City breaks were the most popular type of holiday among British tourists in 2014, and in 2015, the trend is set to continue. 43% of holidaymakers are planning a city break this year, compared to 42%, who’re planning to spend their holiday on the beach.
The popularity of city breaks has risen significantly in the last few years. It seems laying around on the beach, soaking up the sun, is starting to bore holiday makers, who now want to see and do a lot more on their holidays. So, for those thrill seekers, let’s take a look at some of the best, emerging cities to explore in 2015. Get there first, before they’re plagued with tourists.
Johannesburg – South Africa
Despite it’s reputation, Johannesburg has gone from strength to strength, and is finally breaking free from it’s troubled past. In 2015, the city will comprise new, exciting cultural hubs, forward thinking galleries and shops, together with more well-know attractions such as Constitution Hill and Apartheid Museum. Jo’burg is becoming a must-see vibrant city, that is sure to stay with you long after you leave.
New Orleans – Lousiana, USA
New Orleans is officially back and open for business after hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the city over a decade ago, and it’s better than ever. New Orleans has always been known for its exciting food and music, but since the devastation, the number or restaurants in the city has doubled. The music scene is also in full swing, and a Musicians Village has been built purposely to house musicians that were displaced by the storm.
Hamburg – Germany
Berlin was once the city for those who like to party all night, but now it has some competition. Hamburg has significantly risen in popularity, with its techno music scene, and budget-friendly prices. You’ll find an abundance of cool and quirky bars, venues and night-clubs in the back streets of Hamburg. You might want to book an extra couple of days to catch up on sleep, though.
Nizwa – Oman
In 2015, Nizwa is expected to be named Capital Of Culture, and its historical importance shouldn’t be underestimated. Nizwa was the capital of Oman for over 1000 years, attracting artists, scholars and traders from all over the world. In 2015, Nizwa is the place to be, as it celebrates its’ history and future with a series of events across the city. Where is it? It’s right next door to the United Arab Emirates.
Wellington – New Zealand
Many big-budget films have been shot in New Zealand, as nowhere else in the world has the same breath-taking backdrops. Tourists often visit here to see the sets of famous films such as Lord of the Rings, but Wellington gives them a reason to stick around. Wellington offers a lustrous cafe scene and has an array of bubbling craft beer bars across the city. It’s also celebrating 150 years as the country’s capital in 2015, so expect some special events.
Belgrade – Serbia
Belgrade is a fairly small city, but is changing rapidly, and becoming a very cool place to visit. Once abandoned and neglected neighbourhoods have now been transformed into arty-type hangouts, and small cafes. You’re also likely to see Chic bars and edgy night-clubs popping up in the most unlikely of places, such as in small, run-down buildings that have been salvaged from the city’s arduous past. You’ll never see anywhere like this place.
Salta – Argentina
Salta is the very definition of a pretty Argentinian city. Filled with art, music and history, you won’t want to leave the centre, where Andean folk-music radiates from nearby clubs. If you do though, you’ll be rewarded with plenty to explore, such as cacti-spiked deserts and fertile vineyards that produce some of the country’s best wine.
Yangon – Myanmar
Not quite tourist-free, but still undiscovered in parts. Dotted with red-robed monks and golden Pagodas, it’s a feast for the eyes. You’ll discover untouched beaches that have only just been opened to tourists, and much, much more. The first-ever rough guide to Myanmar is released in February 2015. Get it before everyone else, and be among the first to discover the delights of Yangon.
Vienna – Austria
Few cities can boast the imperial grandeur of Vienna. Vienna is a city where postmodernist and contemporary architectural designs contrast and fuse with the monumental and historic. Vienna is also one of the most musical cities in the world. This is partly due to the vast number of great composers and musicians who were born here or lived and worked here. In Vienna, You’re sure to lose yourself amidst the buzzing restaurants, cozy coffee houses, Beisln, innovative museums, and absurdly grand architecture. In addition, this year, a line-up of special events and exhibitions will be held to celebrate the 150 year anniversary of the architectural tour de force: the Ringstrasse. Oh, and in 2015, the Eurovision Song Contest will also be held here.
Plovdiv – Bulgaria
Plov dov is one of Europe’s most beautiful Old Towns. Situated before a stunning backdrop of the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria’s second city has been polished over the past few decades. Its remarkable ruins were slowly uncovered throughout the 1970s and ’80s. And throughout the 2000s, heritage buildings have been lovingly restored into museums, restaurants and hotels. This, together with all of its other historical treasures, and smouldering nightlife make Plovdiv a truly exquisite place to visit.
