39 minutes ago
North America:
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA- If you're looking for a unique American experiences, head south to the bayou. The parties in the Big Easy last all night and it's the only place in the US where drinking on the streets is legal. Check out Bourbon Street for cheap drinks. Better yet, if you're looking for something less touristy, head to Frenchman Street. Try some of Louisiana's Cajun cuisine and wash down the spice with some local alcoholic specialties like Abita Beer, a Hurricane or a Grenade. Last, but certainly not least, buy some cheap plastic beads from any store and offer them to any woman wearing cheap plastic beads. Following tradition, she should lift up her blouse revealing her chest, and you in return should toss her some beads. The bigger they are, the more beads you should throw.
South America:
Cartagena, Colombia- Cartagena is situated in the northeast corner of Colombia and is considered a local and international party destination. The classic downtown area where most of the bars are at is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning you can party and sight see at the same time (there's not to many places in the world like that left today). Plus the beaches are stunning and there are some islands a short boat ride away if you wanna sleep your hangover off in privacy. There's a plethora of hostels and cheap Colombian eats everywhere you go, so you don't have to break your wallet either. This once ancient pirate city is also the best place to find a capitan at the marina and hitchhike by boat through the San Blas Islands all the way to Panama. It's the trip of a lifetime! Simply go to the harbor and yell "Panama! Panama!" and some one will approach you within 15 minutes.Trust me on this one.
Europe:
London, England, the UK- They say if you're tired of London, you're tired of life. And it's true. Despite being a world clubbing capital with pubs on every corner, London is to host the 2012 Olympic games. Just when you thought an average Friday night in the capital was crazy enough, foreigners from all over the world will be flowing in to add to the celebrations. If your liver needs a break, check out some of the city's famous attractions, monuments and museums that are all located in the downtown area. Warning- London is expensive, so start putting in your overtime hours now and think about reserving a room if you plan on going for the Olympics.
Asia:
Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China- Most who want to explore Chinese culture head to the Mainland and often forget about tiny Taiwan off the coast. Huge mistake. Taipei has all the elements of Chinese culture plus a thriving bar scene, beaches a chop stick throw away, incredible food, cheap prices, warm weather nearly year round and some of the most hospitable people on the planet. Furthermore, since many travelers skip this hidden jewl, nothing is too touristy and the locals will treat you as a guest rather than an annoying tourst. So skip the Chinese visa process and come to hassel free Taiwan to before it's too late!
Africa:
Cairo, Egypt- Now is without a doubt the best time to travel to the land of the Sphinx. Tourism fell off the top of the pyramid due to the Arab Spring demonstrations, meaning prices are sand cheap, you don't have to worry about a tourist standing in front of you while you take pictures of 5,000 year old monuments and you can witness firsthand the historic democratic transformation of the country. Better yet, Egypt, unlike many other Islamic nations, allows alcohol consumption, so you can grab a cold one at the end of the day too cool off from the hellish sun. Go now before the tourist start returning to this world renowned travel destination.
Australia/Oceania:
Dili, East Timor- While this tiny Portuguese speaking country located in the southeastern part of Indonesia technically isn't part of geopolitical Oceania, we'll go ahead and count it as a Pacific Island nation. East Timor is perfect for anyone wanting to explore off the beaten track. Plus, it's only been an independent nation for 10 years, leaving it little time to bleep on the tourist radar. Saying that, go in May to witness the 10 year anniversary of the country and celebrate with the locals. There's no 5 start resorts, the infrastructure is a bit in ruins and the culture is largely untouched by western influence- PERFECT! Head to East Timor for a truly unique experience and check out a fascinating culture, great diving and enjoy white sandy beaches all to yourself.
Pack your bags. Looks like 2012 might be a bussier year than you expected...
