Top Up and Coming Destinations in the Americas

They are our neighbors to the south yet for many U.S. travelers, the countries of Central and South America – as well as in the Caribbean – await discovery.

Every year Travel Leaders Group, as part of its Travel Trends Survey, polls its 1,226 U.S.-based travel agency owners, managers and frontline agents on the top “up and coming” destinations around the world. For 2015, their choices in the Americas are Costa Rica (30.5 percent), Peru (11.2 percent), Ecuador and Galapagos Islands (10.2 percent), Cuba (9.4 percent), and Belize (7.9 percent).

The Central American nation of Costa Rica is a leader in ecological tourism, offering visitors a chance to view the natural world in unspoiled surroundings. One such place is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a mountain rainforest that’s home to hundreds of species of plant and animal life. With coastlines on both the Pacific and Caribbean, Costa Rica offers a variety of beach vacation spots including Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its white sand and lush foliage. The historic capital city of San Jose serves as a great jumping off point.

For travelers interested in ancient history, the South American nation of Peru is a natural destination. The spectacular ruins of Machu Picchu, built by the Incas in the Andes Mountains in the 15th century, are a must-see. Peruvians are also proud of their nation’s reputation as a culinary hot spot. Mistura, Latin America’s biggest food festival, celebrates the country’s cuisine, a fusion of Europe, Asia and Africa. This year, it will be held September 4-13 in Peru’s bustling capital of Lima.

Ecuador has all the elements that make a South American vacation unique, from the Amazon to the Andes. Quito, the capital, was founded in the 16th century and has a well-preserved historic center. To explore native culture, visit Otavalo, famous for handmade textiles and a harvest festival in September. About 600 miles off the coast are the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands, one of the best places in the world to view wildlife including giant tortoises, sea lions and iguanas. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of British naturalist Charles Darwin, who visited in 1835.

Located on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize is home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere, making it a perfect location for snorkeling and scuba diving. History buffs will enjoy the country’s Mayan ruins and outdoor enthusiasts will want to explore Belize’s extensive network of caves. The Costa Maya Festival, a celebration of Mayan culture, will be held August 6-8 on the island of Ambergris Caye.

Closer to home in the Caribbean, Cuba is on the list because of the U.S. government’s decision to normalize relations and reduce travel limitations. People-to-people cultural exchange tours are one of the categories under which Americans can visit and they’ll find a country rich in cultural events. Among them is the Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba July 3-9. The festival of Caribbean music and dance takes place in Cuba’s second-largest city, which celebrates its 500th birthday this year.

For help planning a trip to Central America, South America or Cuba, contact a Donovan Travel agent in East Greenwich at 401-885-3500, in Cranston at 401-942-7700, or in Woonsocket at 401-769-1720.