5 Ways to Have the Best Vacation
Lifestyle The ListTravel + Leisure magazine released The World's Best Awards for 2016 and some of the top spots are right here in the United States! From November 2, 2015 to February 29, 2016, readers voted on their favorite places. Here are this year's winners:
1. Best Islands Around the World
If you're looking for a perfect paradise vacation, Palawan, Philippines received this year's top spot. Sky high mountains meet turquoise waters and shipwrecks make snorkeling and scuba diving a top attraction.
Other islands include Boracay, Philippines (#2), Ischia, Italy (#3), Waiheke Island, New Zealand (#4), Santorini, Greece (#5), Cebu, Philippines (#6), Maui, Hawaii (#7), Hilton Head, South Carolina (#8), Kauai, Hawaii (#9), and Bali, Indonesia (#10).
2. Best Cities Around the World
If you're looking for an high-energy, urban vacation, then Charleston, South Carolina is for you. That's right, you don't even need a Passport to visit the world's greatest city! Last year, Charleston was ranked the second-best city and finally claimed the number one spot! The city's historic charm, great dining and shopping and waterfront make it an amazing place for a getaway.
Other cities making the list include Chiang Mai, Thailand (#2), San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (#3), Florence, Italy (#4), Luang Prabang, Laos (#5), Kyoto, Japan (#6), New Orleans, Louisiana (#7), Barcelona, Spain (#8), Savannah, Georgia (#9), Cape Town, South Africa (#10), Rome, Italy (#11), Beirut, Lebanon (#12), Siem Reap, Cambodia (#13), Bangkok, Thailand (#14) and Cuzco, Peru (#15).
3. Best Hotels Around the World
The Nihiwatu Hotel in Sumba, Indonesia took this year's top spot for hotels. At this island oasis, guest can fish, horseback ride, and enjoy a meal at one of their restaurants. What makes the hotel so unique is it's connection to Sumba. 90% of the people that work there, are from there, so you'll feel like a local!
Other top hotels include a few from the United States! The Spectator in Charleston, South Carolina (#2), Montage Kapalua Bay Lahaina in Maui, Hawaii (tie #4), The Lodge at Glendorn in Bradford, Pennsylvania (#6), The Willcox in Aiken, South Carolina (#7), and Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont (#9).