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The 10 most exciting countries to visit next year, according to Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet has released its Best in Travel 2016 list. 

The travel company's staff and community have trawled planet Earth looking for the most vibrant, exciting, and far-off destinations you should add to your itinerary next year. 

The United States and Fiji made the list, as well as Australia, where the weak Australian dollar has assisted the country’s ranking.

Unfortunately, other reasons for visiting Australia include warnings that the Great Barrier Reef and Tasmanian forests could soon be altered, so you better see it while it’s there.

Check out the top 10 destinations below:

Fiji sits remotely in a small cluster of islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The nearest land is Australia, 3,000 km away, meaning Fiji is the place to go if you're desperate to escape the stress of everyday life. 

The country's international airport is also receiving a major upgrade, so what better time to visit than 2016?

9. Greenland

Greenland truly is an all-year-round winter wonderland. This icy nation is home to tundras, picturesque towns, and vast expanses of glacial landscapes. For a once in a lifetime experience, you can embark on a whale watching tour and see the surrounding ocean's humpback whales and narwhals put on a show. 

But if watching the Northern Lights dance in the night sky doesn't sound like your thing, the country is also set to host the Arctic Winter Games next year. 

This small South American nation is a pocket of paradise. Whether you want to spend a day on one of its white sand beaches or exploring its perfectly preserved colonial towns, Uruguay's culture is totally laid back. Even the president donates 90% of his salary  to charity so that he can live the same lifestyle as the average Uruguayan. 

With just 3 million tourists visiting a year, you're best off experiencing it before those numbers explode. 

Poland is unfairly overlooked as a tourist destination. Aside from its rich culture and WWII history, the country is also home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including  the Salt Mines, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and Krakow's Old Town. 

The city of  Wrocław is also preparing for its role as the European Capital of Culture in 2016, so next year is a great time to visit.

6. Australia

Sydney has become a siren for travellers looking for somewhere to set up camp. The country is packed with iconic landmarks and otherworldly activities — from snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef to traversing the Australian outback.

As Lonely Planet points out, now is the perfect time to travel down-under as the Australian Dollar flattens out and petrol prices also start to slide. 

Latvia is a hidden trove of rustic charm. It's got everything — from historic castles to its four national parks, each one as beautiful as the last. Rundale Palace, pictured above, is one of the most picturesque pieces of architecture in the country and wouldn't look out of place in a fairytale. 

One of the lesser-known countries on the list, Palau is surrounded by clear teal waters teeming with ocean life. All of its waters have been turned into a sanctuary in a bid to protect its reputation as one of the best diving destinations on the planet. 

3. United States

The US has a bit of everything — from the snow-coated mountains of Utah to the beautifully barren landscape of the Nevada desert. If you want to see all of the US, you'll have to put some serious travelling time aside. 

According to Lonely Planet, the country's National Park Servic e, which protects the country’s 59 national parks and historic landmarks, turns 100 years old next year. 

As far from Western culture as you can get, Japan is steeped in ancient history and unparalleled scenery. Tokyo's successful bid to host the 2020 Olympic Games has only heightened excitement in the small but proud nation.

Away from the liveliness of the capital, you can still explore the country's historic pagoda temples, or if you're feeling brave, see if you can conquer Mount Fuji.

1. Botswana

Botswana topped the list of places to visit in 2016.

It was described by Lonely Planet as being "democratic, progressive, and enlightened," with an inspirational journey from poverty to one of the continent's most developed nations. Get close to nature in Chobe National Park or journey down the Okavango Delta by boat. 

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Lonely Planet's top travel destinations for 2016 include Transylvania and Kotor

As 2015 nears its end, you may be starting to think about resolutions for next year. One of those goals might involving seeing more of the world, but how do you decide where to go?

Luckily, the team at travel-guide publisher Lonely Planet just released their annual survey, " Best in Travel 2016 ," rounding up the must-see destinations and experiences for the new year.

“Best in Travel highlights not the places travelers are headed to next year, but the places our team determined they should visit,” said Tom Hall, Lonely Planet’s editorial director in a released statement . “We picked a mix of up-and-coming destinations and places we anticipate will have buzz around them, based on special events and attractions, anniversary celebrations, new openings and more."

RELATED: Orlando tops the list of best U.S. cities for a staycation

The travel media company sends its experts to scour the globe discovering the ins and outs of locations and came back this year with some surprising suggestions. Sure, booking a trip to Paris or Fiji is always a safe bet, but how about venturing to Transylvania? It was named the No. 1 region to visit.

"Transylvania is experiencing a renaissance, with cutting-edge art scenes, emerging nightlife, excellent skiing and rich wildlife watching including bison, wolves, lynx and bears," said Hall. "More and more, there's a charming mix of old and new — visitors will still see horses and carts in the countryside, but soon they will be sharing the road with Uber drivers as the company launches in Bucharest."

