8 Best Places to Visit in 2012
ith 2012 here, there are various places of interest that would compel you to pack your bags and head out to discover the world. What are you waiting for ladies? Head out to the wonderful and pristine places around the world this year! For your convenience, listed below are the 8 best places to visit in 2012.
1. Yeosu, Korea
The World Expo from May 12 to August 12 is one good reason to visit the city of Yeosu this year. The marine-focused expo's theme is 'The Living Ocean and Coast'. The World Fair is complete with planktons, mascots and sub-themes like 'Preservation and Sustainable Development of the Ocean and Coast'. What's more, there are going to be floating pavilions, off-shore multimedia shows, an Ocean Experience Park and varied forms of architectural splendor.
2. Reykjavík, Iceland
If you want to experience beautiful landscapes and breathtaking beauty, then Iceland is the place to be. With huge waterfalls, brilliant valleys, black sand beaches, huge fjords, monumental cliffs and pure white glaciers, there's an abundance of beauty settled here. Volcanic eruptions have also signified that this country is still changing and has different landscapes forming with the passage of time. The capital of Iceland, Reykjavík boasts a coastline that is typical of islands, coves, peninsulas and straits
3. Birmingham, England
With Birmingham being termed as the 'foodiest town' in all of England, there's a good reason for you to visit the city in 2012. After all, who isn't a fan of delicious food? So head over to England's 2nd largest city and relish some of the delicacies like Typhoo Tea, Bird's Custard and HP sauce that were invented in Birmingham itself.
4. Mexico
If it's history you're looking out for, then Mexico is the right place for you. What with the Mayan calendar's predictions that the Earth is going to end on 21st December, 2012, don't you want to head out to the place where this prophecy was made? The Mayan towns are having a countdown till the end of this world, so why don't you join in this experience! Whether the world will end or not in 2012 is a different story. But what's wrong in doing a countdown and witnessing a different culture altogether?
5. Istria, Croatia
Istria has the combination of long stretching hills as well as a beautiful coastline along the ocean. Situated in Croatia's northernmost peninsula, these hills are famous for their olive oil estates, truffles, Malvazijia white wines and small hill towns. There are abundant adventure opportunities for those looking out for the same. You can go cycling for miles on the excellently maintained bike trails. The coast provides a chance to swim and snorkel too.
6. Helsinki, Finland
If you're an admirer of art and design, then Helsinki offers just that and a lot more. It has already been titled the World Design Capital for 2012 by The International Council of Societies of Industrial Design. There's also an official Design District which houses 200 business shops selling clothes, furniture, household items and a lot more.
7. Kerala, India
After showcasing itself at the Vienna Biennale, India is now poised for its own biennale in Kerala, which the state tourism touts as 'God's own country'. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale starts on December 12 which features Indian and international artists. The contemporary painting, film, sculpture, installations, new media and performances are something to look forward to. Moreover, there's an abundance of natural beauty awaiting to greet you there, in the form of its backwaters where you can hire a houseboat. The tea gardens, tropical forests and distinctive animal and bird species found there are also worth a visit.
8. Myanmar
After remaining shut to tourists for years, Myanmar has now opened its doors to welcome visitors from far and abroad. Known as the 'Land of the Golden Pagodas', Myanmar is great at hospitality too. You can find a good network of hotels and a delicious cuisine too.