Top 10 Countries to Visit in 2013

Many different unique countries around the world are gaining attention as popular holiday destinations. Experience a variety of cultures and witness amazing scenery while having a memorable time.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka spans a mere 65,600 kilometers but offers 15 national parks, 25,000 bodies of water, 350 waterfalls and 250 acres of botanical gardens witha  history that dates back over 2,500 years.

Montenegro

Located in the south of the Adriatic and spanning 14,000 square kilometers, Montenegro also offers beautiful beaches, lakes and rivers surrounded by vast mountains. See the magnificent 17th century monastery Ostrog carved into the side of the mountain.

Australia

Australia tours are available all year round and can include some of the most diverse ecosystems and landscapes the planet has to offer. From the east coast to the west coast, the vast landscape and endless land to explore will leave you wanting more. Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef and many more spectacles including the famous Ayers rock.

Ecuador

The country gains recognition for having the tallest volcanoes on the planet. The terrain also offers mountainous regions with lakes, rivers and waterfalls. Make a point of taking a side trip to the fascinating Galapagos Islands and explore the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Slovakia

The country lies in central Europe and has a history that dates back to the 5th century. Highlights of Slovakia include the St. Apostle Altar in the Church of St. Jacob, which represents the largest wood altar on the planet. Standing 200 meters above the landscape, Spis Castle remains the largest complex in Europe.

Solomon Islands

Visit Maraovo and the world’s largest lagoon that measures 140 kilometers in length. Stroll through the historic village of Telina. Scuba diving remains a popular activity and underwater exploration includes the opportunity of viewing historic ruins and shipwrecks that include the Japanese freighter Casi Maru.

Iceland

This European island country lies where the Arctic and the Atlantic oceans meet. Ice climbing and glacier trekking are common tours that visitors embark on here. Visit Iceland anytime from September into April and observe the phenomenal Northern Lights in all their glory.

Turkey

The Romans and Alexander the Great are some of the interesting aspects of history found in this Western Asian country. Visit the ancient city of Aspendus and explore historic ruins. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Constantine, the St. Sophia remains the oldest church in Istanbul and additionally houses a museum.

Dominican Republic

Discovered by Columbus in 1492, guests have the chance to tour the palace known as the Alcazar de Colon, the home of the explorer’s descendants. Enjoy a scenic horseback ride to the Los Haitises National Park and explore the fun fun cave. From December to the beginning of March Samana Bay provides the perfect location for watching the humpback whale migration.

Madagascar

Popularized by the Disney cartoons, this tropical destination lies off the coast of Africa. Popular locations include the Ranomafana National Park serves as home to chameleons, lemurs and other animals. The unusual spiked spire formations of the Tsingy de Bemraha attract many a spectator and thrill seeking climbing enthusiast.

Photo Credit: Laertes