RELATED: US South attracts more interest from foreign tourists: Here are the top 10 cities

Botswana topped the list as the best country to visit, beating out Singapore in 2015 with its "unusual combination of desert and delta that draws an immense concentration of wildlife." Hall writes, “Celebrating its 50th year of independence in 2016, Botswana has remained off the radar for most people, who believe it’s too expensive, too difficult to get to or doesn’t cater for families, but there are many options for all kinds of travelers year-round — self-guided tours, luxury camps, award-winning family safaris, community projects — and plans to start direct international flights in the next year."

And Kotor, Montenegro, was named the No. 1 one city of 2016 for its tasty food, charming alleyways, and postcard-worthy views. "With its dramatic landscapes, historic city walls and much-loved, stunning sapphire bay, Kotor deserves to be recognized and we believe it is a must-see for any traveler," said Hall. "2016 is the time to see this stunning city — get there while you can still experience its traditional way of life.”

The United States makes the list as well as the third best country to visit, with Nashville named the ninth best city in the world to take a trip. TripAdvisor simultaneously recognized the country music haven as being one of the leading U.S. cities gaining popularity among international travelers . There are a few national other winners this year including Hawaii as No. 7 in Lonely Planet's Top 10 Regions and New Mexico as No. 4 in their Best Value Destinations.

Along with their three main categories of best countries, regions and cities, Lonely Planet compiled a few more lighthearted thematic lists including Best Places for Silence , Best Places to Meet Mythical Beasts , Best Burger Experiences , and, of course, the Best Mustache Destinations .

Their entire compilation is available in their yearly Best in Travel book, but we've rounded up their top 10 picks below.

Lonely Planet's Top 10 countries for 2016

1. Botswana

6. Australia

9. Greenland

Top 10 Regions

1. Transylvania, Romania

2. West Iceland

3. Valle de Vinales, Cuba

4. Friuli's wine regions, Italy

5. Waiheke Island, New Zealand

6. The Auvergne, France

7. Hawaii, U.S.

8. Bavaria, Germany

9. Costa Verde, Brazil

10. St. Helena, British Territories

Top 10 Cities

1. Kotor, Montenegro

2. Quito, Ecuador

3. Dublin, Ireland

4. George Town, Malaysia

5. Rotterdam, Netherlands

6. Mumbai, India

7. Fremantle, Australia

8. Manchester, U.K.

9. Nashville, Tennessee

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Lonely Planet's 2016 Best in Travel list of top 10 countries to visit

Global travel company Lonely Planet has announced - early Wednesday morning - its Best in Travel list for 2016 featuring the top 10 countries to visit.

Singapore was listed as the No. 1 country to visit in its 2015 list mainly due to its SG50 hook of "various new developments to elevate the Singapore experience to a new level, from Marina Bay to a new crop of swanky hotels".

It is no longer on the list for 2016. But Singapore did get a mention on one of the few side lists compiled along various travel themes - namely, New Openings in 2016 (for the new National Gallery Singapore- see bottom of story).

Otherwise, the top country to visit in 2016 as recommended by Lonely Planet now is Botswana.

1. BOTSWANA

Lonely Planet says: "Botswana remains off the radar for most people. The impression is: it's too difficult to get to, it doesn't cater for families. But we're here to tell you that's all nonsense. The story of its journey from poverty to become one of Africa's most stable, thriving societies will be celebrated when it celebrates 50 years of independence in 2016."

It wrote: "Seventeen percent of the country is dedicated to national parks and here is a real wilderness that puts you in touch with palpable primitive thrills and fears, whether it's being poled by an African gondolier in a mokoro past pods of sunbathing hippos in the Okavango Delta; or feeling the spirit of the first men in the thousand-year-old rock art in the Tsodilo Hills; or in the eerie beauty of Kubu Island's ancient baobabs backlit by incandescent constellations in a vast night sky."

Current Craze:

'Car park pimping'. This is due to a 30% tax on alcohol and new licensing hours enforcing club closures at 2am, Gaborone (capital of Botswana) has seen its club scene move outdoors and hijack suburban car parks. The party continues around makeshift DJ decks with experienced clubbers equipped with personal cool boxes and camping chairs.

Trend to Watch:

Direct flights. For years the government has been clamouring for direct international flights. Gaborone's airport and runway have recently been upgraded and similar upgrades are planned for Maun and Kasane. With all the action, the long-awaited day may come within the next 6 to 12 months.

Lonely Planet says: "It might be number two but it's always number one for travellers in search of an otherworldly experience. Nowhere else on earth exemplifies that dog-eared 'modern yet ancient' cliche like the land of the rising sun."

It wrote: "Most interesting is move of the much-venerated Tsukiji fish market (which sees over US$20 million (S$28m) in seafood sales each day) to a sparkling new facility that is set to swing open its doors at the end of this year. As everyone's radioactive paranoia is finally put to rest...since the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, and with the government's continued efforts to devalue the Japanese yen, there's no better time to experience the country that pays such vivid tribute to manic modernity and hallowed history."

