After 40 years in the vacation business, Funjet knows travel. We took a look at incredible destinations, both popular and relatively unknown, and chose our top destinations for 2014 travel. Looking at the quality and of the accommodations available, the variety of activities, the ease of travel and that less-easily-defined “wow factor,” the experts at Funjet settled on ten fabulous destinations that appeal to different types of travelers. Without further ado and in no particular order, here are Funjet’s Places to Go in 2014.
Vallarta-Nayarit, Mexico | For Cultural Exploration on the Beach
Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Vallarta-Nayarit is poised to enjoy a resurgence in popularity as a number of the good-value all-inclusive resorts are completing renovations or new projects. The Riu Jalisco, for one, has completed a renovation that includes a clean, modern design in all guestrooms along with updated bars and restaurants. The completely brand-new IBEROSTAR Playa Mita just opened near the exclusive Punta de Mita area, about 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. The new resort is in a prime oceanfront location and is affiliated with the Litibu Golf Club, one of the top courses in the region. Downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Malecón boardwalk has enjoyed a makeover, and now features art, shopping, dining and entertainment. And with nearly as many Michelin-starred restaurants as Mexico City, travelers looking for unique gourmet dining will find more than their fill in this destination. There’s a lot of culture to be found in Vallarta-Nayarit, along with a lot of great all-inclusive resorts. It’s an excellent option for travelers who love Mexico but are looking for a new destination.
Dominican Republic | A Bit of Everything for Those Who Can’t Decide
Punta Cana is one of the most popular luxury beach destinations in the Caribbean, but there’s more to this island than the fabulous all-inclusive resorts. There is so much to discover in this island destination that previously has been downright difficult to access, but over the past two years, Dominican Republic has completed and opened several new roadways that make traveling between towns much faster and simpler. The new Autopista del Coral connects Punta Cana and La Romana, cutting down the travel time to just under one hour. Golfers will love the ability to experience the Caribbean’s best golf courses in both locations. Go a little further to discover the colonial history of Dominican Republic in Santo Domingo – including the oldest cathedral in the Americas. For historic architecture, great dining and shopping, travelers should not miss Santo Domingo. The new La Romana bypass allows travel between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo without going through town, which not only cuts down on travel time, but also reduces traffic congestion in La Romana. But don’t just pass by La Romana, which has attractions such as Altos de Chavón and excellent billfishing. To go north of Punta Cana, travelers will find stunning scenery along the brand-new Tourist Boulevard of the East, which connects the Bávaro area of Punta Cana to the town of Miches. Not much further is Los Haitises National Park, home to exotic mangrove forests and caves with indigenous Taino art. With these new roadways open, Dominican Republic truly has become a destination for those looking to experience a little bit of everything.
Los Cabos, Mexico | For the Adventurers and Water Babies
On the tip of the Baja Peninsula, there are two towns that savvy travelers have loved for years: San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. The striking Land’s End rock formation is perhaps the most recognizable icon of this unique destination, but it is far from the only reason to visit Los Cabos. Golfers will literally be in paradise among some of the top golf courses in Mexico and the Caribbean. Luxury travelers should not miss the new all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, which recently opened with sophisticated design and a laid-back atmosphere that matches this destination. Adventurers can go zip-lining, kayaking with seals and whales, or ATV on ocean-side sand dunes. And there is no end to the water activities. Known as the “Aquarium of the World,” the Sea of Cortez is a hotspot for divers and deep-sea anglers in search of large schools of fish and other sea creatures. With so many things to do, it’s no wonder that in-the-know travelers return Los Cabos year in and year out.
Grenada | For the Luxury-Seeker Looking for Somewhere New
Known as the Spice Island, Grenada is the place to go for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury vacation in the Caribbean. Not only does this island have unbelievable views, unspoiled beaches and enough adventure to satisfy the biggest thrill-seeker, but it also has ultra-upscale resort options that also feel accessible and friendly, largely due to the openhearted people who live here. Sandals LaSource Grenada Resort & Spa is a brand new resort on Pink Gin Beach that opened in late-2013. The Luxury Included® resort takes all-inclusive vacationing to a new level with private plunge pools, suites with personal butler service and infinity pools on private ocean view terraces. The resort has nine different dining options, including Sandals’ first-ever steak house, along with Beringer® wines and top-shelf liquors all included. Another unique inclusion that sets Sandals apart from other all-inclusive options is the unlimited scuba diving and the comprehensive land- and watersports programs. The best part about Grenada? While it may feel like a world away, it’s easy to get there on major air carriers like United Airlines and American Airlines – and several U.S. cities even have seasonal direct flights.
Costa Rica | Upscale but off the Beaten Path
Costa Rica is quickly becoming a popular destination for all-inclusive travelers and adventurers, but there is still time to enjoy the unspoiled atmosphere before the masses discover the gorgeous beaches, mountainous surroundings and the many activities available here. The great thing about Costa Rica is that you can get that off-the-beaten-path vibe while still enjoying upscale all-inclusive amenities from recognized resort brands such as RIU Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels, and Hilton Resorts. Visitors should take time to step off the beach and explore the cloud forests and hidden waterfalls. The Arenal Volcano was until recently one of the most active volcanoes in the Western Hemisphere, creating fiery displays nearly every day and resulting in hot springs on its banks – and though it is quiet today, it’s easily accessed for a day of adventure you can only find in Costa Rica. This unique country is one of the richest countries when it comes to biodiversity, with nearly half a million different species calling Costa Rica home…not to mention the marine life that divers will encounter off the Pacific coast. With excellent resorts, beaches on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and limitless adventures awaiting in the forests, Costa Rica will not remain under the radar for much longer.
