Travel's Best for 2014

Luxury hostels, Cuba, local brew pubs and the Jersey Shore – they’re all reasons to pack your bags in 2014. See what hot destinations and travel trends are our favorites for 2014.

Related To:

Shop This Look

Photo By: Grand Wailea

Photo By: iStock

Photo By: Sony, Electronics, Inc.

Photo By: istock

Photo By: Tony Fischer Photography, flickr

Photo By: Reuters

Photo By: iStock

Photo By: Richard Clifford, flickr

Best Wedding Destination -- Hawaii

“A perennial favorite, we predict even more couples will say "I do" in Hawaii now that gay marriage has been legalized there. For picture-perfect nuptials tie the knot in Maui at the romantic Grand Wailea resort or on the increasingly popular, but still less-developed Kauai.” – Sara Gilliam, Interactive Producer

Best Overall Travel Trend -- TV and Movies-Inspired Travel

From Breaking Bad to Hunger Games: Catching Fire, TV and movies in 2013 moved us – from Albuquerque, NM, to Hawaii. Tourism boards are finding this is a great way to market a destination – targeting set-jetting fans wanting to follow the steps of their favorite characters on screen. We’re predicting films such as Grace of Monaco,The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and cult-favorite shows like Games of Thrones will inspire even more fans to travel in 2014.” – Kathleen Rellihan, Interactive Producer

Best Travel Gadget -- Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II

“This Sony Cyber-shot point-and-shoot camera is the perfect substitute for the photog that does not like hauling around a bulky DSLR camera while on vacation. It's an update to 2013’s model, which is still available, but offers some new features that are useful such as a tilt LCD screen and Wi-Fi so you can connect with your smartphone.”– Arthur Hsu, Video Producer

Best International Destination -- Trinidad, Cuba

“For the first time since the 1960s, flights have resumed from Key West to Havana -- thanks to the eased travel restrictions enacted by the Obama administration in 2011. And more travelers are expected to flock to the island nation next year to help Trinidad, Cuba, celebrate its 500th anniversary. This city is also where the rhythmic foundation of salsa music started. We recommend visitors take a comfortable pair of dancing shoes to experience the series of fiestas and cultural events hosted by this hot travel destination.” – Kwin Mosby, Managing Producer

Best Domestic Location -- Jersey Shore

“What travel spot are we ready to see make a comeback? In 2014, New Jersey celebrates 350 unforgettable years of history, milestones and memories. This is the time to visit the Jersey Shores’ beautiful beaches and boardwalks, which first broke ground in the US on the Jersey Shore in 1870. Enjoy an array of year-long events including restaurant week, concerts and more to commemorate 350 years!” – Rani Robinson, Managing Producer

Best World Event -- Winter Olympics, Sochi

“For the first time in history, the Winter Olympic Games will be held in Russia. From February 7 to February 23, fans will flock to northern Eurasia to see some of the world's greatest athletes compete against one another in an attempt to earn respect for their home countries; They're final destination: Sochi. Don't miss out on another amazing sporting event taking place in 2014, the FIFA World Cup in Brazil from June 12 to July 13.” – Ben Breslerman, Interactive Producer

Best Tourist Attraction -- Northern Lights

“Thought this past year was your best chance to see the northern lights? It’s true, the lights whipped up a flurry of solar activity in 2013, but the best is yet to come, with show-stopping displays anticipated well into 2014. NASA is predicting the lights’ solar activity will peak this winter, with aurora borealis displays stretching into the months to come, in places like Iceland’s Lake Myvatn.” -- Lisa Singh Interactive Producer

Best Wellness Travel Trend – Yoga and Volunteer Vacations

“In 2013, yoga vacations became increasingly popular to detox and decompress outside of yoga studios. And experts are forecasting that volunteer vacations will be on the rise in 2014. So what better way to recharge and support a good cause, than by combing a yoga and volunteer vacation? From volunteering in Kenya with the Africa Yoga Project to yoga and teaching in Kerala, India – there are more and more opportunities available for yoga-loving travelers who want to give back on a feel-good vacation. “ -- Kathleen Rellihan, Interactive Producer

Best Dining Trend – Local Brew Pubs

“Forget eating local, start drinking local! Whether you’re into IPAs, wheat brews or ambers – craft brewing is definitely on the rise, and so are local brew pubs. These establishments offer a unique experience: see how and where the beer is brewed, get out of your comfort zone by sampling a tasting flight, and pair the beer of your choice with the perfect dish. On a recent trip to Asheville, NC, the “beer city,” I was surprised by the quality of the beer, the food, and even the atmosphere at Wicked Weed Brewing.” – Allee Sangiolo, Interactive Producer

Best Hotel Trend – Upscale Hostels

“Forget all your preconceived notions about hostels. Budget travel gets a luxurious makeover with new upscale hostels like the MOXY in Berlin, Milan, London and Frankfurt, #bunk in Istanbul, and the Lisbon Lounge Hotel. Sharing space can be stylish with these hostels’ chic rooms made for mingling and networking. Hostels are no longer just for the backpackers, but for the social and savvy budget-conscious traveler.” –- Amanda DiGiondomenico, Interactive Producer

Shows

Hosts

Trending

Top Videos

Digital Exclusives

From Our Shows

Trending

Top Domestic

Top International

Trending

Explore By Region

Trending

Top Interests

By Trip

By Traveler

Travel Tips

Trending

Travel's Best for 2014

Related To:

Shop This Look

Best Wedding Destination -- Hawaii

Best Overall Travel Trend -- TV and Movies-Inspired Travel

Best Travel Gadget -- Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II

Best International Destination -- Trinidad, Cuba

Best Domestic Location -- Jersey Shore

Best World Event -- Winter Olympics, Sochi

Best Tourist Attraction -- Northern Lights

Best Wellness Travel Trend – Yoga and Volunteer Vacations

Best Dining Trend – Local Brew Pubs

Best Hotel Trend – Upscale Hostels

More from:

Travel's Best

We Recommend

Travel's Best Honeymoons 2014 10 Photos

Travel's Best Adventures 2014 10 Photos

Travel's Best Cruises 2014

Travel's Best Adventures 2014

Travel’s Best Gifts 2014 Slideshow 10 Photos

Best Travel Gifts 2014

More From Travel