On Trend Destinations 2019

24/04/2019

An up and coming destination promises new experiences, raw landscapes of beauty and hopefully fewer travellers. There is also something very satisfying about visiting an old favourite spot and seeing it in a new light or with a twist. Right now the destinations that are trending for Crooked Compass in 2019 are those that offer our travellers the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture, learn more about the destination they are visiting and give back to the community they are travelling to. Some of these destinations are emerging and some are old favourites. Join us we explore the destinations that are on trend right now…

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is well and truly one of the last remaining frontiers on earth – remote islands, extreme landscapes, hidden tribes, abundant flora and unique fauna. To travel to this unexplored and unique destination is to have an experience like no other – wild and raw sums it up!

Papua New Guinea has lots of festivals to immerse yourself in – Rabaul Mask Festival, Mount Hagan Cultural Show, Kenu & Kundu Festival but there is no festival in the world like the Ambunti Crocodile Festival. A cultural and environmental celebration, this WWF backed festival takes place over three days in August, highlighting the importance of the crocodile and its cultural significance amongst the local Sepik River communities.

Local child, Tufi, Papua New Guinea
Local child, Tufi, Papua New Guinea

North Korea

To venture through this ‘Hermit Kingdom’ is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. North Korea is one of the world’s most secretive and closed off countries. This incredible country is a living time capsule, stuck somewhere between the liberation from the Japanese in 1945 and the present day.  A trip to North Korea is a chance to uncover a country slowly changing as the modern world around continues to progress – this hidden world is waiting for those curious enough to explore. A trip to this country is a rare opportunity, with only 10,000 western travellers visiting annually.

The natural beauty of North Korea will surprise you. Travel in Cherry Blossom season and experience one of the world’s most beautiful national phenomena in a country most people would not think cherry blossoms bloom. North Korea is definitely a heaven for any landscape or travel photographer.

Mt Paekdu
Mt Paekdu

Georgia

Looking for the lesser known side of Europe? Totally off the tourist radar, an enchanting journey through the untouched lands of Georgia is for those who love to explore outdoors. Trek through the fabled and mysterious mountain region of Svaneti, Georgia. Discover wild landscapes dotted with quaint stone villages, friendly locals who welcome you into their home to fill you up on their flavoursome traditional cooking, defensive watchtowers that punctuate the scenery and local wine crafted by the Svan’s themselves.

Little known fact – Georgia is the birthplace of wine and is one of the world’s oldest wine producing region. It was accidentally produced for the first time between eight to ten thousand years ago in the Caucasian region. The wine was created by the incidental fermentation on grapes that was later forgotten in a container.

Ushguli to one of Georgia's glaciers || Photo credit: Crooked Compass
Ushguli to one of Georgia’s glaciers || Photo credit: Crooked Compass

Lebanon

Lebanon is famous for its exquisite beauty, diversity, glamour, European flavour, and hospitable people. Its rich culture and history have placed it on the “must see” on many a bucket list. Lebanese cities are among the most famous names in ancient history and majestic ruins still stand today as a testimony to the greatness of people who lived in this land. Archaeological sites are abundant in Lebanon; explore Crusader Castles, Phoenician temples, Roman theatres and even a royal necropolis.

Tempt those taste buds as you devour traditional local cuisine including the popular ‘Knefe’,’ Mankoushe’, ‘Baklava’ and range of traditional white & red wines. Learn the fascinating ancient history of Lebanon and witness the raw beauty of the countryside as you travel along the Mediterranean coast.  To visit Lebanon is to dispel preconceived notions that linger from a relatively short moment in a long, vivid, and fascinating history: the urbane vibe of revitalised Beirut, explore a diverse and beautiful landscape that lends itself easily to an unforgettable adventure, marvel at archaeological wonders, enjoy the welcome of a people who are naturally hospitable, friendly, and gregarious.

Lebanon, Byblos
Lebanon, Byblos

Morocco

Tourism in Morocco is well developed, with a strong tourist industry focused on the country’s coast, culture, and history. it is one of the most politically stable countries in North Africa which is one of the reasons this industry has flourished and is considered one of the main foreign exchange sources. Whether you have visited Morocco before or you are a first time traveller, this destination has a lot to offer any visitor. With a history as intricate and varied as Morocco’s, it goes without saying that over the years Morocco has developed a cultural offering that is both rich and exciting. It truly is an exotic getaway on Europe’s doorstep!

Our Secrets of Morocco is the perfect combination of ‘must see’ Morocco and the hidden local side to this fascinating country.

Our small group tours are created to inspire, educate and encourage travellers to understand responsible tourism by providing culturally immersive experiences, supporting local communities and projects. Make one of these experience’s yours – Contact us today!