Current Craze

Animal cafes have reached new heights: People there can now hobnob with goats, sip tea with a turtle, pose for selfies with owls, and do whisky shots while watching penguins.

Life-changing Experience:

One of the world's most famous pilgrimage routes after the Camino de Santiago is Japan's Kumano Kodo near Osaka. For over a millennium, devotees would walk between hidden Oji shrines and forests of haunting trees to reach the three grand worshipping complexes of Kumano. There are a handful of different paths but the preferred route - and also the oldest - is Nakahechi, which starts in the west and travels 30km to the shrines. Unesco officially recognised the network of trails in 2004, and over the last 12 years the walk has seen a steady increase in foreign tourists.

3. UNITED STATES

Lonely Planet says: "The 'best idea' America ever had - the National Park Service - turns 100 next year. It oversees the country's 59 national parks and hundreds of historic landmarks, and celebrates a centenary of safeguarding Yosemite, Yellowstone, Badlands, Zion, and the rest. So lace up your hiking boots and set foot in the miraculously well-managed 340,000 sq km network of surreal and spectacular landscapes it defends, from earth-rending canyons to alligator-infested swamplands to belching geysers. It's a national triumph."

The US is a road-trip paradise. As you take to highways travelled by Thelma and Louise and Bonnie and Clyde, watch the landscape morph from prairie to desert to breathtaking ocean road. On the way, are goofy roadside attractions, small-town diners and curious locals.

Trend To Watch:

The election. In 2016, America's first African-American president will step down. As nationwide protests change the way Americans think about politics, this election year promises raging debate.

Lonely Planet says: "Palau is unquestionably one of the most magical diving and snorkelling destinations in the world - and it's fighting to stay that way. This far-flung Pacific archipelago has turned 100% of its marine territory into a sanctuary in a bid to protect what has been dubbed a 'Serengeti' of the sea."

It wrote: "Palau is charting its own path through the uncertain waters of national independence. While the US still plays Big Daddy, Palau is its own master. Collected behind a 110km barrier reef, more than 200 largely unspoilt limestone and volcanic islands - a mere eight are inhabited - are blanketed in tropical and mangrove forest and surrounded by waters teeming with marine life. Fairly constant temperatures and rainfall mean any time of the year is good to visit, although it becomes more typhoon-prone in the back half of the calendar."

In 1944, the Japanese and Americans fought for three desperate months for control of the island of Peleliu's important airfield. The tragic result was over 10,000 Japanese and 2,000 American casualties, and an island paradise littered with wreckage. Today, many of the rusted tanks, planes, small arms and (highly dangerous) unexploded ordnance that attest to the ferocity of the struggle remain. Tourists, carefully shepherded by expert guides, are increasingly being drawn to this fascinating site.

Bizarre Sights:

Jellyfish Lake is an otherworldly lagoon on the uninhabited limestone rock island of Eil Malk. Millions of an endemic sub-species of golden jellyfish drift across the marine lake in an east-west migratory pattern that's repeated every day. Such is the sensitivity of the lake that visitors must obtain a permit, but snorkelling with these harmless, highly photogenic jellyfish is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Lonely Planet says: "It's taken Latvia 25 years to shrug off the fetters of Communism, but this Baltic treasure looks ready to shine for its silver anniversary. The country is resuscitating ancient traditions, restoring crumbling castles and manor houses hidden in its pine forests, and transforming its once stodgy cuisine into cutting-edge New Nordic fare."

It wrote: "Hundreds of crumbling castles and manor houses - from medieval to Rococo - hide in the nation's dense forests of pine, and today many of these estates have been lavishly transformed into inns and museums. Food, too, has come a long way from sweaty pork and potatoes. A fleet of (new) New Nordic chefs are catapulting local flavours to such artisanal heights that they would truly give Copenhagen a run for its money if Michelin were paying them more attention."

Cast modesty aside and indulge in Latvia's most Latvian tradition, the pirts - a hot birch sauna. A traditional pirts is run by a sauna master who cares for her naked attendees while performing choreographed branch beatings that draw on ancient pagan traditions. Herbs and wildflowers swish in the air to raise the humidity in the chamber for a series of sweltering 15-minute sessions before you exit the sauna to jump in a nearby body of water (lake, pond or sea).

Bizarre Sights :

Gauja National Park may be known as a pine-studded preserve filled with medieval ruins, but it also holds some of the most eccentric relics from the Soviet era. Don't miss the cement bobsled track built near Sigulda as the training course for the Soviet Olympic team, and check out the top-secret nuclear fallout shelter buried under a convalescence home in Ligatne. The bunker was of high strategic importance during the Cold War and the rooms covered in untouched switchboards and Soviet propaganda will undoubtedly perk the antenna of any Bond enthusiast.

