Happy 300th birthday, NoLa! If it's your first time, or first time in a while, this is the year to visit the "Big Easy." Catch beads on Bourbon Street- just to get it out of your system. Then experience all that New Orleans has to offer, from historic landscapes and jazz to some of the best food in the South!

Chiang Mai offers a stark contrast to the bustle of Bangkok. Within Thailand's northern hills, Chiang Mai is surrounded by jungle on all sides. You may walk the classic city, sharing your path with barefoot Monks. Appreciate ancient Asian architecture including both ruins and immaculate temples. Explore it's developing arts scene and unique local cuisine.

Florence might be my favorite Italian city. It is the capital of the Tuscany region and was historically the center of medieval European trade and finance. Along with absolutely amazing food, Florence, most famously, attracts Tourists to the Duomo and the Uffizi.

Ireland offers the complete travel experience. Dublin, the capital, boasts historic buildings, a 13th century castle, the famous St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Guinness. Yet, outside the city, there is a wealth of beauty including Galway's Connemara National Park, the mighty Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands.

Isarael sets the bar for those seeking spirituality in their travels. This ancient city is regarded by Jews, Christians and Muslims as the biblical Holy Land. In Jerusalem, you must embrace your inner tourist to experience sacred monuments including the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. In Tel Aviv, you'll enjoy underrated restaurants, nightlife, and a one-of-a-kind beach scene.

Egypt links Northeast Africa and the MIddle East. It is a cultural paradise. Start in Cairo, but make your way outside the city to visit Giza's colossal Pyramids and Great Sphinx, along with Luxor's Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings tombs.

Chilean Patagonia is the perfect blend of romance and adventure. But, this date is with Mother Nature. Travel here to view icy glaciers, expansive forests, and the dramatic peaks of the Andes. After a day of exploration, retreat to your lodge for a night of Chilean wine, steak, and fresh seafood.

Though it may sound foreign, Rovinj is a popular tourist destination and a historic fishing village. This cobble stoned town is boarded on three sides by the Adriatic Sea, which is centered by the hilltop church of St. Euphemia. Along the coast-line, Lone Bay offers a beautifully picturesque pebble beach ,while the archipelago’s 14 islands sit adjacent to the peninsula's mainland.

Zanzibar is located in the Indian Ocean just 15 miles off the Tanzanian coast. Go here to escape from the world. This African archipelago contains turquoise waters, an abundance of tiny deserted islands, and several tiny fishing villages- all perfect to explore. Don't forget to extend your trip to the Tanzanian mainland to experience Africa's natural wildlife and, of course, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Seville makes the list as the highly coveted "Number 1 Travel Destination" to visit in 2018. Congrats, Seville! You will sit in the shadows of Madrid and Barcelona no more! Let the Flamenco music play while the smell of fine tapas draws me into Seville's shadowed bar scene. In the morning, we will visit the Alcazar of Seville, most recently featured in HBO's Game of Thrones. It's beauty is steeped in its long history with Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architectural influences.

In December, 2017, Finland celebrates 100 years of independence. However, the festivities will be held throughout the year. In fact, Finland is known for a variety of Summer Festivals with August being the operative month. Finland offers a wealth of diverse museums and world class saunas. Don’t overlook this point. There’s a private sauna on a raft and one in a castle. Elsewhere in this northern oasis, breathtaking natural forests meets mesmerizing aurora lights.  Be sure to eat like a local. Try reindeer and apologize to Santa while drinking local beer. Cheers to 100 years, Finland!

There’s many reasons to visit Canada. If you live nearby in “The States,” maybe you’ll find just one more reason for a trip in 2017. Montreal is special. Old Montreal brings the rustic look and feel of an old walkable European city, paved with cobblestone and filled with local shops and vendors. Yet, Montreal is evolving as Canada’s cultural capital with neighborhoods that resemble (new) Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This is a French town with French customs, French language, and French food. To be clear, we’re talking the best French food outside of France! “Trust us, we know French food- Montreal is the best.” Montreal is a culinary dream. It’s the perfect travel destination for a foodie and it needs to be on your calendar in 2017. 

As China’s largest city, and with a population over 24 million, Shanghai won’t be your deserted beach vacation. Shanghai is divided into two districts, Puxi and Pudong, which are best characterized as representing the past and present cultures of the city. There is a world to explore in Shanghai- you won’t get to it all. But, explore this worldly city including the culture, the art, impressive temples and historic structures, and of course, China’s amazing and authentic cuisine.

Munich has a reputation and it’s not what you think. Trust me, Bavaria is beautiful. Fall in love with the classic gothic architecture while walking through Marienplatz in central Munich. Or, take a trip to the nearby Alps for a breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of Europe. Ok, let’s not forget the food and beverage scene. Octoberfest is epic, but there’s no shortage of biergartens to make memories year-round. Bavarian food is heavy, but delicious, and most appropriate when accompanied by a stein. So, if you like tailgating, you’ll love Munich!

