Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2009

Every year the travel book supergiant Lonely Planet releases its list of the coming year’s top travel locations, from new trends, to the classic vacation spots that have always been popular with tourists. Their top 10 list of the best destinations of 2009 held some a few surprises, and some great tips that travel nuts have come to expect from their annual release.
1). Bay Of Fire, Tasmania
Chances are you have never heard of this little paradise off the coast of St. Helen’s, a small whaling town in the lesser traveled portion of Tasmania. But with crystal clear waters, clean, sandy beaches, and some cozy little cottages for rent right on the shoreline, this known vacation spot it’s sure to give you the perfect island getaway.

2). Basque Country, France and Spain
Both France and Spain have always been the favorite European vacation spots, with some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever witness. But the Basque costa is an especially lovely area with some amazing travel packages that can take you to one of the most beautiful areas of the world, while still letting you keep some cash for souvenirs.
3). Chiloe, Chile
Chile is a country rich in culture and adventure, and in recent years it has been able to maintain it’s wonderful traditions, while still modernizing the region. Chiloe is an especially impressive example of this mix, with their aging architecture, traditional ghost stories, and an increasing tourist market that includes plenty of adventure tours that will take you on some of the wildest treks of your life.
4). Ko Tao, Thailand
Rich, green landscapes as far as the eye can see, incredible diving locations, and the chance to come in contact with the marine and wildlife of the island, it’s no wonder this is one of the top 10 locations of 2009. If you love the ocean, and the idea of roughing it a little bit while still maintaining a few of the comforts of a resort, then this is the place for you.
5). Languedoc, France
With so much of France conquered by frequent tourism and mass modernization, Languedoc is still a tucked away little spot that offers a little solace from the gaudy gift shops and tourist traps of modern travel. With some lovely hotels, fine dining restaurants, and some great cruise options that take you along the Canal du Midi, this is a nice alternative to the usual French getaway.
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6). Nam Ha, Laos
When you think of vacations, Laos is certainly not the first location that comes to mind. However, Nam Ha is one of the most culturally satisfying trips you could ever take. From home stays with the local people, treks through the mountains, and guided tours by locals to the waterfalls and through the jungles, it’s an experience you will never forget.
7). The Big Island, Hawaii
Who doesn’t want to visit Hawaii? It has been one of the most popular beach vacation spots for the last several decades. But the draw of The Big Island is different then that of it’s smaller siblings. With reach active volcanic lava wastes, beaches filled with white, black, and green sand, and ample time to spend in a less crowded, much more affordable area, this is a less popular, but much more appealing, Hawaiian vacation.
8). San Andres and Providencia, Columbia
Columbia gets a bit of a bad rep, and in some areas it’s warranted. But the two main islands of San Andres and Providencia are two beautiful, tourist-friendly areas that are dedicated to long days spent fishing, hiking, diving, or on submarine tours through the deeps to witness the modern marine life.
9). Svalbard, Norway
Norway is a country rich with tourist opportunities, which is why it has such a crowded holiday life. But the Cold Coast is a lesser known area that is full of dark fjords and mystery. If you like cooler temperatures and polar boat tours, then you will love Svalbard.
10). Yunnan, China
Home of the legendary Tiger Leaping trek, jungle tours, and the scenery of an environmentally rich land, with scattered ancient temples and small towns, this is the ultimate Asian hot spot. Expect the unexpected in Yunnan.