6. AUSTRALIA

Lonely Planet says: "The strength of the Aussie dollar over recent years has made a trip down under a tough proposition for travellers on a budget. But with the currency faltering and petrol prices also on the slide, 2016 could be the perfect time for a road trip."

It wrote: "More positively, increasing numbers of Aboriginal land rights claims are being recognised here, including recent claims over Queensland's Fraser Island and a huge tract of South Australia's Eyre Peninsula. Indigenous tourism is booming, with new Aboriginal tour companies such as Ngurrangga Tours in Karratha and Bungoolee Tours in the Kimberley offering authentic cultural experiences. Contemporary Aboriginal art remains an Australian cultural high-water mark, as evidenced by the fab new Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre in Katherine.

Food vans and small bars. Battling innumerable fast food joints in Australian cities, the current clog of takeaway food vans - serving everything from burgers to barramundi curry - is constantly expanding. Afterwards, sip a craft beer at the latest alleyway speakeasy around the corner.

Emerging from the haze in the far-flung Oodnadatta Track in the central Australian desert is the Mutonia Sculpture Park - a kooky roadside installation featuring several large aeroplanes welded together with their tails buried in the ground to form 'Planehenge'.

Lonely Planet says: "Recession-defying Poland has superpowers - while the rest of Europe descended into the doldrums, visitor numbers here climbed and there's no end to the boom in sight as Wroc·aw prepares for a stint as European Capital of Culture 2016. Krakow will have a turn in the limelight too when the Pope arrives to celebrate World Youth Day, and new air routes to Krakow, Szczecin, Katowice, and Gdansk means this is a destination on the rise."

It wrote: "Wroc·aw, the historical capital of Silesia, already had plenty of reasons to preen. Its Old Town Hall, with gothic turrets firing off a custard-coloured exterior, is one of Poland's most beautiful buildings. And among beer gardens and soaring bell towers, Wroc·aw harbours a show-stopping 114m-long painting, the Panorama Rac·awicka. Highlights of the city's stint as one of 2016's European Capitals of Culture will be an artist-in-residence programme to promote artists across borders and world music days that combine influences across 50 different countries."

Plummet 135m into the Wieliczka Salt Mine for an unforgettable underground adventure. In this yawning Unesco-listed grotto, carvings grace walls and chandeliers drip from ceilings - all of them made out of salt. Beneath Krakow's Wawel Hill lies the rumoured lair of a slain dragon, while in the chalk tunnels of Che·m you'll learn of a legendary white bear, now the city's emblem.

Wroc·aw's gnomes commemorate the 1980s thanks to Orange Alternative movement, an anti-Communist group known for its absurdist style of protest - including graffiti and gnome-hat demonstrations. Today more than 300 gnome statues wave from street corners and twirl their beards beneath window panes.

Lonely Planet says: "Squished between South America's two titans, Brazil and Argentina, this small country packs a big punch. What it lacks in size, Uruguay makes up for in peacefulness, hospitality and personality. An estimated three million foreign visitors will arrive in Uruguay next year - but it's a wonder it isn't more when you grasp what the 'Switzerland of America' has to offer."

It wrote: "Take Montevideo, which must be the safest capital in South America. When it comes to quality of life, Montevideo is unrivalled on the continent. It's small enough to get around, but big enough to have some great architecture and a superb restaurant scene. The beach-lined seafront is easily navigated by bike, as is the Old Town, with its array of grand 19th-century neoclassical buildings.

An hour's drive away lies gaucho (cowboy) country. Here, undulating pampas are dotted with working estancias (cattle ranches), many of which serve as guesthouses."

Uruguayans are the masters of the asado barbecue. One of the best places to sample Uruguayan beef is the Mercado del Puerto in Montevideo. This 19th-century wrought-iron market hall shelters a gaggle of steakhouses. Pull up a stool at any of the parrillas (steakhouses) and watch the weighty slabs of meat being cooked over hot coals on a grill, sink your teeth into a tasty morcilla (blood sausage).

In Punta del Este, you can't miss La Mano de Punta del Este (The Hand). This quirky iron and cement sculpture by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal was created for an art contest in 1982 and has been a 'Punta' fixture ever since. It's unsurprisingly selfie-friendly - thousands of visitors pose in front of its large digits, with the beach in the background.

9. GREENLAND

Lonely Planet says: "In March 2016, Greenland will host the Arctic Winter Games, the largest event of its kind ever, along with a festival of song, food and dance. What better time to visit this Arctic wonderland?"

It wrote: "In March 2016, Greenland (technically a territory of Denmark rather than an independent country, although one with a great deal of autonomy) will host the Arctic Winter Games, the largest event of its kind ever. Competitions range from snowshoeing to native games like pole-pushing (think reverse tug-of-war with a tree trunk). It's a quick four-hour flight from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland's main airport. And now there are also seasonal and yearly flights from Reykjavík in Iceland to Nuuk, Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, Kulusuk and Narsarsuaq."

