Fodor's Go List 2014

It's still the trip of a lifetime, 100 years after Shackleton's heroic journey

Why Go Now: With its stark and sometimes dangerous beauty, and engaging wildlife like seals and penguins, Antarctica is one of Earth's incredible untamed frontiers—and irresistible to explorers and travelers. In 1914 Sir Ernest Shackleton began his Imperial Trans-Antarctic Exploration, hoping to cross from one side of Antarctica to the other. His ship, the Endurance, sank, but Shackleton and five others rowed 800 nautical miles and then returned to rescue the others. This saga's 100-year anniversary is the perfect time to consider an Antarctic cruise aboard the deluxe or .

Insider Tip: Reading lists, like packing lists, are vital for this journey. Shackleton's is a classic, while Sarah Wheeler's more recent vividly describes the journalist's seven-month Antarctic stay. Original photographs from Robert F. Scott's and Ernest Shackleton's expeditions reproduced in convey the continent's majesty.

When to Go: November through March, the Southern Hemisphere's summer, is the window for Antarctic cruises. November is quieter (fewer visitors at sites) but colder, with impressive icebergs. December and January are popular because of the long days and baby penguins on view. From mid-February through March you see more whales—but fewer penguins.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using Fodor's , and read a from our community. Plan the time before or after your cruise with Fodor's and guides. –Linda Cabasin

Commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War I in Europe's quaintest country

Why Go Now: Snuggled in between the Netherlands, Germany, and France, Belgium is sometimes overlooked on European itineraries. But its medieval cities are charming architectural treasures, and Belgian beer and chocolate are synonymous with excellence. 2014 marks the centenary of the start of World War I, and while events will occur throughout Europe over the next four years, the Flanders Field region is taking center stage. Home to several important battles throughout the war, including the very first one in Liege, there are memorials, battlefields, cemeteries, and museums ready for visitors to explore, including special exhibits and tours created just for the occasion.

Insider Tip: Due to Flanders's calm, rolling terrain, a is the perfect way to explore and learn about the Western Front battlegrounds.

When to Go: While many museums will offer exhibits commemorating the war as early as February, the actual anniversary of the first battle is in August, marking the official beginning of the centenary.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Amanda Sadlowski

Venture to an exotic and tranquil Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas

Why Go Now: The country that invented the quotient of Gross National Happiness wants you to experience its beguiling charms, but only on its terms. Closed off from the world for decades, Bhutan has only allowed tourism since 1974. Those willing to go the extra mile to come here are rewarded with a traditional Buddhist society that has also embraced modern conveniences. Visit the (Tiger's Nest Monastery), perched on a perilous cliff, or the to see the takin, Bhutan's national animal, which resembles a goat crossed with a horse. Only two airlines are allowed to fly here, so the country remains difficult to reach, although that exclusivity is part of its allure.

Insider Tip: Completely independent travel to Bhutan is not allowed. You must have a guide and go on a government-approved itinerary. There's also a minimum cost of $200 to $250 per day if you stay in the country's most basic three-star hotels. Happily, this price includes your guide, meals, and transportation (except flights).

When to Go: Spring and fall are optimum times to visit for lush greenery and popular regional festivals. Winter and summer attracts fewer travelers as you run the risk of extreme cold or the monsoon season.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Doug Stallings

Already rich in culture and adventure, Bolivia has added gastronomy to its appeal

Why Go Now: Intrepid travelers know all about Bolivia’s off-the-grid adventures, but with no hotspots or luxury hotels to speak of, it’s never been on many globetrotters’ radars. That may change now that co-founder Claus Meyer opened his second restaurant, , in last April. It was a surprising move—the high altitude here impacts culinary alchemy and appetites—with the potential to attract traveling foodies to this fascinating corner of South America. Once there, they’ll discover astonishing landscapes full of salt flats, deserts, lagoons, and lakes, plus a rich indigenous culture unlike any in the world.

Insider Tip: You can eat á la carte at Gustu, but the 5-, 7-, or 15-course tasting menu with wine is the way to go. At a reasonable $65-plus a person, it’s the best-value gastronomic experience you’re likely to have in 2014.

