Where should I go next?
 

Forgive me for the posting on the Europe forum; I'm really open going anywhere and wanted to tap the vast resources/wealth of advice of my fellow Fodorites!

My husband and I currently don't have any vacation plans for 2006. I am itching to start planning another trip, but don't have a destination yet. I have some ideas, but am open to unusual suggestions if we only have a week/9 nights (we'll save Asia/New Zealand for a longer trip.)

Here's a list of our 1-3 week vacations of the past 10 years: South Africa, Australia, Costa Rica, Argentina, most western European countries as well as Czech Republic and Romania (open to a return visit to anywhere in Europe). I've been to the Caribean on a cruise, hubby hasn't.

We are on the east coast of the US, and are also open to US/Canada travel. We are in our 30's, are outdoorsy, like good food, adventure, immersion in culture, are travelers, not "tourists."

Very grateful for any and all suggestions!
Julie

How about maritime Canada? Friends of our went on a Grand Circle tour of about 15 days and loved the region.

Senegal is one idea...not sure who flies direct now but Dakar is only about 6 hours from NYC. If WEst Africa is too exotic or does not pique your interest, what about Morocco? Ecuador is also relatively small and not difficult to get around (mainland part) and would be good for that amount of time. Each of these sems to have what you are looking for..

2 GREAT ideas!! Keep 'em coming!

Julie

Malta - try it, you'll like it!

Mexico?

Another vote for Mexico. It is often overlooked or written off, yet it is an exotic culture right on our doorstep.

Avoid the coastal resorts (actually a few are ok) and look at Oaxaca, or Merida, or the silver cities in the central highlands, and don't skip Mexico City.

Don't laugh but Mexico scares me, <i>especially</i> Mexico City!

Viva Mexico! If the Cancun-Puerto Vallarta-Mayan Riviera vibe is a turn-off, try Patzcuaro (bring a sweater!), Merida (my favorite), Oaxaca, Taxco, or a ruins tour of Uxmal, Palenque, Chichen Itza, etc.

If you want a beach but aren't into the Carlos 'n' Charlies body-shot scene, I highly, HIGHLY recommend Isla Mujeres.

(Dang, I gotta stop telling people about my favorite places!)

And now for something completely different: How about hiking in the Lake District of northern England? Snowdonia National Park in Wales?

Wish I had your problem - I won't live long enough to take all the vacations that are on my to-do list.

Hi

We'll be doing a trip to Turkey early September. Looks fascinating. You can include a 7 day cruise of the beautiful coastline on a gulet (not doing this, hopefully next time). That way hubby gets his cruise too!

Turkey (to include Istanbul) might be a good bet for both culture and outdoors interests, as would Greece and the islands, and/or some combination of both.

Dubai looks fascinating. Alternately see Croatia now before it fills beyond belief with tourists.

Excellent ideas!! I am now leaning towards Slovenia/Croatia. Heading out today to buy some travel books!! Thanks!

The USA offers vacation sites that rival any in this world. Example; Visit all of the major caves. How about a 'buffalo jump'. Have you been to your families/ancestors graves? State after state offers information about places to see. A really great way is to try an Elder Hostel tour. Try a canoe course at the NOC in North Carolina.

yes! We plan to do alot of USA travel after we have kids. (have done a fair amount already actually)

Scandinavia; the Norwegian fjords, if limited by time. I would fly into Oslo, hop in a car and drive towards Bergen, cover the Handargervida National Park, and plan stops along the way. I have heard a lot of Norway in a Nutshell prepackaged tour, but nothing beats driving yourself in those areas and stopping at leisure.

Also, I travel at least twice/year to Europe. Not until recently I started including a trip in the US. Let me say that the best vacations, most beautiful scenery, most exciting places, best values, are right here in the USA. A trip to South Dakota (Mount Rushmore, Badlands) and Yellowstone National Park stands at the top of my list of the best vacation I ever had.

I would like to suggest Yellowstone or Glacier National Park in Montana. Both are beautiful and provide many opportunities for sightseeing and hiking.Have been to both more than once.

While U.S. is second to none when it comes to areas of natural beauty, if you opt for Europe, another vote for the Slovenia/Croatia combo. They sound perfect for you and meet all the criteria on your wish list.

FYI, on the day that I decided on Croatia/Slovenia (bought books,got very excited, etc) I found out I'm pregnant. Being cautious about travelling abroad (well, too far abroad) in this condition, we're now going to Montreal, Quebec City, and up the St. Lawrence river. Now very excited about this last big trip for a awhile! thanks for the suggestions.

Congratulations, jck4! I'm assuming this is your first baby? Your whole world is about to change!