You need to add these destinations to your list
Life begins outside your comfort zone. Travel trends are showing that travellers are wanting deeper and more meaningful connections with the people and places around them. Not only is travel about exploring more of what the world has to offer but it’s also about exploring yourself and who you are as a person. We’ve put together an epic list of up and coming destinations you need to add to your travel bucket list for 2019 - do something unexpected.
Japan
You might not immediately think of Japan as a motorhome destination, but let us invite you in for a closer look. From the dazzling lights of Tokyo to peaceful green spaces, this island nation will leave you wanting more. Die-hard flower fanatics often opt for the Tokyo Cherry Blossom Festival (March/April). If you do want to check out the cotton candy hue of these gorgeous trees (Sakura) in Japan, Kyoto and Tokyo are generally the most popular destinations for flower-watchers, usually in April. If you’re not at all interested in cherry blossoms then Japan still has plenty for you to see and do while on a motorhome holiday. The 2019 Rugby World Cup will be held in September and it will be an experience not to be missed. If you’re wanting to dodge the crowds venture out on one of our epic itineraries and find a quieter corner of Japan to explore. We recommend picking up your motorhome in Tokyo and getting straight out of the city to explore further.
Highlands, Scotland
Dodge the crowds, duck off the beaten track and get to know Scotland a little better. The Highlands really is the Scotland of your imagination. It's an amazing concoction of culture, history, architecture and unparalleled scenery. Think big skies, mind-blowing landscapes, superb food and hospitable people - it really doesn't get any better if you want to escape and unwind. Unpredictable. Untameable. Unbelievable. You’ll lose yourself (not literally) in the majestic mountains and mysterious lochs as you journey through this beautiful land.
Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
This historically pivotal national park is full of cliffs, mountains, coves, riversides, preserved cabins and churches. The Sugarlands Visitor Center is a perfect starting point to learn the history of the park, pick up trail maps or make reservations for ranger-led programs. Some places you just need to see as the leaves are changing colour and The Smokies are famous for their colourful trees in fall. For the opposite - there’s an explosion of wildflowers in spring and summer. More than 1,500 flowering plants can be found in the region; visit from mid-April to mid-May for the best blooms. If you’re a country music fan, don’t miss out on visiting Dolly Parton’s theme park ‘Dollywood’ for a real Southern experience.
Normandy, France
Normandy is rugged and full of heavy history. In 2019, all eyes will be on the D-Day Landing Beaches and the sites of the Battle of Normandy. The 75th Anniversary will be commemorated with numerous events and festivities such as parades, tours, firework displays, airdrops and military camp re-enactments. This rich and often brutal past is brought vividly to life by the spectacular and iconic island monastery of Mont St-Michel; the incomparable Bayeux Tapestry, world-famous for its scenes of 11th-century life; and the fascinating cemeteries and memorials along the sombre D-Day beaches.
“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before”. - Dalai Lama
Argentina, South America
This immense nation boasts a wide variety of experiences for motorhome travellers to discover - no matter what kind of holiday you’re looking for, Argentina is bound to astound and delight you. Fall in love with the iconic outline of Mount Fitz Roy - the area surrounding the range is full of treks and hiking routes that show off the granite peaks from different angles and perspectives. Have you ever wanted to hike across a glacier? Well now you can! In Los Glaciares National Park, one of the most spectacular spots to visit is the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier. Its sheer breadth, colouration, and easy access have made it one of the most famous tourist glaciers in Patagonia, and thanks to its stability, you can go for an ice trek across it! Argentina is still a bit of a secret, and who doesn't love exploring places untouched by mass tourism. The show never stops in this part of South America.
Norway
Norway is much larger than most people realise. This vast adventure playground is full of friendly locals, jaw dropping scenery, epic coffee (they know how to make a good brew), troll folklore, cutting edge architecture and the midnight sun. Road trip along Norway's Atlantic Ocean Road and drive over the Storseisundet Bridge, a vertigo-inducing crossing that makes you feel as though they're driving in the sky. Get ready to experience a once-in-a-lifetime holiday in one of the world's most beautiful countries.
Mozambique, Africa
There are a variety of stunning landscapes in Mozambique; you'll be spoilt for choice on your motorhome trip. Snorkel around picture-perfect islands, safari tours or explore the natural untouched beauty of their national parks. Grab yourself a motorhome and head over for the journey of a lifetime. Highlights of travelling Mozambique include the stunning city of Maputo which is easily one of Africa's most attractive capitals.
South Africa
South Africa, the rainbow nation. Majestic wildlife, colourful dive spots, serene vineyards and beautiful beaches are all waiting for you. Seek and you shall find whatever your heart desires. We recommend driving the Garden Route, an epic journey where you’ll be spoilt with epic scenery along the way. We recommend checking out Tsitsikamma National Park, well known for its stunning forest, or take a shorter hike to walk over Storms River suspension bridge with swirling waters beneath
Alaska
The word epic barely does Alaska justice. It's a state of incredible national parks, beautiful wildlife and some of the cleanest air you'll ever breathe. To experience an Alaska that few travellers ever see, you’ll want to journey to the far west, east, and north of the state to seek out remote communities, local experiences, and people living in extremes that most of us can’t even fathom.
The future is all about travelling to the lesser known corners of the globe and this list of motorhome friendly locations is the perfect place to start.
Even outside of this list above, trust that Motorhome Republic can deliver! Grab campervan rentals from Bucharest, from Botswana, from Namibia, and conquer the world on wheels!
Written By: Charlotte Lightbody
Exploring by motorhome is my favourite way to immerse myself in a different place/culture. My favourite so far? The Southern States of the USA - epic food, amazing people and the most beautiful scenery. I could go on about that trip forever!
Exploring by motorhome is my favourite way to immerse myself in a different place/culture. My favourite so far? The Southern States of the USA - epic food, amazing people and the most beautiful scenery. I could go on about that trip forever!