When to Go: Late June to early September has the best weather and festivals, but also commands top dollar (by Bolivian standards). April to June and September to October offer excellent value and fewer crowds.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Arabella Bowen

Expect an all-out party when the World Cup returns to this soccer-crazed country

Why Go Now: Soccer is a passion and an art form in Brazil, and the country's fervor will be on full display when it hosts the FIFA World Cup in 2014. Hundreds of thousands of visitors will descend on Brazil for the event, looking to cheer on their national teams from 12 host cities spread across the country. Brazil has erected roughly 150 new hotels for the World Cup, and the foodie scene continues to boom. In between matches, you can choose between adventures: a trek through the , a spray-soaked ride into raging waterfalls, or a relaxing afternoon on Rio's stylish .

Insider Tip: If you don't have tickets for the World Cup, you can still soak in the atmosphere at a fan-fest locale: a designated beach or public space in each host city where crowds will be able to follow the matches on massive screens while enjoying live music and festivities.

When to Go: The World Cup runs from June 12-July 13, and Rio's Carnival usually takes place in February. To avoid massive crowds, head to Brazil in September or October, when the weather is mild and the prices are lower.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Luke Epplin

With hip cities, gorgeous scenery, and popular vineyards, it's redefining West Coast cool

Why Go Now: Canada's western province is ready to shine. Cities like and have exploded with new bars and chic hotels in recent years, while still maintaining their small-town charm. Beach bums can head out to the Pacific Rim's coastal towns of , which offer dramatic waves for surfers and unbeatable whale-watching opportunities for those who prefer to stay dry. Skiers will find snow paradise (along with legendary après-ski nightlife) in the mountains of , while less active travelers won't be able to resist the vineyards of , known as the "Napa of the North."

Insider Tip: British Columbia is home to over 30 First Nations groups, with several museums and cultural centers to help visitors learn the history of these aboriginal peoples. Join First Nation members at the every summer, complete with drumming circles, dances, and traditional foods.

When to Go: With beaches and skiing, British Columbia has something to offer season, but the weather is at its nicest and the crowds at their smallest in September.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Amanda Sadlowski

A vibrant, historic city that's one of South America's newest hotspots.

Why Go Now: A decade ago, travelers tended to stay away from Cartagena, wary of the country's drug trade, but with a stabilized, cleaned-up economy, travelers are flocking to this stunning walled city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Direct flights from New York, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale make the trip fast and easy. Once there, check out the for insight into the area's history from pre-Colombian days, including instruments of torture used in the Inquisition. For more light-hearted fun, head out to art galleries like (which has work by local and international artists), or check out restaurants serving the freshest seafood, or try salsa dancing till the wee hours.

Insider Tip: There are plenty of sights to see in the Old City: rent bikes for even easier exploring. If beaches are your thing, take a day trip to nearby Islas del Rosario, or if you have a few days to spare, head to Isla Grande off the coast of Panama.

When to Go: December through April is the dry season, with temperatures in the mid 70s to the high 80s. The annual will take place January 30-February 2, 2014, bringing together writers and artists from 20 countries. The city's is set for March 13-19, 2014.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Caroline Trefler

Visit for the giant pandas and ancient temples—plus the spiciest food in China

Why Go Now: Sichuanese warn their children, “don’t go to Chengdu when you’re young,” because there’s a real danger of falling for this dynamic city, smack in the middle of China. Chengdu’s famed Panda Research Center is reason enough to travel halfway around the world, but that’s just for starters. Join locals sipping tea in one of its many tea gardens and parks. Savor some of the spiciest food on the planet. Then, add in a little art: Chengdu is quickly becoming known for it’s contemporary arts scene and recently hosted its 6th Biennial.

Insider Tip: Visit the during feeding time between 9 and 10 am and watch in awe as the cuddly beasts nibble bamboo. You can even hold a baby bear for a small donation.

When to Go: Chengdu has mild, humid weather and four distinct seasons with a long, languid spring. Avoid the lowest and highest temperatures by visiting from March to June or from September to November.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Margaret Kelly

An all-American city for baseball fans, outdoor enthusiasts, and dedicated foodies

Why Go Now: The fact that 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of Wrigley Field, with planned activities throughout Chicago all year to celebrate isn’t the only reason to visit the windy city this year. With culinary hotspots like and , exclusive bars like and the famous boutique , started by Michele Obama favorite Ikram Goldman, Chicago’s star continues to rise. And now it’s also home to the , the world’s only hotel in a Mies Van Der Rohe-designed building, as well as the nation’s largest bike share program, with 300 stations across the city.

Insider Tip: Be sure to catch a show at , the comedy troupe that’s an incubator for famous Saturday Night Live alums (like Jim Belushi and Tina Fey). Remember—if the early shows sell out, you can almost always get tickets for the 11 pm weekend show.

