Travel Destinations to Add to Your 2019 Bucket List

Chris O'SheaDecember 28, 2018
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The end of the year is rapidly approaching, so we have just one question for you: Do you have your travel bucket list for next year all set?

If not, it's time to crack down and get that list sorted out. First, make sure you're equipped with a great travel credit card. Once you have that figured out, choose a destination from our month-by-month travel guide below, featuring a variety of things to do in the included cities, and make 2019 a special one.

January

Thailand

The weather in Thailand is gorgeous during January, so why not start there? The three-day Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, with its vibrant colors, parades and kid-friendly events, will make your visit memorable.

Hawaii

Again, head here for a chance to escape the cold grip of winter. Wait until the middle of the month to visit, however, as hotel prices plummet once the New Year visitors depart.

>>Learn more: How to save on your destination wedding in Hawaii

February

Taiwan

February in Taiwan features events both boisterous and serene. If the former is your preference, take part in the Beehive Festival, which features fireworks galore. If the latter is more your speed, check out Pingxi Sky Festival, when lanterns intended to carry prayers and vows are sent into the night sky.

Miami

If you want some stateside fun in February, try Miami for its weather, gorgeous beaches and nightlife.

March

Washington, D.C.

Get into the spring spirit with a visit to our nation's capital. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival and plentiful free museums make D.C. a fun, inexpensive bucket list destination.

New Orleans

If you're looking for something a bit more adult-centric, filled with jazz and fried fish dinners, in New Orleans, March means Mardi Gras. Enough said.

April

Paris

Traveling to Paris is expensive, so be sure you've got a travel rewards plan sorted out before taking this journey. April is a great month to visit for the weather and the Foire du Trône festival, which started all that way back in 1805.

>>Learn more: The top vacation destinations for retirees

Indio, California

Never heard of Indio? It's where the Coachella Festival is held. If you're a music fan, this is a must. Coachella runs April 12 - 21, 2019.

May

New York City

The best time to visit New York is either when it's not too hot or not too cold. Head to the Big Apple in May for a comfortable weekend enveloped in the hustle and bustle.

Western Australia

Every year from April to July, whale sharks — the largest fish species — swim close to the shores in Western Australia. The sharks and other marine life are stunning and make the long journey worthwhile.

June

London

The weather in London is fantastic during June. While there, check out the amazing military parade known as Trooping the Colour.

Chicago

The Chicago Blues Festival, held during June, is the largest free blues festival in the world, and just one of many reasons to visit the Windy City.

July

Pittsburgh

As far as family-friendly destinations go, it's hard to beat Pittsburgh. Check out the Duquesne Incline for an amazing view of the city, its three massive rivers and some of the 446 — yes, 446 — bridges. There's also a museum dedicated to Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, which was created and filmed in Pittsburgh.

>>Learn more: 5 family vacation planning tips I learned on the fly

Niagara Falls

You already know why Niagara Falls is a must-see. But here's a budget-friendly tip: You can save 30% off tickets to attractions if you buy a Niagara Falls USA Discovery Pass.

August

Samburu, Kenya

Animal lovers will want to hit Samburu during August because it's winter there, which means you have a great chance of spotting big game seeking out watering holes and the remaining vegetation.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Head south for another fun animal sighting experience: Sea turtles nesting on the beach.

September

Alaska

Alaska's high tourist season ends right around September when families shuffle their kids back to school. Book your ticket for this month and enjoy the many wonders of Alaska without the freezing temperatures.

>>Learn more: How to plan for adventure travel like the pros

Bogotá, Colombia

Book your ticket to Bogotá in the first two weeks of September and you'll likely get a discounted rate because rainy season begins right around the middle of the month.

October

Guanajuato, Mexico

Head to Guanajuato during October to see a giant art festival, The Cervantino.

Boston

While visiting in October, be sure to enjoy the Head Of The Charles Regatta, a two-day rowing event that attracts more than 11,000 athletes and tens of thousands of spectators.

November

Hong Kong

Visit Hong Kong during November for its Wine and Dine Festival, an annual event that brings together the finest food and adult beverages Hong Kong has to offer.

Arctic Circle, Norway

November is one of the best times of the year to see the famous and stunning Northern Lights.

>>Learn more: The best national parks for families to visit this winter

December

Belize

For a warm getaway just before 2020 arrives, fly to Belize. One of the first things you'll want to do while there is to visit some of the ancient Mayan ruins.

Egypt

See the pyramids. There's a reason they're one of the Seven Wonders.

How to Maximize Your Rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2021, including those best for:

Planning a trip? Check out these articles for more inspiration and advice: NerdWallet’s top travel credit cards Cheap things to do in any city Earn more points and miles with these 6 strategies