What will power your travel dreams of this year? Maybe some of you are looking for a romantic atmosphere on the French Riviera, while others want something more different like a trip in Laos. There are of course tempting destinations for travelers who love culture, music or want to discover the secrets of different cultures. Select one of these destinations we offer and enjoy a trip out of the ordinary.
Cote d’Azur, France
The Mediterranean playground of the Côte d ‘Azur, is synonymous with getaways of the international jet set and beach glow all year round. The heady atmosphere intensified in May, when the red carpet is unrolled for the movie stars. All eyes will turn to the famous Cannes Film Festival on May 14-25 and although you will need an invitation to watch closely, you can get close to the red carpet and see your favorite actors.
Crete, Greece
Crete is one of the most popular tourist destinations and a visit to the island in May, will provide a getaway full of sun, without the large influx of summer tourists. Do not forget to visit the beach Prevelis, a wonderful spot in a secluded lagoon at the mouth of a river, which is embraced by palm trees. Follow the steep uphill road leading to the peaceful Monastery Prevelis and get rewarded by the breathtaking views and a taste of the delicious local honey.
The 16 kilometers of hiking in the Gorge of Samaria is still an ideal proposal for May. Look for the famous local Kri Kri goats into the flowery spring wildflower landscape. Take a trip through time among the ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of Minoan Crete and then head to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion for a deeper understanding of Minoan life. Do not miss a walk in the old port of Rethymnon and Chania, where you will see the celebrations for the anniversary of the Battle of Crete on 22 May. Discover the wine region of Heraklion and sample the fresh local produce made famous Cretan cuisine.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Famed for its Gothic architecture, student life and the remote location in the South Island of New Zealand, Dunedin is the perfect place for a cultural excursion. Visit during the Writers and Readers Festival, which will take place from 6 to 11 May, which will host a number of leading scholars, including the Alexander McCall Smith, the Eleanor Catton, the Poet Laureate Vincent O’Sullivan and many more big names.
The festival takes place at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery and includes many events ideal for families, as stories for children, tea for Mother’s Day and reciting poems.
Tel Aviv, Israel
It is no secret that residents of Tel Aviv is always ready for fun and endless parties and May marks the beginning of a summer full of concerts, events and entertainment. The Documentary Festival Docaviv organized from 8 to 17 May, while Justin Timberlake, Pete Doherty and Carla Bruni will participate in concerts throughout the month. Do not spend all your energy to the night life, as the weather is ideal for exploring the areas around Tel Aviv.
Meet friendly people on the beach, take a dip in the Mediterranean wander at flea markets and admire the street art in boho neighborhood of Florentin. When you need a break find a place in a shady patio and indulge in the magic of a cafe, which is the best you will find in the Middle East.
Vientiane, Laos
Do you enjoy holidays in warm places, where you can relax and meet other cultures? Visit Vientiane in May, where although the temperatures are high, you will find cheap accommodation and will participate in the festival.
Spend the morning having coffee with a croissant at one of the bakeries in the French style of the city, continue in the afternoon with spa treatments and see the sunset on the Mekong, as you will be walking on tree lined boulevards. A unique, if slightly dangerous experience, will offer the Rocket Festival. Communities throughout Laos celebrate throwing improvised bamboo rockets in the sky, a tradition that started to bring rain to the area.
View more here: What foods you should not try while traveling, 7 tips for using your travel gadgets.
By Nicole P.
Travel photos: Anthony Coronado, jackfre2, Derek Smith, castgen, Lutz Hirschmann.
