Top 5: Destinations on the Rise

Travel company TripAdvisor released a list of trending, bucket list-worthy travel destinations for 2018. The list is compiled with consideration for accommodations, restaurants and attractions, as well as searches and booking interest.

We pulled our top five from the list.

Kapaa, Hawai’i

Located on the island of Kaua’i at the base of the Sleeping Giant Mountain, Kapaa offers pristine beaches and a wide range of outdoor activity options, as well as a ton of hotels, restaurants and boutiques in the charming Kinipopo Shopping Village. Plus, airfare to Hawai’i is expected to be cheaper in 2018 due to expanding services and budget airlines, so the destination is more in demand than ever.

Waco, Texas

We all know Chip and Joanna Gaines, right? The power couple and HGTV stars are likely among the reasons Waco became such a hot travel spot. Located in Central Texas, the city offers a variety of museums, a thriving culinary scene and, of course, the Gaines’ now-famous Magnolia Market at the Silos.

Nairobi, Kenya

As Kenya’s capital city continues to thrive as a business hub, reaping the financial rewards that come with that designation, it becomes an increasingly sought-after travel destination. The cosmopolitan city not only offers an impressive entertainment and cultural scene, but it’s nicknamed the Safari Capital of the World for a reason.

Ishigaki, Japan

Located in Japan’s southwestern Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki is a beautiful island, known for its idyllic beaches, snorkeling, diving and surfing. The Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is home to the Shiraho Reef’s rare blue coral and the mangrove forests and mountains make for great hiking. In short, the destination is an adventurist’s dream.

Rovinj, Croatia

Croatia as a whole is a burgeoning destination, but the small fishing port town of Rovinj is particularly special, and people are noticing. The old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, historic buildings and charming cafés, and the seaside area is full of lovely beaches, fresh seafood shops and stalls.