Looking for inspiration on where to travel next? Erin Holmes of Explore With Erin has asked our Gnomads for their most well-received Instagram post of 2018. Because if this many people love it, then perhaps you will too.
If you are anything like me, you head to Instagram for inspiration. My top research items are places to eat and places to see. So when thinking about where I would head in 2019, I knew I had to reach out to the people who know great travel destinations best, my fellow Gnomads.
These friends are some of the world’s most well-traveled bunch of people you are ever likely to meet, so I knew if they had a top photo on Instagram that their followers loved, I would probably love it too. I wasn’t wrong.
Be inspired. And hopefully, I bump into you at one of these 12 destinations in 2019.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The famous Petronas Towers, also known as the Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin towers in the world. You can grab a ticket to cross the sky bridge in between. Would you?
Kyoto, Japan
Eric loved the Kongoji Temple in Kyoto! Everyone writes their wishes on colorful balls called “kukurizaru” and hangs them at the center of the site, and then when the strings of wishes are full, they’re moved to the main temple, so the colors surround you.
Agra, India
This photo was taken on Cacinda’s first-ever trip to Agra, India, where she was able to visit the amazing Taj Mahal — known as the “Crown of the Palaces.” A magnificent afternoon with great sunlight for this photo of the ivory-white marble mausoleum. If you ever get a chance to go to India, do not miss this stop!
British Columbia, Canada
After heli-hiking with CMH in British Columbia, Canada, Joe found the perfect cup of coffee. The views speak for themselves. Perfect winter destination.
Machu Picchu, Peru
There it is; the magnificent Machu Picchu. Words can’t do it justice. The views take your breath away. Kelly was so thrilled to check this National Geographic Journey off her bucket list. Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel, located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, on a mountain ridge 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level. Most archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was constructed in 1450 for the Inca emperor.
Italian Lakes Region, Italy
The Italian Lakes were formed at the end of the last Ice Age, and have been a popular holiday spot since Roman times. Color, Michelin-star restaurants, markets, sailing, cycling and walking — it’s everything Sher (and you) could want from a vacation spot.
Tramuntana Mountains, Mallorca, Spain
Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains on the island of Mallorca, Valdemossa is an ancient city filled with enigmatic cobblestone streets lined with cafes and boutique shops. And plants. Lots of plants. Jeremy fell instantly in love.
Montreux, Switzerland
From towering snow-capped mountains to luxury spas — everything about Switzerland is stunning! Ava’s photo view is from the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux, Switzerland. If you asked her to escape somewhere today, this would be the place!
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, USA
Kirsten says this city is always a charmer and gets even better when the cruise ships leave and you can explore without the crowds. Old San Juan is the oldest settlement within Puerto Rico and the historic colonial section of the city of San Juan. This historic district is a National Historic Landmark District and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona, USA
Mike shares a view from Montezuma Castle National Monument near Camp Verde, Arizona (about 95 miles north of Phoenix). It’s a well-preserved dwelling built around 1100 and 1425 AD by the Sinagua people, a pre-Columbian culture. The main structure comprises five stories and 20 rooms and was built over the course of three centuries.
Panama City Beach, Florida, USA
Meagan and her kids popped into Panama City Beach for spring break. One morning they decided to stop at Thomas Donut. As it was raining they decided to sit in the car and enjoy them. The donuts were not only a winner for Mommy Travels but her followers. Good and cheap! Meagan is holding the donut of the day, which was a caramel apple pie donut! She says it’s the best donut she has ever had.
Los Angeles, California, USA
Pattie might not eat hot dogs, but she loved her visit to “Angry Dogs” at Pixar Pier. It’s so cute! Angry Dogs is themed after the Disney Pixar hit “Inside Out” and is located inside California Adventure Park.
And if that’s not enough inspiration, you can always tune into two of my favorite accounts. Their top photos of 2018 were:
Travelocity – Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
The Roaming Gnome – Lands End, Cabo San Lucas
Erin Holmes of Explore With Erin is an official Travelocity Gnational Gnomad. Gnational Gnomads is an exclusive group of high-profile travel and lifestyle experts who offer tips and inspiration on behalf of Travelocity.
Travelocity compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.