Negril, Jamaica | Where Families Play Together on 7 Mile Beach
Negril, Jamaica oozes the definition of “laid-back.” You’ll be on island time from the moment you set foot on the famous Seven Mile Beach, which will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. But what really sets Negril apart is its accessibility for families. It’s easy to get here and many of the resort options are specifically geared toward families. The newly-opened Azul Sensatori Jamaica, by Karisma, features the Gourmet Inclusive® concept that has made Azul Hotels so popular in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. The Azulitos Play House by Fisher Price® is a kid’s paradise (and parents’ too – you can check out the spa!) with daily themed play groups, a splash park and the unique MY GYM program. The whole family will love the gourmet dining and tons of activities on the beach, at the pool and throughout the resort. Also a great pick for families is Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, which has Luxury Included® amenities for all ages. The Pirates Island water park will be a hit with kids and teens, and there’s delicious food for even the pickiest eaters at the seven specialty restaurants. From snorkeling to whitewater rafting to horseback riding to just playing catch on the beach, Negril is the ultimate family getaway for 2014.
Kauai, Hawaii | Adventure and Ecotourism in Paradise
If your jaw didn’t hit the floor when you saw the accompanying photo of the Na Pali Coast, well…then Kauai may not be the destination for you. But if you’re as impressed with the mere image of the coastline as we are, then this is the destination for your 2014 getaway – and the real thing is sure to awe and inspire you. “Rugged” doesn’t seem an adequate description for this island, but “majestic” might just do. With all that, Kauai remains a laid-back, accessible island with welcoming people and unbeatable adventure. Known as “The Garden Isle,” there is a rich history of land stewardship and sustainability on Kauai that lends itself well to ecotourism. You can tour a working coffee plantation, learn about the endangered Hawaiian monk seals, go whale-watching during the winter and explore some of Hawaii’s largest botanical gardens, all in one trip. And, of course, there’s the Na Pali Coast, which can only be reached by air, boat or on foot. Whether you want to go on a challenging hike, take in the view from the comfort of a boat, get up close and personal in a kayak or enjoy sweeping views from a helicopter, there are many ways to experience the Na Pali Coast – and all are unforgettable.
Aruba | The (Almost) Guaranteed-Weather Destination for Beach Bums
Aruba is a favorite destination for beach-goers, and for good reason. This island is outside of the hurricane belt, which means the weather is remarkably consistent year round. There is no rainy season and no dry season – just reliably sunny weather. As a bonus, the trade winds are normally breezing through, which keeps the temperatures in the perfect range for hanging out by the water with your favorite drink in hand. It’s a great choice for off-season travel, because there’s virtually no danger of a storm ruining your vacation. If you have the flexibility to travel when children are in school, you will likely find uncrowded beaches, great snorkeling, and unique Dutch-inspired architecture. Divers will also find a lot to explore under the clear blue water, where there are a number of well-known shipwrecks – including the 400-foot German freighter, the Antilla, which is large enough that even non-divers can snorkel around parts of the wreck. All in all, Aruba is the perfect place for travelers who only want to take a break from lounging on fabulous beaches to take the occasional dip in the clear water or stroll around charming Oranjestad.
Panama | For the Trendsetting History Buff
For those who like to be among the first to visit the next big destination, this is the year to visit Panama. Soon, this best-kept secret will become a favorite destination for beach goers, city dwellers, family vacationers, surfers and adventurers, not to mention history buffs. The Panama Canal is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year by getting spruced up with a brand new third shipping lane. You can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Miami-style capital city with its top-notch dining, nightclubs and shopping. You can choose from two coasts, each home to stunning beaches to rival anywhere in the Caribbean. You can zip-line through the mountainous rainforests. You can explore Isla de Coiba in the national marine park that is home to 23 species of dolphins and whales. You can take a sightseeing cruise down the Panama Canal. You can surf on the consistent waves or snorkel in the shallow reefs. Whatever you want to do, you can find it in Panama, and return home to tell all your friends about your adventure. But don’t wait too long, or you’ll be hearing the stories from others rather than living them yourself.
Walt Disney World® Resort | For the Young and the Young at Heart
There’s more to the Walt Disney World® Resort than princesses and fairytales (though there are plenty of those, along with a dash of magic). In 2013, the park opened the New Fantasyland, with an incredible French-inspired Be Our Guest Restaurant in Beast’s Castle, a whole new experience at the iconic Dumbo ride and an under-the-sea adventure with the Little Mermaid. Over at Epcot®, the Test Track® presented by Chevrolet® is a fun experience for any age, during which you design your own car – and then race against other teams! For 2014, there’s even more in store. At New Fantasyland, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a first-of-its-kind roller coaster that is scheduled to open this year. And, perhaps most exciting (especially for parents) is MyMagic+, an incredible program that consolidates all the ticket stubs, room keys, FastPass tickets, and even credit cards into one fully-customized MagicBand that even has your name imprinted on it. That means you won't have to keep track of all those separate pieces of paper, room keys, credit cards and park tickets - it'll all be in one place. And with My Disney Experience, you’re able to plan your vacation as much or as little as you want in advance so you can focus on having a great time when you’re on your trip. It’s a way to make the Walt Disney World® Resort a bit more relaxing and – dare we say it? – a bit more magical.
Which destination would you most like to visit in 2014?
Do you have other destinations that you recommend for the coming year? Share them in the comments.