When to Go: Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable but in general winters are frigid and summers are sunny. Enjoy a Cubs game at Wrigley Field in the spring; in the summer, experience Chicago’s outdoor festivals; and in the winter, see the city decked out in holiday lights.

Plan your Trip: Start planning using –Kristan Schiller

Come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, stay for the microbrews and posh resorts

Why Go Now: As February's Olympic games approach, winter sports will be on everyone's mind, and no place in the United States offers better winter activities than Colorado. The state's champagne powder and thrilling downhill runs through the majestic Rocky Mountains lure skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Après-ski, you can relax at a posh resort in ski-towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge. The summer months bring forth different outdoor adventures like excellent hiking, rafting, fishing, and horseback riding. Don't forget to spend a few days in vibrant Denver and Boulder, where superb microbreweries and trendy galleries have proliferated.

Insider Tip: Microbrews may command all the attention, but one of Colorado's best-kept secrets is its burgeoning wine scene. Vineyards in the state's northwest corner produce a range of whites and reds. You can take winery tours in and .

When to Go: If you want to hit the slopes, book a trip for January or February. For hiking and other outdoor activities, aim for July or August.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using Fodor's . –Luke Epplin

Enjoy "scene," sun, and sand on this French- and Italian-accented island

Why Go Now: There's never a bad time to explore this culturally vibrant, gastronomically blessed French island in the Mediterranean Sea. Snap your fingers alongside the hip Parisian crowd that descends each June for the jazz festival. Or celebrate the birth of Corsica's most famous son, Napoleon, during an August celebration filled with processions and fireworks. Home to a vivid food culture, festivals and markets year-round celebrate the island's bounty. You can also spend hours strolling the miles of pristine beaches or snorkeling the crystalline waters.

Insider Tip: Pack hiking boots to fully enjoy the striking hills on the island, especially Cap Corse on the northern end. You won't want to miss the stone villas, lime trees, olive groves, and rocky fjords—just a few of Corsica's marvelous natural features.

When to Go: For cooler weather and less crowded beaches, visit in late spring or fall. June and October are the perfect months to experience the pinnacle of Corsican cuisine.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using –Amanda Oppold

An under-the-radar city getaway that's closer (and cooler) than you realize

Why Go Now: A hip, new, cultural- and design-savvy Detroit is emerging from what remains of Motor City. Some compare it to hipster Brooklyn because of the microbreweries, coffee shops, organic bakeries, guerilla farming, forward fashion boutiques, and funky cocktail spots popping up all over town. Art is a big draw these days, especially as talk continues about whether the world-class will have to sell off important works to pay Detroit's creditors. If you're interested in more avant-garde work, check out the many new gallery spaces, or the Heidelberg Project, a blocks-long outdoor art project where the houses are the works of art. Beer aficionados tout the quality and diversity of Detroit area microbreweries, while foodies love Detroit for its innovative new restaurants, and for the feast of artisanal food and local procedure that takes place every Saturday morning at the .

Insider Tip: Detroit's renaissance means there are festivals and special events most of the year, so plan to get out with the locals. is the weekly celebration organized by the Detroit Institute of Art, with music, workshops, and food. Every , venues all over town stay open late with openings, exhibits, and all sorts of programs. Also of note: JetBlue is set to introduce a new direct in March 2014.

When to Go: Late spring, summer, and early fall are the most popular time to visit Detroit, when the weather's fine and you can rent a bike to tour the city. Winters tend to be cold and less hospitable, with sudden snowstorms.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Caroline Trefler

The most beautiful wine country in the world borders a wonderfully wild coastline

Why Go Now: One of the world's oldest wine regions and a UNESCO world heritage site, the Douro Valley remains one of Europe's lesser-explored gems. But this may soon change. Recent awards for the country's wines, especially the affordable, deep, rich Douro reds and effervescent vinho verdes, have spurred a savvier hospitality industry all along the wine trail. Porto, Portugal's famed second city and the Douro Valley anchor, is at the ocean's edge, so a day at the beach is certainly not out of the question.

Insider Tip: No trip to this region is complete without a boat ride on the Douro River, whose curve after curve of terraced vineyards together form a World Heritage Site. The less-traveled Rota dos Vinhos Verdes (Green Wine Route) explores the young wines produced across the Minho.

When to Go: It's best to visit the Douro Valley in summer when it's warm and the vines are bursting. Try your hand at harvesting in September.

Plan Your Trip: Start planning using . –Margaret Kelly