Unlucky 13? Not next year. YourHols is looking forward to a fantastic 2013 and British Airways is joining in our enthusiasm. The airline has compiled its top 13 destinations for the New Year and they predict that, whereas 2012 was all about East London, 2013 will be about the Far East with holidaymakers seeking the natural unspoilt beauty, charm and good value that Asia offers.
BA sales chief Richard Tams said: “Undoubtedly consumers will continue to be driven by value-for-money next year, with routes such as Dubai, Cape Town and Bangkok already proving popular. But we are experiencing a real growth in Asia and responding to demand with a number of new routes, including Seoul and Sri Lanka.”
In a recent poll on the airline’s Facebook page, more than 2,660 users nominated the destinations they most want to visit next year. New York topped the list (22 per cent), followed by Australia (eight per cent), Hong Kong (seven per cent), Rio de Janeiro (five per cent) and Dubai (three per cent).
BA’s top 13:
1. Sri Lanka: The ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the tropical island of Sri Lanka (above) has seen a recent boost to tourism, becoming the must-visit destination for intrepid travellers. Ash van Wensveen, BA’s destination manager, said: “There’s a real buzz about Sri Lanka right now. For a small island it offers a lot, from endless beaches, to elephant treks and several Unesco world heritage sites – it’s hard to think what Sri Lanka doesn’t offer.” BA launches flights to Colombo in April, starting from £721 return.
2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: If the afterglow of the London 2012 Games has left you longing for more, then its next host Rio is the place to visit, as it gears up to 2016 Games, the 2014 Brazil World Cup, and FIFA Confederations Cup next year. With its famous sun-kissed beaches to enjoy by day and fun parties at night, there’s a lot to love about one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Flights to Rio from £797 return.
3. Seoul, Korea: Gangnam style may have awakened our senses to Korea, but there’s a lot more to Seoul than ‘K-pop music’! Mike Rock, BA commercial manager Seoul, said: “There’s a lot happening in Korea right now, business is thriving and it’s a tourist destination on the up. The mega metropolis is home to some 10 million people, and is attracting a fresh new audience.” Flights to Seoul from £691 return.
4. Croatia: The jewel of the Adriatic ocean, Dubrovnik continues to appeal to holidaymakers from far and wide, including many high profile celebrities. 2013 will be a big year for Croatia, as the country joins the EU in July. One-way flights to Dubrovnik from £59.
5. Vietnam: The country has become one of the most talked about destinations in recent years. Its capital Ho Chi Minh City is rapidly attracting a crowd of adventurous travellers, looking to soak up the local culture of which there’s plenty. Not mainstream enough to be a tourist trap, many compare it to Thailand twenty years ago – making now the perfect time to visit. BA operates flights to Hong Kong, with connecting flights to Ho Chi Minh City using OneWorld partner Cathy Pacific, for £832 return.
6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Nestled in the Spanish Caribbean Punta Cana is earning itself a reputation as a great value destination for family holidays. BA’s Ash van Wensveen said: “People are really waking up to Punta Cana. There’s a real buzz from holidaymakers creating word of mouth on its affordability, fabulous hotels and beaches that dip into the Caribbean Sea.” Flights to Punta Cana from £676 return.
7. Derry, Northern Ireland: Voted as the City of Culture for 2013, there’s never been a better time to visit Derry. Just over an hour from Belfast, it’s a great destination for a city break, especially to enjoy the many celebrations and cultural events taking place there next year.” One-way flights to Belfast from £81.
8.Las Vegas, USA: The classics never go out of fashion, and with more services to Sin City than ever before, tourists hoping to party like Prince Harry need look no further! Top-end hotels, theatrical shows, exquisite restaurants and all-night entertainment continue to draw the crowds. Flights to Las Vegas from £575 return.
9. Tbilisi, Georgia: Georgia’s capital has enjoyed a makeover, with a number of new restaurants and hotels opening. BA’s Richard Tams, said: “With its scenic walks, charming town, vineyards and local wine and cognac to enjoy, Tbilisi is perfect for a cultural weekend away and is already attracting couples and grown up stag nights!” Flights to Tbilis from £399 return.
10. San Diego, USA: In the year that San Diego’s Ron Burgundy returns to the big screen with Anchorman 2, the city reminds us why it’s still classy. Great for golf, excellent for eating, brilliant for barhopping, California’s best kept secret is a great place to visit any time of year. Flights to San Diego from £677 return.
11. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town offers everything you could want from a holiday. Good food, great wine, day trips, stunning views, vineyards, beaches, sunsets and much more! Ian Petrie, BA’s commercial manager South Africa, said: “Once you visit Cape Town, you’ll want to come again and again. One day you could be watching the Springboks, the next visiting vineyards. Its attractions pack a cultural punch, and it’s always great value for money, making it one of our most popular destinations.” Flights to Cape Town from £917 return.
12. Alicante: The Spanish do fiesta like no one else, and Alicante is a great city for those who prefer to fiesta than siesta! The Old Town offers dozens of bars and restaurants for after dark, and is also host to a growing number of festivals. During the day the local markets are buzzing, and sandy beaches welcoming. One-way flights to Alicante from £80.
13. Dubai: Ever-popular Dubai continues to attract travellers with its Middle Eastern charm. It recently launched a ‘Hello Kitty’ spa, and boasts its own indoor ski slope. BA’s Ash van Wensveen said: “Dubai has become more affordable over the past few years, yet still offers super high-end hotels and unrivalled luxury.” Flights to Dubai from £472 return.