Witness icebergs the size of the Empire State Building in the Ilulissat Icefjord, home to the northern hemisphere's most productive glacier. The town of Ilulissat, next to the glacier, is known as 'the iceberg capital of the world', and offers a huge number of iceberg-watching adventures. Kayak through the fjord's navy blue waters, soar above the glacier in a fixed-wing plane, or hike along the icy cliffs.

Eating local. A new generation of young chefs, some of whom have trained abroad in Denmark or elsewhere, are making meals with the delicious, albeit limited, local ingredients. Think juniper-poached musk-ox fillets, razorbill with crowberries, kelp salad studded with reindeer bacon, bellflower gelee atop local honey ice cream.

Lonely Planet says: "Pleasure-loving Fiji has recovered its equilibrium at last after a coup and constitutional crisis, and travellers will soon benefit from an upgrade to the country's Nadi International Airport."

It wrote: "After an uncertain decade, following the coup of Commodore 'Frank' Bainimarama in 2006, and the constitutional crisis of 2009, Fiji has reverted to its peaceful and pleasure-loving self. In late 2014, Bainimarama finally made good on the promise to hold democratic elections, winning the prime ministership and restoring something of constitutional normality (albeit to a situation he had played an important part in creating)."

It's hard to visit Fiji without being serenaded by warm and welcoming singers brandishing guitars or ukuleles. For a real peek into everyday life, get to a village church on a Sunday. Dress modestly (ask locals for advice on what's appropriate) and have spirits raised by the voices of a community singing traditional songs in harmony.

Flyboarding. Essentially a jet-propelled, hand-controlled hoverboard, the flyboard allows you to skim above the waves, shoot high into the air, plunge into the swell, then do it all again. Try it at Bounty Island.

Vilavilairevo (fire walking) was originally performed only by the Sawau tribe of Beqa, an island off Viti Levu's southern coast, but now you'll probably catch a performance anywhere in Fiji. Traditionally, strict taboos dictated men's behaviour leading up to the ceremony and it was believed adherence to these protected them from burns.

ST's travel writer Lee Siew Hua picks her highlights from Lonely Planet's 2016 Top 10 list:

"The choice of the United States as a desirable destination for 2016 resonates fully with me. I lived in the US for a decade-plus and loved my summer road trips, when I'd experience the immensity of the country and linger in national parks, which celebrate their centennial next year.

"Walking in the cindery, other-worldly volcanic landscape of Hawaii, boating among the glaciers of Alaska where humpback whales can be spied, standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon and realising that its wonder does not diminish on a second visit - and also popping into other parks defined by deserts, mountains or swamps - will stir the wandering gene in us.

"I enjoy the parks as much as America's exciting cities - especially Seattle, Chicago and New York. Parks and cities are worthy counterpoints on an itinerary.

"Japan and Australia, also on the Lonely Planet list, are already perennial favourites of Singaporeans. I have found that walking in less-explored places in Japan, including its far north, is a perfect way to enjoy the country, especially with an onsen and kaiseki feast at the end of each day's journey. Japan's cities, cuisine and lifestyle always have a fresh lustre on each visit as well.

"Australia has new aboriginal tours, apart from its abundance of outdoorsy sites. From luscious lunches amid wineries in secluded valleys to entering a steel cage to gaze at a Great White Shark, which I once tried, with beating heart and pure amazement, Australia has activities galore for the traveller."

For Lonely Planet's side list of "New Openings in 2016", Singapore got a mention:

It wrote: "Singapore boasts several world-class museums, but if you only have time to see one in 2016, make it the National Gallery Singapore. Occupying two of central Singapore's most historical buildings - the former City Hall and Supreme Court - the enormous gallery space, unveiled during the city-state's 50th birthday celebrations in November 2015, will showcase South-east Asian art from the 19th century to the present day.

"After admiring the thousand-odd artworks in the painstakingly restored colonial courtrooms and council chambers, don't miss the fifth-floor rooftop garden with its superb views across the Padang towards Marina Bay."

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10 Spectacular Countries You Absolutely Must Visit

Updated on 1/8/2016 at 4:30 PM

For over a decade, travel buffs have relied on Lonely Planet's annual Best in Travel guides to broaden their horizons and inspire wanderlust — and now we've finally gotten our hands on the list for this year . So if you're wondering where in the world to wander next, let these ideas inspire you. Here are the top 10 picks for the must-see countries of 2016.

Lonely Planet cites Fiji's gorgeous beaches, relaxing resorts, and perfect environment for water sports as reasons for its No. 10 spot on the list.

"Greenland has the world's lowest population density," notes the publication, but it adds that the country's gorgeous sights (such as the aurora borealis, local whale population, and glaciers) and vibrant culture make up for its lack of residents.

Noted as "the Switzerland of America," Uruguay boasts beaches, nightlife, and an intriguing mix of cultures that would make for an exciting vacation.

