19 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2019, According to Airbnb

With a new year brings new travels! From high-energy spots to quiet, historic getaways, there's a destination for every kind of jet-setter. Check out Airbnb's list of the 19 soon-to-be biggest travel adventures for 2019.

By: Sabrina Corsiga

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Kaikoura, New Zealand

The coastal town of Kaikoura is a must-see destination at the top of Airbnb's list, particularly for whale-watching and dolphin and seal encounters. For an energetic boost, trek along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. The view-worthy trail stretches from Kaikoura's town center to a number of lookout points along the mountainous ranges. Bookings for Airbnb listings are up 295%.

Xiamen, China

Xiamen is a prosperous port city on China's southeast coast, bustling with fine dining picks and a thriving nightlife scene. Xiamen is also home to the island of Kulangsu, known for its colonial architecture and unique feature of being a vehicle-free island. Bookings have increased by 283%.

Puebla, Mexico

Just a two-hour drive from Mexico City, the vibrant city of Puebla is abundant with culture. Visitors can expect to see stunning Baroque-era architecture and experience a taste of the city's culinary history. A few miles over is the town of Cholula, full of beautiful countryside views. Searches for Puebla have increased by 240%.

Normandy, France

Normandy is a hub of cultural riches that include several religious landmarks and stunning seaside views. Visitors will be amazed at the number of major city sites, from strolling through quaint villages to visiting the home of famed artist Claude Monet. For the history buffs eager to visit, 2019 will also mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Bookings for Normandy have increased by 229%.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee-North Carolina

As a year-round destination, the Smoky Mountains consistently offer breathtaking landscape sights. Come for a morning hike to first catch the sun illuminate the foliage, or embark on a black bear-spotting journey - from a distance, of course. The area also holds America's most visited national park, and neighboring town Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, Dolly Parton's theme park. Bookings have increased by 191%.

Buenos Aires Province, Argentina

The province of Buenos Aires spans the Atlantic coast with beaches and forests to satisfy the outdoorsy types. Go hiking in cities of Tandil and Sierra de la Ventana, as well as horseback riding in the vacation hotspot of Pinamar. Bookings are up 188%.

Accra, Ghana

International travelers seeking an energized journey should make a visit to Accra, the capital of Ghana. Some highlights of the West African hub include its colorful bazaar known as Makola Market and high-energy nightlife spots on the beaches along the Gulf of Guinea. Bookings are up 163%.

Mozambique

Nature lovers will rejoice at what Mozambique has to offer. Exploring its coral islands and marine and national parks are just a few things to put on your must-do list. The surrounding Indian Ocean is home to roughly 2,000 types of colorful fish, which can be seen by snorkeling or scuba diving. Bookings have increased by 156%.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

The Outer Hebrides are an island chain off the west coast of Scotland. The isles are rich with wildlife, rugged landscapes that include the Callanish Stones and seawaters prime for kayaking and windsurfing. The Barra Airport has even become an attraction of its own - it is one of the only commercial airports in the world where the planes land on a beach. Bookings have increased by 147%.

Wakayama Prefecture, Japan

Referred to by some as Japan's "spiritual heartland," this mountainous region offers satisfying sights and excursions throughout every season. Visitors can find peace through relaxing open-air baths in Kawayu or exploring holy Buddhist grounds in Koyasan. Food is another excursion itself - sample loads of tuna dishes at the Maguro Festival in Nachi-Katsuura, where fresh fish land more than anywhere else in Japan. Bookings are up 128%.

Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley, New York

With an abundance of greenery, the Catskills create a proper backdrop for a dreamy nature retreat. In addition to its hiking trails, there are also several vineyards, orchards and farms to visit along the Hudson River for planting inspiration. 2019 also commemorates the region's 50th anniversary of the Woodstock music festival, so music fans can rejoice in some peaceful vibes. Bookings are up 100%.

Santa Catarina State, Brazil

Brazil's Santa Catarina State is well-known for its stunning panoramic mountain views and clear blue beaches. Its capital, Florianopolis, includes a bustling public market with food stalls, bars and restaurants. The city of Garopaba offers surfing and fishing at sea, and an annual Oktoberfest parade takes place in the heavily German-influenced Blumenau. Bookings are up by more than 100%.

Batumi, Georgia

Located on the Black Sea, Batumi is a popular summer holiday resort. Due to its temperate year-round climate, the second-largest city of Georgia has become increasingly popular with both locals and visitors. Beaches and ski resorts are must-see stops, along with a promenade that hosts nighttime festivities. You can even travel by train to the Georgia capital, Tbilisi at an inexpensive price. Searches for Batumi have increased by 200%.

Winnipeg, Canada

There's no shortage of culture in the artsy city of Winnipeg. The Forks, a large riverside hub with warehouses converted into shopping and dining spots, is a historic site visitors flock to, along with the innovative Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Each winter, French Canadian culture is also celebrated in the Saint-Boniface quarter at the Festival du Voyageur. Searches have increased by 140%.

Pondicherry, India

The coastal town of Pondicherry was a French colonial settlement until 1954, but the French influence remains throughout its tree-lined streets and saffron-colored colonial villas. Take a walk along the Promenade Beach and visit a variety of religious buildings, from temples to Catholic churches. Scuba diving excursions will reveal dazzling sea sights like corals, manta rays and whales. Searches are up by 140%.

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has had the fastest year-over-year bookings for Airbnb, and it's no surprise from a nation full of rich history. New investments in air travel development, high-speed rail connections and simplified visa processes likely contributed to the growth, but there's plenty more to marvel over - like gazing at Islamic architecture and exploring along the Silk Road. Wish list inclusion has increased by 165%.

Calabria, Italy

At the toe of Italy's boot, Calabria has an expansive range of mountains, national parks and villages. The region's rugged yet charming architecture overlooks many popular beaches for sunbathing as well. Calabrian cuisine is a must-do, as it's distinctive for using peperoncini, or hot peppers, in dishes. Wish list inclusion has increased by more than 100%.

Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia sits on the hill region of Spain's southern coast and houses the picturesque cities of Seville, Cordoba and Granada. Prepared to be amazed at Seville's Cathedral and Alcazar castle, along with the Route of the White Hill Towns, a charming string of villages in the Sierras with a "hidden gem" feel. Wish list inclusion has increased more than 100%.

Taiwan

Capital city Taipei isn't the only hot spot to land in - the eastern districts of Taiwan have been appearing on more and more Airbnb wish lists. Explore the small town of Daxi in a day or two by diving into its historic and culinary attractions. For the leisurely travelers, check out the mango farms and hot springs in Yujing. Wish list inclusion has increased more than 100%.