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JANUARY: Rajasthan, India
Rajasthan is one of the most popular places in India – and once you visit, you’ll know why. There’s desert scenery, markets aplenty, medieval forts and, of course, that colourful traditional dress locals wear so well. An absolute must-visit is the village of Ladera, in the north part of the state, which hosts the Camel Festival over two days in January. Here, owners show off their decorated camels and participate in various competitions, from camel milking to the best camel haircut. Hello, hilarious Insta shots.
2/12
FEBRUARY: Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Unbelievable doesn’t even begin to describe this gorgeous section in our own backyard. “It’s an absolute haven for adventure lovers,” says Lisa Perkovic from Expedia.com.au. “The beach sits at the base of the Mauao volcano and includes popular hiking trails, like Mount Maunganui Summit Track.” The place is buzzing in summer, with the temperature sitting at around 23˚C, making it a perfect location to hit the waves and take a surfing lesson, especially in February. When the sun sets, head to The Hop House for top-notch pub food and live music.
3/12
MARCH: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
If you think you’ll be able to handle the Spring Break crowd, this is where you need to be in March. When you can tear yourself away from the partying, visit Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park that features underground rivers. And don’t forget to stop off at Xel-Há, one of the world’s most beautiful natural aquariums. Your eyes won’t be able to take in all the incredible views.
4/12
APRIL: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
If shopping’s your jam, welcome to heaven. The Dubai Mall – the largest shopping centre in the world – will have you spending cash quicker than you can handle. When you’re done, head to the Aquaventure Waterpark (the temperature is perfect in April), where the rides and views will have you going gaga.
5/12
MAY: Sosúa, Dominican Republic
Sosúa Beach is a key drawcard in the Puerto Plata province, because it’s A-grade amazing. If you’re a snorkeller, swim out to the reef that lies about 100m from the shore for dive sessions. But if lounging about tickles your fancy, rent a beach chair and put your feet up. A sneaky tip: don’t pay any more than RD$60 in May. Otherwise, you’re being scammed! While you’re there, make sure you visit 27 Charcos (AKA Twenty Seven Waterfalls of Rio Damajagua), a 60-minute car trip from Sosúa. It has natural spring-fed waterfalls, which you can jump down. YOLO!
6/12
JUNE: Beaver Creek, Colorado, US
It may be cold and dreary in NZ in June, but there’s one place in the world where – even though it’s snow-riddled – the sun rarely hides away. “It’s claimed Beaver Creek has 300 days of sunshine a year, which means you’ll be swapping your ski goggles for sunglasses,” says Perkovic. “Zip through pine trees under brilliant sunshine and crisp blue skies.” Sounds pretty amazing to us!
7/12
JULY: Fjord region, Norway
If you think this place is the land of ice and snow, prepare to have your mind blown; during summer, the sun never sets. “Norway becomes a 24-hour playground in high summer,” says Perkovic. “Make the most of the extra hours of daylight by kayaking, hiking or swimming in the early hours of the morning.” The area’s hiking spots offer seriously Insta-worthy photo opportunities in July – Trolltunga (The Troll’s Tongue) is a narrow rock protruding above the Ringedalsvatnet lake, while the journey from Stavanger to Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) is almost as good as the attraction itself.
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AUGUST: Tuscany, Italy
You don’t need to be by the beach to experience the sunshine in August. “Hire a car and drive through the towns of Tuscany, stopping in sunflower fields and vineyards,” says Perkovic. Make a stop in Siena and sip on vino as you overlook Piazza del Campo (the town square), then explore Duomo di Siena (a beautiful cathedral). Pop into Luca, a short drive from Pisa, to walk by the medieval walls that enclose the city.
9/12
SEPTEMBER: Marrakesh, Morocco
In September, the city of Marrakesh boasts charm and character. Eating at the local food markets is essential – check out the one on Djemaa El-Fna, where you’ll be able to try delicious food and be entranced by snake-charmers. For the best vantage point to check out one of the busiest squares in Africa, head to the Panorama Café, right at the corner of Djemaa El-Fna. Sit back and bask in the sun with a coffee, taking in the view.
10/12
OCTOBER: Port Louis, Mauritius
Can’t decide where to jet to in October? Mauritius’ Port Louis features bursts of culture from travel hotspots like India, China, the Middle East and Europe. The white-sand beaches and sapphire-blue Indian Ocean surrounding this beautiful volcanic island will hook any sun-lover, but it’s worth pulling yourself away from the sun lounge to indulge in Creole cuisine (with African, French, Chinese and Indian influences) and a spot of shopping at Le Caudan Waterfront in the nation’s capital.
11/12
NOVEMBER: Petra, Jordan
Picking the right time of year is key to visiting Petra, because it can be stifling hot (#desertproblems, much?). However, November is Jordan’s autumn, so if you head there at this time, it will still be warm but not scorching. You’ll need a day to explore the ancient ruins of Petra like the Treasury, a rock-cut building that is the most-photographed part of this Roman settlement, and don’t miss the Monastery, which has crazy desert views.
12/12
DECEMBER: Anywhere in Australia
It’s Christmas time, so why not stay close to home and explore our friendly neighbour in December? They do have the best weather in the world at this time of year, anyway. From the south coast’s Jervis Bay and Melbourne’s Werribee Open Range Zoo, to Queensland’s famed Gold Coast Hinterland and Tassie’s Cradle Mountain National Park, there’s always something beautiful in the wonderful land of Oz that’ll make your jaw drop.
