s southwest, but have never heard of Dynjandi on the Westfjords.
The Westfjords are really only accessible in the summer months, from May to October as snowfall is heavy in the region, and due to the small population, the roads are not as regularly maintained as in the rest of the country.
So many of the features that make Iceland famous, such as its dramatic mountains, hot springs, the multitude of waterfalls, and stunning coastlines, have variations in the Westfjords.
The region has its own distinct character, and at 16 million years old, it the oldest part of Iceland. Most travellers coming to Iceland are visiting to enjoy its diverse, unique and dramatic nature; these three adjectives can all be used to describe the Westfjords without a hint of exaggeration. Its natural attractions are some of the best in the country, whether you are seeking wildlife, waterfalls, beaches or hot springs, and its landscapes, of dramatic fjords and towering mountains, are simply awe-inspiring.
Deserted since the 1950s, the Hornstrandir Nature
Reserve is the least populated region of Iceland outside of the Highlands. The lack of people here the past few decades have allowed for an explosion in flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for those seeking out the best examples of Iceland’s wildlife. The cliffs of Látrabjarg stretch for 14 kilometres and
are over four hundred metres high in numerous places, making them quite a spectacle in themselves. In summer they become a natural wonder as they fill with millions of birds, nesting and raising their chicks.
Auckland may be closed to visitors for now, but there are hopes it will begin to reopen in 2022... and when it does, some amazing things await visitors!
Dynjandi is a hidden gem, a waterfall so spectacular and awe-inspiring, that it is the favourite of many. Older than the rest of Iceland, and far from the Mid Atlantic Ridge that divides the country, the Westfjords have no active volcanoes and fewer hot springs than the rest of the nation.
The best-kept secret hot springs in the Westfjords are at Mjóifjörður, a remote fjord many will drive by
wildlife of Glenfern Sanctuary or relax on Medlands Beach.
The largely untouched Westfjords in Iceland are a hidden gem for visitors
on their way to Ísafjörður. They are hidden within the natural surroundings so speak to a local or the staff at an information centre to find out how to reach them.
TOP CITY TO VISIT - AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Based around two large harbours, Auckland is a
major city in the north of New Zealand’s North Island. In the centre, the iconic Sky Tower has views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, is based around an extinct volcano and home to the formal Wintergardens. Near Downtown, Mission Bay Beach has a seaside promenade. While some may think a country with some of the tightest travel restrictions in the world - at present it is not open to visitors - is an odd choice for the Top City to Visit in 2022, once the country does reopen again it won’t be difficult to see why it was crowned.
Auckland is New Zealand’s most populous city and is a multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture. Also known as Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland sprawls
over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.
Auckland is the perfect mix of city sophistication and a stunning natural playground. World-class shopping and dining experiences are never too far from beautiful scenery that includes harbours and islands, volcanic cones, native bush and black-sand beaches.
Discover 10 of the best things to do in and around Auckland city.
Relax with glamping getaways at Castaways
Resort, Karioitahi Beach, New Zealand: Looking for a relaxing weekend escape or a family-fun staycation? Castaways Resort, set on the cliffs at Karioitahi Beach on the Awhitu Peninsula makes for a perfect escape to go glamping under the stars. With epic sea views, gourmet meals, luxury spa, and beauty treatments, it is complete with activities like archery, blokarting, clay bird shooting, and more. You could also explore luxury lodges and tents around Waiheke and the West Auckland beaches.
Discover art and culture at Auckland Art Gallery:
Learn about the Māori history and traditions at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and explore the modern and traditional world-class exhibitions at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. SkyJump off the Sky Tower with Sky Tower Bungy:
Looking for an adventurous weekend activity? Try jumping off the plane for a thrilling experience with Skydive Auckland. Or go for a SkyJump from the iconic Sky Tower, or walk its edge - 192 metres above ground level! And if that’s not enough, head to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for New Zealand’s only Bridge Climb or bungy into the Waitemata Harbour. Epic! Explore the Hauraki Gulf on a whale safari : Spend a family-fun weekend spotting the rare marine life on a Whale & Dolphin Safari. The Hauraki Gulf is home to stunning coastlines, world-class vineyards, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and an active volcano. From dolphin spotting to luxury dinner cruises or racing an America’s Cup yacht, there’s a maritime experience to suit every taste and budget.
Go stargazing on Great Barrier Island and see Great Barrier Island by night: Go on a magical nighttime journey and marvel at the clear dark skies for stargazing with Good heavens dark sky experiences. Great Barrier Island is the first in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – with only ten other places. Great Barrier Island is covered in lush native forest and you can hike the Aotea Track or visit the rare
Experience the Farmers’ Market in Matakana: Matakana’s beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, local arts scene, and picturesque village with a superb farmers’ market make this region a divine destination. Pick up organic, seasonal produce, or savour some fresh delicacies by the river’s edge at the Matakana Village Farmers Market.
Indulge in world-class cuisine: Discover a food and wine adventure in the heart of Auckland city with vibrant laneways, and waterfront dining all within walking distance.
Urban adventures in the city, Auckland: Auckland is known for its cosmopolitan nature and the diverse food options are reflective of that. Auckland is home to world-class food producers. For those that are passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients, Auckland is sensational – embark on a tour with The Big Foodie, Foodcraft or Bush and Beach and get to know Auckland gastronomy.
Visit Waiheke Island ‘the island of wine’ Spend a weekend or a day or a few hours, Waiheke
Island is the ultimate island retreat, just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Best known as the ‘island of wine’ for its many wineries and vineyards, a wine tasting tour or an indulgent lunch is a must. Enjoy spectacular views and explore the beaches, restaurants, and other activities on the island. Kayak to Rangitoto Island: Have you ever watched the sunset and had a BBQ on Rangitoto island? Auckland’s most iconic island, Rangitoto is a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city. Take a short ferry from downtown Auckland to walk to the summit for spectacular views, or glide across the harbour via paddle power on a sunset kayak tour. Explore the rugged beaches in West Auckland:
Explore one of the many West Coast beaches. Piha is a stunning spot, with beautiful waterfalls and iconic black sand.
You’re never too far from the sea in Auckland. In less
than an hour’s drive from the city centre, you can find yourself on wild rugged beaches, where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies or head to Piha, a popular surf beach, and Karekare, made famous as the backdrop for the film The Piano.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022: Top 10 Countries
1. Cook Islands 2. Norway 3. Mauritius 4. Belize 5. Slovenia 6. Anguilla 7. Oman 8. Nepal 9. Malawi 10. Egypt
Top 10 Regions
1. Westfjords, Iceland 2. West Virginia, USA 3. Xishuangbanna, China 4. Kent’s Heritage Coast, UK 5. Puerto Rico 6. Shikoku, Japan 7. Atacama Desert, Chile 8. The Scenic Rim, Australia 9. Vancouver Island, Canada 10. Burgundy, France
Top 10 Cities
1. Auckland, New Zealand 2. Taipei, Taiwan 3. Freiburg, Germany 4. Atlanta, USA 5. Lagos, Nigeria
6. Nicosia/Lefkosia, Cyprus 7. Dublin, Ireland 8. Merida, Mexico 9. Florence, Italy 10. Gyeongju, South Korea
January 2022 Travel News
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