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Lonely Planet recently published their list of the best 10 places to visit in 2017 and here is what they found. Many of these countries have major positive or celebratory events that make them attractive as tourist destinations.

Have you checked these off of your 2016 list of things to do?

1. Canada

A major positive vibe for travelling comes from Canada’s much-loved president Justin Trudeau who is the face of a country known for its dynamicity, tolerance and diversity. The world’s second largest country celebrates 150 years since the Canadian Confederation – a great time for tourists to participate in the country-wide celebrations. For vacationers from the UAE, trends show that your money will get more value in this wonderful country – so start planning now.

2. Colombia

Travelling to Colombia was considered something only reserved for travellers with a taste for thrill and more than a little strife. Not any more as the country’s tourism sector has taken off admirably well, their hospitality and natural wonders inviting more people from across the world to visit the beautiful South American nation. Pope Francis is planning to visit the country in the first quarter of 2017.

Note: Pregnant women are discouraged from visiting the country as there is still a high Zika virus alert in the region.

3. Finland

Seriously, any picture taken in Finland looks like it came out of a travel catalogue. Finland remains one of the best Nordic countries to visit and is a great destination for travellers from the UAE in terms of travel time and visa processes.

2017 is also a very important year for the Finnish as they celebrate 100 years of independence - so be prepared for fun events in every part of the country. Plan ahead and you might even be able to chase the Northern Lights.

4. Dominica

One of the very few countries in the world still untouched by the tide of resorts and hotels, 2017 might very well be your last year to take complete advantage of this ‘nature island’ characterised by tumbling waterfalls, dense rainforests and the last-remaining settlement of pre-Columbian people in the Eastern Caribbean. Other highlights include art and architecture that is reminiscent of their cultural and military history.  Include trying authentic Dominican food and beverages as a must-do during your trip.

5. Nepal

Think of Nepal, and the Dalai Lama and the constantly revolving pillars of a Buddhist temple come to mind. Though struck by a massive earthquake in 2015, Nepal is still standing strong and slowly rebuilding what was lost. While you visit the resilient structures that have stood the test of time and natural disasters, you can help the country get back up stronger and more beautiful than ever before.

6. Bermuda

A British over-seas territory, this string of 181 islands showcases a perfect medley of cultures – British, West Indian, North American, African and Portuguese, to name a few. While featuring quaint urban structures, picturesque beaches and historic forts, Bermuda also has you covered if you need an action-packed vacation with diving, tennis, golf and sailing.

7. Mongolia

Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers already have Mongolia on their favourites list as the country is known for its vast, naturally beautiful landscape suited to hiking, trekking and road-trips. A major highlight for us would be the centuries’ worth of nomadic culture – living in a ‘ger’ which is a felt tent-like structure and riding horses with herdsmen. Mongolia is home to the ‘Blue Pearl of Asia’ – Lake Khuvsgul – one of the deepest freshwater lakes on earth. It’s not all about getting lost in nature either as 2017 sees big developments in the urban landscape of the region.

8. Oman

The only GCC entry on this list, it’s not surprising that Oman with its beautiful and authentic landscapes is a country you must visit in 2017. A major factor for UAE residents loving Oman is the affordably priced travel packages to the country. Along with its many forts, red sand deserts and beautiful mountains, Oman is also known for its luxury stay properties well placed to visit the best known tourist places in the country.

9. Myanmar

 

#burma #myanmar

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With Myanmar slowly but steadily moving towards being more accepting of outsiders, travelling to this secretive country is getting easier and will continue to do so in time. If you plan on travelling in 2017, be prepared for some difficulty in getting everything sorted for travel but once that’s done, you will be going to a country rich in cultural and natural diversity. Home to over a 100 ethnic groups and numerous stunning architectural gems, Myanmar should be on your travel bucketlist.

10. Ethiopia

A country that has been referred to in countless historic and mythical texts, Ethiopia is your exotic land fix. The country is home to fauna and flora found nowhere else on the planet and to stories from the beginning of time. While you plan, train ahead to trek on the poetic ‘roof of Africa’ (the Semien Mountains) to the summit of the country’s highest peak (Ras Dashen) over 4530 metres.