"Recession-defying Poland has superpowers — while the rest of Europe descended into the doldrums, visitor numbers here climbed and there's no end to the boom in sight," Lonely Planet explains of the resilient European nation.

Familiar Australian sights like the Sydney Opera House and Great Barrier Reef are always a draw for tourists, but according to Lonely Planet, the newfound strength of the US dollar in the country makes it an even more ideal travel destination.

Rich culture, impressive architecture, and a rising spot on the list of top European culinary locations prove that Latvia's small size doesn't reflect its travel appeal.

"Palau is unquestionably one of the most magical diving and snorkelling destinations in the world — and it's fighting to stay that way," writes Lonely Planet, adding: "This far-flung Pacific archipelago has turned 100 percent of its marine territory into a sanctuary." BRB, grabbing our flippers!

There are so many reasons to travel the United States, but Lonely Planet cites the broad array of national parks as the country's biggest perk.

As Japan prepares to host the 2020 Olympics, it continues to evolve as a tech and cultural capital while also remaining deeply rooted in its ancient culture.

Lonely Planet describes the feeling you experience when visiting Botswana as "slack-jawed-with-awe syndrome," and 2016 is the perfect time to visit because the nation is celebrating its 50-year anniversary of independence.

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The best new travel adventures: Lonely Planet's tips for 2016

Lonely Planet’s New in Travel list for 2016 picks out fresh holiday ideas across the globe, including surfing, safaris, volcano visits and cultural attractions

From bullet trains to active volcanoes, travel guide publisher Lonely Planet has named its top new experiences for 2016. Consisting entirely of newly-opened or yet-to-open attractions, the list gives a peak at 31 experiences, ranging from extreme adventure challenges, such as zip-lining in Cuba’s Valle de Viñales, to cultural venues, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Topping the list is the Center for Extreme Tourism in Chinandega, Nicaragua, which opened in October 2015, and is a new ecotourism facility to support those who want to climb the country’s tallest active volcano and explore the San Cristóbal volcano natural reserve.

Japan’s new bullet train route is second: the Tokyo to Hakodate line is an 850km, four-hour journey connecting the capital to the country’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, famous for its high-quality seafood, skiing and hot springs.

In third place is Rwanda’s Akagera national park , where, last summer, lions were reintroduced after 15 years. This year, as the pride establishes itself in its new territory, it will be easier for visitors to track the lions on safari.

Other new experiences on the list include the world’s first Dr Seuss Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts; immersing yourself in desert flowers at the Field of Light installation at Uluru, Australia; and walking on water at the Floating Piers art installation on Italy’s Lake Iseo.

Beyond the top 10 are several UK attractions. The extension of the Tate Modern , due to open in June, is in 16th place, while the cutting edge artificial surf lake in Wales, Surf Snowdonia , also features on the list, as does Stratford-upon-Avon, which celebrates the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death this April.

The full New In Travel list is available to download as a free ebook at lonelyplanet.com/newintravel2016 .

Lonely Planet’s New in Travel top 10

• Nicaragua Climb the country’s tallest active volcano at the Center for Extreme Tourism, Chinandega – opened October 2015
• Japan Zoom along northern Japan’s new bullet train route, Hokkaidō Shinkansen – opening spring 2016
• Rwanda Spot lions in the Akagera national park – expected early 2016
• St Helena, British Territories Be among the first to fly to remote St Helena, from South Africa – available mid-2016
• United Arab Emirates Be awed by the new Louvre Abu Dhabi – expected opening in 2016, date TBC
• Italy Walk on water at The Floating Piers art installation on Lake Iseo – June 2016
• Panama See an even bigger Panama Canal after its $5bn expansion – opening April 2016
• Australia Glow among desert flowers at the Field of Light installation at Uluru – 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017
• US Visit the new museum in Springfield, Massachusetts, honouring native son Dr Seuss – opening June 2016
• Indonesia Luxuriate on Gili Meno’s island retreat, BASK – opening 2016, date TBC
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Where is the best place to visit right now, at this very moment in travel history?

This is the most hotly contested topic at Lonely Planet and dominates more conversations than any other. We pose this question to everyone at Lonely Planet, from our authors and editors, all the way to our online family of bloggers and tweeters.

As self-confessed travel geeks, our staff collectively rack up hundreds of thousands of miles each year, exploring almost every destination on the planet in the process. Each year they come up with hundreds of places that are buzzing right now, offer new things for travellers to see or do, or are criminally overlooked and underrated.

Amid fierce debate, the list is whittled down by our panel of travel experts to just 10 countries, 10 regions and 10 cities that travellers must visit in the year ahead. Each destination is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences and 'wow' factor. We don't just report on the trends, we set them - helping you get there before the crowds do.

We also come up with the world's best-value destinations, the most exciting family adventures, and the most incredible places to stay.

