2020 is officially here and with that comes all sorts of New Year’s Resolutions and goals for many people. Each year, it’s a time for me to reflect back on the year and think about what I want to do or see in the upcoming year. Every year, I love to think of a new place to visit. My goal is always to see and do as much as I can and to at least visit a new country and city once every year.

The beginning of the year is an awesome time to plan a vacation because it really can help you set the pace for the rest of the year. Planning a major trip can take a lot of time (or none at all when using a travel agent 😉) so starting early is always what I suggest. Plus, I like to plan early in the year because it gives me something to look forward to and as I work each day, I feel like I am working for and toward something special, which always seems to drive my workforce as well!

There are SO many great places to see and things to do all over the world. I’ve rounded up my Top 10 Places to visit in 2020 to help you get a jump start on thinking or planning your ultimate vacation.

1. Walt Disney World

Now more than ever is the time to visit Walt Disney World! There have been so many new and exciting changes coming to all the parks, including Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios and their 2 new attractions: Millennium Falcon and Rise of the Resistance. Epcot is undergoing a major overhaul and will be totally transformed in time for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World in 20201. Hollywood Studios will also be adding Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway to their list of attractions, while Magic Kingdom will be adding Tron: Lightcycle Run to its list as well. From new resorts like Disney’s Riviera and Coronado Springs: Gran Destino Tower to the Disney Skyliner Transportation system between some of the resorts and theme parks, there really is something for everyone when visiting Walt Disney World. Whether it’s a family vacation, adult only trip, or a quick getaway, Walt Disney World has it all and makes it a great destination to visit in 2020.

2. Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is your one-stop for all things Harry Potter. Visit Diagon Alley at Universal Studios or Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure, and be fully immersed into a totally different world. With their park to park tickets, you can travel between the parks via Hogwarts Express and visit 2 great theme parks in one day. Universal Orlando is known for some great attractions including Rip Ride Rockit, The Hulk, The Revenge of the Mummy, and classic favorites like E.T. These 2 theme parks sit next to Universal’s Volcano Bay: The only water park with an “active” volcano and water rides that can be utilized with a Tapu Tapu wait system allowing you to enjoy your day without having to wait in line. Universal Resorts are close to the parks and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort rounds out the newest list of Universal parks to have opened, making visiting on a budget an easy way to enjoy Universal Orlando. Not only are there great theme parks to chose from, but Universal just announced Universal’s EPIC Universe- which will be Universal Orlando’s 4th theme park coming in the future!

3. Royal Caribbean Cruises

How do you even pick a destination when there are so many to choose from?! From the Caribbean to Alaska, the Mediterranean, and more, there is a destination for everyone and a ship that can entertain your entire family. Royal Caribbean recently renovated their own private island: Coco Cay in the Bahamas, giving you the Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Enjoy Coco Beach Club, a thrill water park, Oasis Lagoon, or chill by the beach. This destination is one that should not be missed. On Royal Caribbean, you can sail on short Caribbean escapes on newly renovated Mariner of the Seas, or enjoy the Oasis Class ships like Allure, Harmony, and Symphony of the Seas. Sailings range from 2,3,4,5,7, and 12-night sailings, making it easy to find something that satisfies what you need when looking for a cruise.

4. Disney Cruise Lines

Experience Disney on the high seas. Take the world-class service you receive inside a theme park and experience directly on a cruise ship. From the moment you step onboard a Disney cruise, your vacation includes everything you would want for you and your family. Enjoy Broadway-style musicals, fireworks at sea, spacious staterooms designed specifically for families, visit Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island in a true Bahamian paradise), and enjoy world-class dining prepared by amazing chefs in both adult-only and family restaurants. Wanting to meet Disney characters on board? You will have the opportunity to meet Mickey and friends, along with some of your favorite Disney Princesses as well!

