4 Destinations To Travel To Before The End Of The Year

When it comes to deciding where to travel for your next trip, it can feel like an impossible choice. We get it. In fact, it would probably be easier for us to write about the destinations we don't recommend you travel to. But we're not taking the easy way out! We've done the research for you. Here are our top four destinations to travel to before the year is out.

New Zealand

No matter what time of year it is, there are always plenty of reasons to travel to New Zealand. Whilst summer is the most popular time to visit, we recommend visiting in either fall or spring. The weather is still pretty good in these seasons, but you'll miss the bulk of the summer crowds.

Both spring and fall are perfect for hiking and exploring the beauty of New Zealand's national parks - without hordes of tourists. If you visit in spring, between the months of September and November, you'll be able to take advantage of daylight savings. This means extra daylight for longer hikes, where you can spend time taking in the scenery as well as the gorgeous spring blooms.

Cambodia

South East Asia is full of wonderful destinations for your next trip. Our personal favourite for 2019 is Cambodia. This country has something for everyone, making it the perfect location for those who can't decide what kind of trip they're looking for.

It has miles of glorious beaches, vibrant nightlife, history, delicious food, fascinating culture and friendly locals. In his 'The One Thing'blog series at 1Cover, Ben Groundwater also recommends that Phnom Penh should be top of your places to visit. Although many tourists skip Cambodia's capital, it has a lot to offer if you're willing to spend some time discovering the city's hidden gems.

Japan

If you love sport, head to Japan later this year in time for the Rugby World Cup. It’s the first to be held in Asia and the perfect opportunity to enjoy some sport as well as taking in some of the delights Japan has to offer.

Each of the host cities will be linked by bullet train, making it easy for you to explore the country at the same time. The host cities include Shizuoka, a city at the foot of Mt Fuji, and Oita Prefecture - described by the Rugby World Cup organisers as a "nature lover's paradise". Over 70% of the area is either forest or volcanic landscape - and it has access to the Beppu hot springs, which produce more hot spring water than anywhere else in Japan.

Cook Islands

If you want to switch off and relax, head to the Cook Islands. They are located in the South Pacific, between French Polynesia and Fiji, but remain relatively undiscovered by tourists. Private islands, white sand and turquoise lagoons - what's not to love?

You can fly to Rarotonga from Auckland, Sydney, Fiji or LA, where you'll be able to get a connecting flight to your chosen island.