Discover what makes these destinations fantastic places to see right now and what unmissable experiences they offer. The suggested itineraries and practical information are designed to help you make a dream trip happen for yourself. Be inspired by what is spurring travellers to get out and see more of the world. Make 2017 your year of incredible travel experiences!

When Lonely Planet talks the rest of the world listens. That's why tourist boards all over the world await its top 10 lists with bated breath - inclusion practically guarantees a bumper year.

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• Print length 205 pages
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Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet; 12th edition (December 8, 2016)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 205 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1786571153
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1786571151
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 11.6 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.75 x 0.51 x 7.09 inches

About the authors

Kevin Raub is a Italy-based travel and entertainment journalist and certified Brazilianist who grew up in Atlanta and started his career in entertainment in New York, working for Men's Journal and Rolling Stone magazines and "freelancing" (i.e. interviewing hot young actresses about their sex lives over a few too many cocktails) for men's magazines like FHM, Stuff and Maxim. He spent five years in Los Angeles as the senior writer for allstarnews.com, CDNOW's now-defunct (thank you, Amazon.com!) groundbreaking online music news site.

The rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle took its toll, so he needed an extended vacation and took up travel writing. For the last decade, Raub has scoured the globe for a variety of publications, including CNN, Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveller, Afar, Robb Report, New York Times T Magazine, Departures, Town & Country, American Way (American Airlines), Rhapsody (United Airlines), Culture Trip, Celebrated Living, Angeleno, Guitar Aficionado, Time Out: Sao Paulo, BBC History, and New York Post, among others. From the top of the El Toco volcano in Chile’s Atacama Desert (18,372) to the Dead Sea in Israel (-1,385 ft), Raub has nearly seen it all, covering both high-end luxury travel and backpacker bargains – just to keep it all in perspective. Along the way, he’s snapped a few photos as well.

Raub spent seven years on Brazilian soil, canvassing the South American Giant one caipirinha at a time on his way to getting to know 22 Brazilian states for a variety of American and international publications. A well-known Brazil expert, he also handled all of Lonely Planet's on-the-ground social media coverage during the FIFA 2014 World Cup before relocating to Portugal the following year. In late 2019, he relocated to Italy.

Raub is the co-author of over 95 Lonely Planet travel guides, including Brazil (7th Ed.; 2008), Mexico (11th Ed.; 2008); Chile & Easter Island (8th Ed.; 2009), The Carolinas, Georgia & The South: Trips (1st Ed.; 2009); Colombia (5th Ed.; 2009), Lonely Planet's Best In Travel 2010 (2nd Revised Edition, 2009); South America on a Shoestring (11th Ed.; 2010); Venezuela (6th Ed.; 2010), Central America on a Shoestring (7th Ed.; 2010), Brazil (8th Ed.; 2010); India (14th Ed.; 2011), South India & Kerala (6th Ed.; 2011), Discover India (1st Ed.; 2011); Dominican Republic & Haiti (5th Ed.; 2011), Caribbean Islands (6th Ed.; 2011), USA (7th Ed.; 2011), Eastern USA (1st Ed.; 2011), Discover USA (1st Ed.; 2011), Colombia (6th Ed., 2012), Chile & Easter Island (9th Ed., 2012), Peru (8th Ed., 2013), South America on a Shoestring (12th Ed., 2013), Discover Peru (2nd Ed., 2013), India (15th Ed., 2013), Discover India (2nd Ed., 2013 and Brazil (9th Ed., 2013); and the forthcoming Dominican Republic (6th Ed., 2014), Discover Caribbean Islands (1st. Ed., 2014), Colombia (7th Ed., 2015), India (15th Ed., 2013), Discover India (2nd Ed., 2013), Brazil (9th Ed., 2013), Dominican Republic (6th Ed., 2014) Discover Caribbean Islands (1st. Ed., 2014); and the forthcoming Colombia (7th Ed., 2015), India (16th Ed., 2015), Discover India (3rd Ed., 2015), Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra (4th Ed., 2015), Chile & Easter Island (10th Ed., 2015), USA (9th Ed., 2016), Discover USA (3rd Ed., 2016), Eastern USA (3rd Ed., 2016), Lonely Planet’s Best of USA (1st Ed., 2016), Civil War Trail: Road Trips (1st Ed., 2016), Brazil (10th Ed., 2016) and South America on a Shoestring (13th Ed., 2016); and the forthcoming Portugal (10th Ed., 2017), India (17th Ed., 2017), South India & Kerala (9th Ed., 2017), Discover India (4th Ed., 2017), Best of India (1st Ed., 2017), USA (10th Ed., 2017), Discover USA (4th Ed., 2017), Eastern USA (4th Ed., 2017), Florida & the South’s Best Trips (3rd Ed.; 2017), Italy (13th Ed., 2018); and the forthcoming Dubai & Abu Dhabi (9th Ed.; 2018), Colombia (8th Ed., 2018), Chile & Easter Island (11th Ed., 2018), Pocket Lisbon (4th Ed., 2018), Georgia & the Carolinas (2nd Ed., 2019) and Brazil (11th Ed.; 2019), Eastern Europe (15th Ed.; 2019), Western Balkans (3rd. Ed.; 2019), Portugal (11th Ed.; 2019), Discover Portugal (2nd Ed.; 2019), Best of Portugal 2 (2nd Ed.; 2019), India (18th Ed.; 2019), South India & Kerala (10th Ed.; 2019), Goa & Mumbai (8th Ed.; 2019), Discover India (5th Ed.; 2019), Best of South America (1st Ed.; 2019), Discover South America (1st Ed.; 2019), South America (14th Ed.; 2019), Italy (14th Ed., 2019), Greece (14th Ed., 2020), Crete (7th Ed.; 2020), Greek Islands (14th Ed.; 2020), Best of Greece & the Greek Islands (1st Ed.; 2020), USA (11th Ed.; 2020), Eastern USA (5th Ed.; 2020), New York City (12th Ed.; 2020), Hawai’i the Big Island (5th Ed.; 2020), Best of Hawai’i (2nd Ed.; 2020), Europe’s Best Trips (2nd Ed.; 2020) and Lonely Planet’s Best Places to Eat in Every Country (1st Ed.; 2020).