5. Baha Mar Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re looking for a great destination to celebrate a special birthday, anniversary, or occasion, this is the place! Baha Mar is made up of 3 Nassau hotels- Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood each offer their own unique style of luxury and world-class service, so that way you can experience the beauty of a vacation in the Bahamas your own way. Baha Mar has a massive casino and multiple dining options, including a French restaurant and a beachfront bar, plus 9 outdoor pools, a swim-up bar and a poolside lounge.  Other amenities include a fitness center, a nightclub, a kids’ club, and a spa with a sauna and a steam room. There is so much to do here and it is absolutely beautiful! Not only can you spend your long weekend at Baha Mar on the beach, but it is a quick plane ride to Staniel Cay, where you can spend time swimming with the pigs and sharks. Read about my experience with both of these destinations HERE.

6. Sandals Resorts

Looking for 5 Star service? Look no further. Sandals Resorts has everything you need to really experience everything you need for a luxury all-inclusive vacation for adults only. Visit gorgeous beaches in Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada, and Barbados. All-inclusive service includes gourmet dining, bars serving premium liquor and wine, land and water sports, golfing, and PADI certified scuba diving at most resorts. If you’re looking for a destination wedding or honeymoon, Sandals is the leader in Caribbean destinations, and I definitely see why! If an all-inclusive vacation is on your list along with top-notch service, this is the resort for you!

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

Already on my list of places to visit in 2021, Reykjavik, Iceland is home to whale watching, the Blue Lagoon, Northern Lights, glacier climbing, and so much more. You can go on a Golden Circle tour or visit the Black Sand Beach. Staying in Reykjavik gives you the opportunity to embark on day tours to many of these locations, making it a great place to stay when visiting Iceland. Iceland has become a great place to visit because of its cheap flights from the East Coast, making it fairly easy to get you. Yes, it will be COLD, and YES it will be worth it!

8. Ireland

There are so many beautiful landscapes and sites to see when visiting Ireland including Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, The Blarney Stone, The Dark Hedges, and so much more! Visiting cities like Dublin, Galway, Dingle, and Cork and gives you some of the “Best of the Best” when visiting Ireland. Flying into Dublin gives you the opportunity to visit the city center and sites like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, The Guinness Storehouse, and The Temple Bar. While I don’t personally feel comfortable renting a car and driving the entire countryside route, many people do this and love it, allowing you to experience the entire country in a short amount of time. If staying in a hotel isn’t your thing, you can stay at a castle, with castles located all over the country! Ireland is packed with history including some of the oldest pubs in the world where you can find delicious and traditional Irish cuisine.

9. Santorini, Greece

Is Santorini on your bucket list? It should be! Santorini, Greece is one of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea. It was devasted by a volcanic eruption, which is why it has the shape it has today. Fira and Oia are at the top of the cliffs and are 2 destinations you will see when visiting Santorini. Santorini is famous for its beautiful sunsets, and if you have the opportunity to visit Santorini, you will definitely see why! No matter where you look, you will have stunning views all over the island. Food is fresh and tastes delicious, and you will enjoy fresh Greek cuisine at every restaurant that you visit. If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination, Santorini is an awesome place to consider. It’s romantic and offers so much for all types of travelers.

10. Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

For my 30th Birthday last year, I was lucky enough to visit Munich on my birthday and experience Oktoberfest. I thought this would be a one-time thing to cross off my bucket list, but I am already dreaming of the day when I can go back and enjoy this festival again! Oktoberfest is held over a 2-week period starting in September and ends on the first Sunday in October. It is the world’s largest festival, with more than 6 million people from around the world attending the event every year. If you have the chance to visit, you will definitely see why. This was one of my all-time favorite trips, and cannot wait to go back. The drinks, food, outfits, and overall good time making this an experience that everyone should get to be part of.

What is on your travel list for 2020? There are so many destinations and your opportunities are endless! Travel more, and worry less. This is the year for you!

Love and Travel Dust,

Molly