Montana makes the list for 2017! It’s a winter wonderland for part of the year and the great outdoors during the summer. Hiking, rafting, fishing, and wildlife make Jackson Hole a fan-favorite for nature-lovers. Jackson Hole sits under the beauty of Teton Mountains. It’s a short ride away from Yellowstone National Park and Old Faithful. 

You know it when you see it. The magic of Santorini is captured among blue roofs covering bright white buildings, overlooking the sapphire Aegean Sea. There’s not many places that offer outstanding food, beautiful (black sand) beaches, some of the world’s best wine, and an active volcano, all within an ancient city. It’s a top spot for honeymoon travel or simply escaping the grind.

Archeological sites, Mayan ruins, and preserved ancient temples make Tulum a unique cultural experience. The beautiful ocean, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea makes for exquisitely long walks along the beach. Leave your Spring Break aspirations at the door. Tulum is a bit more of a tranquil oasis. In 2017, modern, yet truly local resorts make Tulum an excellent choice if you want to get away.

Way back in 2007, a good friend raved about travel to Reykjavic. And I ignored him! Ten years later, it’s time to listen to your respective travel guru. Your social media feed has been filled with images that more closely resemble a fantasy drama on HBO than an affordable vacation. Aside from stunning scenery, Reykjavik is known for its locally sourced cuisine, evolving art and music scene, and outdoor (or indoor) spas and baths. Enjoy epic night skies that can only be found in a land considered the northern-most capital of our lovely planet Earth.

Way back in 2007, a good friend raved about travel to Reykjavic. And I ignored him! Ten years later, it’s time to listen to your respective travel guru. Your social media feed has been filled with images that more closely resemble a fantasy drama on HBO than an affordable vacation. Aside from stunning scenery, Reykjavik is known for its locally sourced cuisine, evolving art and music scene, and outdoor (or indoor) spas and baths. Enjoy epic night skies that can only be found in a land considered the northern-most capital of our lovely planet Earth. 

Mother Africa makes the list of dream destinations. Explore the beautiful beaches along Africa’s southern most points. Journey to breathtaking Table Mountain, names one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. In 2017, the Museum of Contemporary African Art opens along the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This only adds to Cape Town’s captivating art scene. And, you won’t get hungry. Rather than tourist trap dining, Cape Town is known for its local and by some standards, adventurous gastronomies. Test Kitchen may be Cape Town’s most prestigious restaurants, ranking among the top 25 in the world. But, be sure to explore the lesser known local venues as well. Prepare to be blown away by breath-taking landscape, culture, and cuisine. 

We found heaven. This upper west side newcomer serves the whole hog...well the entirety of all animals on the menu, really. And that's really special! Its part restaurant, part butcher shop and they're open now!

This feature is all about Chef Johnny Spero. With experience at Mugaritz, Minibar, Noma, Komi, and Town House, Spero's culinary influence spans from Jose Andres, Rene Redzepi, and Andoni Luis Aduriz’s, among others. While the menu is a work in progress, we're hearing rumors of bone marrow, uni, and lovage ice cream. This will be special!

Your friends are probably already talking about Tim Ho Wan, commonly described as the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant. Known for awesome dim sum, there are already 44 restaurants open throughout Asia. Number 45 is set to open in NYC this year.

This New York-loft styled restaurant is already off and running in 2017. Award winning owners James and Louis Rusk brought a touch of Spain to Scotland with The Spanish Butcher. We're excited to try their extensive and impressive menu options such as 30-month salt-cured Jamon Iberico or the Galician steak.

Kansas City is on the map thanks to Michael Corvino! Formerly of the American, Michael and his wife Christina, will open Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room in KC's Crossroads Art District. We're talking two restaurants in one. Part A is a supper club with casual dining and live music nightly. Part B is am eighteen seat tasting room centered around a semi-open kitchen.

Eric Sun, considered the "hunter-gatherer" chef, is opening two interconnected restaurants focused on "whole-animal" cooking. The Arsenal has a high-end vibe with asian flavors, and small farm raised kobe beef. The Hunted will feature fire cooking, game meats, and all things that make us drool.

Wildflower is the newest culinary attraction at Como The Treasury. Executive Chef Jed Gerrard developed a unique menu revolving around the six indigenous seasons and featuring the finest Western Australian produce.

The menu changes daily but you can bet on nose-to-tail dining from Giles & James Edwards. This French bistro sits on popular Bree Street featuring an exciting array or meats and unique dessert creations.

Edourado Jordan of Salare will open his second restaurant. June Baby in early 2017. This near 60 patron venue will tell a story of the African Diaspora through a unique menu influenced by the historic diet of African slaves and the traditional cuisines of the American South. We can't wait to experience this menu and Chef Jordan's vision.

With Noma now closed in Copenhagen, we're excited to see Rene Redzepi's newest incarnation of his globally admired restaurant in Mexico. For the foodies that missed the legendary venue in Denmark, Noma finds a fresh start in Tulum, a beautiful backdrop which is featured by Weekend Pilgrim as a "Top Travel in 2017" destination.