As 2018 enters its final two months, travel organizations and magazines are beginning to release their picks for the top destinations to travel to in 2019. Some of the most well-known lists released are from Lonely Planet and Forbes. Top destinations this year span across multiple continents and range from the Himalaya to northern Europe.

According to Lonely Planet:

Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2019

10. Meknes, Morocco

Located in northern Morocco, the city of Meknes is famous for its imposing imperial walls and gates dating to the 18th century. Everywhere you look in the city, you will find vibrantly colored Moroccan mosaics, minarets, and mosques. Outside of the medina, or old town, the picturesque green minaret of the Grand Mosque from the 11th century colors the sky. Just outside of the city are the well preserved ruins of Roman Volubilis with intact columns and mosaics.

9. Zadar, Croatia

Located on the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, Zadar is an idyllic Croatian coastal town. Zadar is best known for its extensive Venetian architecture and Roman ruins in its old town. One of the city’s most inviting features is its sea-side promenade, which is a favorite among locals and tourists for strolling at sunset. Near Zadar are also the beautiful natural landscapes of pebbly Kolovare Beach and Kornati National Park which is perfect for snorkeling.

8. Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s downtown landscape, crowned by the famous space needle, is an exciting place to travel and explore. The city features interesting sites such as Pike Place Market, a public market on the water front and the Museum of Pop culture, displaying items from icons such as Bob Dylan. Beyond Seattle are thousands of acres of beautiful parkland, mountains, evergreen forests, and the Puget sound. These natural landscapes make Seattle a perfect destination for nature lovers.

7. Dakar, Senegal

Located along the west coast of Africa, Dakar Senegal is a city full of culture and nightlife. Dakar’s location along the coast means the city is surrounded by white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters—perfect conditions for beachgoers seeking some sun. In the city, Dakar offers attractions that gave insight into African culture and tradition such as the IFAN Museum of African Arts. Beyond Dakar are gorgeous natural landscapes such as Lake Retba, a pink sand-lake

6. Mexico City, Mexico

From Aztec ruins to the works of Frida Kahlo, Mexico city has it all. This cultural metropolis is the heart and soul of Mexico and an exciting destination for any traveler. In the city, one can visit the world famous National Museum of Anthropology which houses artifacts dating as far back as the times of the Maya. In the city center, other intriguing sites to explore are the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Chapultepec Castle, and the Frida Kahlo Museum. Just outside of Mexico City are the magnificent ruins of the ancient city of Teotihuacan which dates to 200 CE and features some of the largest ancient pyramid structures in the world.

5. Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the epicenter of the nation’s culture. The city is filled with endless majestic hindu and budhist shrines, temples, and monuments and is pure eye candy for visitors. While in the city, explore the famous Pashupatinish Temple dating to the 15th century along the riverbank and the vibrant Taleju Temple. Other beautiful sites around town include the Narayanhity Palace which houses the royal jewels and the Garden of Dreams whose name is derived from its lush pavilions, landscaped grounds, and fountains. Also, Kathmandu is the perfect home base for exploration into the Himalayan mountains and Mt. Everest.

4. Miami, Florida

Vibrant, lively, colorful, and sunny Miami features one of the most famous beaches in America with a wall of skyscrapers as a backdrop. Miami is the perfect destination year-round for those looking to escape the cold and catch some rays. Along Miami Beach, enjoy Crandon Park which features a carousel, tennis courts, nature preserve, and protected beach area. In Miami, the Wynwood district, known for its many bright, artistic murals, is the perfect place for exploring the exciting atmosphere of this happening city. At night, time in Miami is best spent on world famous South Beach where trendy nightlife is abundant. Miami is also home to a small slice of Cuban culture in the Little Havana neighborhood.

3. Novi Sad, Serbia

Straddling the Danube River is Novi Sad, Serbia’s second largest city. Known as the Serbian Athens, this town is full of Gothic Revival and neo-Renaissance architecture—making it a jewel of eastern Europe. Novi Sad’s beauty also lies in its extensive outdoor areas such as the Strand, a beach along the Danube, or Danube Park, a popular outdoor space for relaxing. Some of the city’s most interesting sites are the eighteenth century Petrovaradin Fortress, the Name of Mary Church, and The museum of Vojvodina which displays European artwork and local history.

2. Shenzhen, China

This expansive metropolitan city located in southeastern China near Hong Kong is a perfect travel location for those looking for an urban escape and an immersion in Chinese tradition and culture. Shenzhen is particularly famous for its expansive shopping locations and opportunities, including the Dongmen shopping district. Some of the best attractions in Shenzhen include Window of the World theme park, Shun Hing Square, and the Overseas Chinese Town. Surrounding the city of Shenzhen is also an abundance of natural beauty best appreciated by visiting the Hong Kong Wetland Park and Dameisha Beach.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Easily one of Europe’s most exquisite, inviting, and exciting capitals, it is easy to see why Copenhagen is the top destination to travel to in 2019.  Around Copenhagen, stunning historic architecture wows visitors and transports you to a wonderland. Some of Copenhagen’s most iconic locations are the Little Mermaid statue dedicated to the fairytales of local author Hans Christian Anderson, the Tivoli Amusement Park, the Queen’s winter residence of Amalienborg Palace, and the renaissance Rosenborg Castle. Copenhagen is also home to some of Europe’s best museums including the National Museum of Denmark featuring items from Danish history and the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek displaying fine art and ancient Mediterranean statues.

In 2019, I hope you expand your horizons and visit one of these many diverse and amazing destinations around the globe.