Top places to visit in 2012 by Carmine Barbetta (FB)

Published: 01/30/12 in Travel Promotions

Visiting other parts of the world can be an adventure. Different cultures and lifestyles allow travelers to learn about new areas. Sometimes the hardest part about a vacation is deciding where to go. There are many locations to choose from, but how do you choose? As with any situation, it's important to do the proper amount of research before making a decision.

London, England
The Summer Olympics will take place in London this year from July 27 to August 12. Over 300 events will be held for the Olympics at different venues all over the city. While this location is known for its gloomy and overcast weather, the summer is one of the most popular times to take a trip to London, especially if you've always wanted to see the Olympics. The city is one of the top travel destinations for travelers because it has many things for people to do.

A visit to the London Eye is a popular outing for tourists. The large ferris wheel offers a beautiful view of the city - if the weather isn't too overcast. From the famous double-decker buses to the unique black cabs, some would say this city has it all. Take a cruise on the Thames River to see the London Bridge and the sites of the area from a different location. With a visit to this country, travelers won't have to worry about language barriers. To save money on your flight purchase, use a promotion code from Airfare.com. You can save up to 70 percent on major airlines.

Florence, Italy
Appreciate the historic atmosphere of Italian culture and cuisine in this beautiful city. Full of beautiful art and over 80 museums, travelers will never be short of things to do when they visit. Making the list of the New York Times Places to Visit in 2012, Florence is a destination worth visiting. The summer months tend to be hot and humid, but winter is often cooler and more comfortable for visitors.

The Duomo, the world's fourth-largest cathedral, according to Lonely Planet, is a popular destination for travelers. The vast and beautiful space is home to many masterpieces. One of the most popular activities for tourists is Galleria degli Uffizi. The museum is the houses some of the world's finest Renaissance art. If you're interested in traveling to other parts of Italy during your stay, consider using an ACP Rail International promotion code - you can save money on railway travel.

The Algarve, Portugal
Lisbon isn't the only location in Portugal worth visiting. On Portugal's southern coast, the Algarve offers sandy beaches and beautiful waters for travelers. Located in the Algarve, Lagos is a popular destination for both young and old travelers. Whether you want to relax on the beach or take a cruise on the water - this place has it all.

The area is adding luxury hotels and is giving tourists a more cultural experience. Surrounded with coves and grottoes, the area offers scenery that is unmatchable. Boat trips and cruises are available for tourists to observe dolphins or get a better look at the coves. Topping the New York Times list of The 45 Places to Go in 2012, consider a trip to the shores of Portugal.

Paris, France
The city of Paris is said to be one of the most romantic places in the world to visit. It offers culture, art and beauty for travelers. As one of the most popular travel destinations, it's definitely a city worth visiting. The Louvre has a massive collection of art, exhibits and artifacts. The famous Mona Lisa is one of the paintings housed in the gigantic museum. Notre Dame is another important landmark [one word] to visit on a Paris getaway. Climb to the top of the cathedral and see the views of the city from the building. Use an AllHotels Promotion Code to save money on your getaway.

A trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Whether you decide to take a trip to the top of the tower or appreciate the scenery from the bottom of the building it is a beatiful sight worth seeing. Many people choose to have a picnic in the park with some brie and French bread - what better way to appreciate the visit?

Guatemala
Home to the ruins of the Mayan cities, the ancient pyramids in Guatemala are worth a visit. Chichistenango is one of the most popular destinations in the country according to The National Geographic. The small town is about three hours from Guatemala City and is rife with culture and traditions. About 95 percent of the population is indigenous, reports the source. From traditional markets to beautiful mountainous regions - there is something for every type of traveler.

Spain
The people of this country certainly know how to throw a fiesta. The country has many different autonomous communities that offer a little something different for every kind of traveler. Take a trip to Spain and you can experience the shores of the southern cities. Sevilla is a popular location for visitors. The southerners of the country tend to be friendly and welcoming to travelers. They have a laid-back lifestyle that might be ideal for vacationers. To save money on your stay in Spain, use an Autograph Collection promotion code.

For travelers looking for a little more action - the hustle and bustle of the capital Madrid might be more appealing. Visit the Prado Museum to observe some of the most beautiful works of art or take a trip to the Plaza Mayor to see the beautiful square. The capital of the country offers a little something for everyone.

A trip to Barcelona will allow you to see the Catalonia lifestyle and appreciate the architecture of the famous Gaudi.

Greece
This beautiful country offers something for everyone, from the historical parts of Athens to the lively nightlife on other islands. The ancient Acropolis is a huge part of Athens and is located near the center of the city. For travelers interested in the culture and history of the country, this is a landmark worth visiting. Go island-hopping to experience all of the different aspects of the country.

Santorini is a popular destination for travelers. The area has multicolored cliffs and is famous for the breathtaking sunsets, according to Lonely Planet.

New Zealand
Though it might be a long trip - many would say it's well worth the journey. The warmer months are from November to April, and from December to February is when the locals have a number of food and wine festivals. A visit to this country could involve relaxing on the beach or adventuring to the beautiful parks.

Iceland
Don't let the name of this country scare you - it has an overwhelming amount of beauty. With hot springs, volcanoes and icecaps there is always something worth observing in this country. Rated one of the best trips to take in 2012 by National Geographic, you certainly want to add this location to your list of places to see. The country is a lot more affordable for travelers and the currency is similar to the rate of the euro. Experience the unique language and cuisine in this Northern location. Save money on your flight purchase with a Delta Airline promotion code.

Glasglow, Scotland
Another one of the countries to make the New York Times 45 Places to Go in 2012, is the biggest city in Scotland. The architecture began with a Victorian style, but it's transforming into cutting-edge and modern buildings. Visitors can observe Glasglow's maritime history along the waterfront of the River Clyde. Experience the music scene and lively lifestyles with a visit to this area.

Maldives
Everyone has a different idea of what paradise means, but many would have a hard time arguing that this destination is anything other than paradise. Honeymooners or families can equally enjoy this beach vacation. Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives began as coral reefs that rose along volcanoes, according to Lonely Planet. If you're looking for a relaxing destination with beautiful beaches and blue waters - this might be the place for you. The area is also becoming popular with surfers, reports the New York Times.

"Good, consistent waves, warm water, a wide choice of five-star resorts and plenty of things to do for the partners who don't surf," Ross Phillips, founder of Tropicsurf, told the news source.

Use a One Travel Promotion Code to take a trip to paradise in 2012. 

Traveling can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences. With the right preparations and promotion codes, you could make the trip of your dreams a reality.

Previous: Shoe trends for 2012 Next: Protecting your smile