Top 5: Countries to Visit in 2017

It’s only two months into the New Year and 2017 already seems to be shaping up to be a banner year for budget travel. The American dollar is historically high, which means your money will go further in many destinations around the globe. Airfares are expected to fall this year, so book your trips while you can.

Where should you visit on your next trip? From the beaches of Bermuda to glorious Granada, we’ve compiled a list of the top five countries to visit this year.

International Lanaudiere Dog Sledding Race, Quebec, Canada © Mircea Costina | Dreamstime

Canada

Marking 150 years since confederation, the year-long birthday party promises to welcome international gatecrashers. With a weak Canadian dollar pushing down prices, the overseas visitor should have plenty of money to spend on the country’s exciting fusion food and underrated wine.

The Arktitkum in Rovaniemi, Finland © Doods Dumaguing | Flickr

Finland

Finally gaining independence from Russia and Sweden in 1917, Finland will celebrate their centenary with pizazz. There are numerous events planned in every region, from fresco concerts and culinary experiences to sauna evenings and vintage travel poster exhibitions — experience it all. A new national park is also open to explore; a 27,000-acre piece of land in Hossa is studded with pine forests and crossed with rivers. Finland is also hosting the World Figure Skating Championships and the Nordic World Ski Championships this year, allowing visitors to take advantage of the country’s unique culture and landscape.

Bermuda

Just off the coast of North Carolina, the British territory of Bermuda is often mistaken for a Caribbean island. The island is reachable from most major East Coast U.S. cities in two hours. In June, the country will host America’s Cup, where the United States will defend its title. Moderate climates and favorable winds make Bermuda the perfect location for the historic sailing race.

© Elena Luria | Dreamstime

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is as exotic as countries come — where else can you get 13 months of sunshine? Whether you’re trekking through the Simien Mountains to witness wildlife or climbing to a church carved into a remote cliff face or boating across the serene waters of Lake Tana to visit an age-old monastery, there’s no doubt you’ll be overwhelmed by the country’s beauty. This year, new airline links will help make the country more accessible than ever. Be one of the first to board.

Dominica

One glimpse of the prehistoric ferns and deserted shores and you’ll think you’re on your own private island. For decades, an absence of shiny white beaches helped keep away the resort development that swept across the Caribbean. The only skyscrapers you’ll see here are coconut palms. Visit Dominica before the first large-scale chain resort is built in 2018, which will pave the way for a new era of tourism.