On the few days he's home, Raub once spent an inordinate amount of time slathering on organic cosmetics for his bi-monthly organic grooming column for men, The Green Guy's Grooming Guide, which appeared in Organic Spa for several years, but constant battles with the Brazilian food and drug administration caused it to meet its demise in 2011. Now, he just slathers it on for fun.

Raub also scoured Brazilian soil as the 'Brazil Insider' for LATAM airlines' Only in South America blog for a few years as well.

Raub happened upon his 100th country and territory in 2018, becoming a member of the long-coveted Traveler's Century Club. His country count currently stands at 108.

Follow Kevin @RaubontheRoad on Instagram and Twitter. Visit his personal web site at www.kevinraub.net.

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• World's Best

The World’s Best Cities in 2016

Melanie Lieberman is the senior travel editor at The Points Guy and was an editor at Travel + Leisure.

When we travel to an urban center, we’re often looking for the whole package — history, culture, exciting cuisine, modernity, antiquity, and everything in between. It sounds like a tall order, but the world’s best cities offer these attributes and more. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands , cruise lines , spas , airlines, and more. Readers ranked cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. Our top 15 cities include less-obvious but incredibly rewarding destinations like Luang Prabang in Laos, and the capital of Lebanon. “Beirut is a strikingly beautiful city,” wrote T+L reader Maya Elchebeir. In a region that is being devastated by war and destruction, Beirut rises out of the desert dust, with its contemporary art museums and Ottoman architecture, to serve as a guiding light. Others are recurring winners, including Renaissance center Florence , Italy (at or near the top year after year) and Kyoto, which took the No. 1 spot in 2015. Globe-trotters have long celebrated the former imperial capital of Japan for the hospitality of its ryokan s and the beauty of its some 2,000 shrines and temples. Perhaps the best part of the 2016 World’s Best Cities list is its diversity: from the American South to the Middle East, the heart of Mexico to the capitals of ancient European and Asian empires, the most beloved cities on earth show how dynamic our world really is.

No. 15: Cuzco, Peru

Score: 88.958

No. 14: Bangkok, Thailand

Score: 88.96

Ready to take off? Check out our Bangkok guide first.

No. 13: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Score: 88.961

No. 12: Beirut, Lebanon

Score: 89.00

No. 11: Rome, Italy

Score: 89.22

Make the most of your Roman holiday with T+L's guide to the city.

No. 10: Cape Town, South Africa

Score: 89.46

No. 9: Savannah, Georgia

Score: 89.57

No. 8: Barcelona, Spain

Score: 89.60

When to go, where to stay? Our guide to Barcelona has all the intel.

No. 7: New Orleans, Louisiana

Score: 89.75

Get rolling with our insider's guide to the Crescent City, New Orleans .

No. 6: Kyoto, Japan

No. 5: luang prabang, laos.

Score: 89.85

No. 4: Florence, Italy

Ready to say "ciao" to David? Peek at our Florence travel guide before you book.

No. 3: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Score: 91.19

Book a trip to San Miguel de Allende.

No. 2: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Score: 91.25

No. 1: Charleston, South Carolina

Score: 91.66

Charleston moved up from the No. 2 slot last year to No. 1. The city has shown incredible resilience and, as one reader wrote, there is still “no place quite like it.” In addition to historic battlegrounds and jasmine-scented streets (and an enthusiastic endorsement by Stephen Colbert ), Charleston, South Carolina is home to award-winning hotels (including the Spectator, No. 2 hotel in the world this year) and restaurants. Antebellum charm, excellent boutiques, and the beautiful waterfronts at Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach make this city one of the most beloved in the U.S. — and now, the world.

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