2017 has been a pretty tough year... but 2018 is already being touted as a year full of promise. Particularly with SpaceX lining up its first two space tourists to travel to the moon. If you’re a billionaire, please call Elon Musk and let him know you want to go too. But for the rest of us, let’s make the most of 2018 on Earth. Here are 5 of our top holiday destinations for that ideal break in 2018.

Shoestring destinations

For those of you who prefer to travel in short bursts, or need a more ‘affordable’ break whilst you are saving for something important... we have some locations for you which shouldn’t break the bank!

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Home of Game of Thrones and plenty of sunshine, you can go for a weekend break or stay a bit longer and explore the coast. Dubrovnik’s city walls are brilliant for history fans or GoT fans alike, and the sunny south coast of Croatia is lovely even late in the year. Lots of low-cost airlines fly here, and you can find Air BnBs or hostels if you want to stay there on a budget.

2. Malta

A tiny island in the Mediterranean near Sicily and the north coast of Africa. Valetta is home to a surprisingly vibrant night and club-life, with various festivals being hosted there. The main city of Valetta is diverse and interesting and they specialise in Mediterranean food (rather than British!)

To the north of the island is Mellieha bay, the only sandy beaches in Malta, but the weather is great and flights are easily found from various airports. If you rent a car you can get around the island easily, and nearly everyone speaks English due to its English heritage. Well worth a visit.

3. Bali

From breathtaking beaches to lush jungles, Bali is an awesome place to go for both a party break and a zen retreat. The trick to getting a great deal? Be brave and book excursions, drivers, boats, massages and hostels when you get there - the locals will give you the best price. Most backpackers head to Kuta or Ubud, but it’s so cheap to travel around the (surprisingly!) small island you could see the less touristy areas, too.

The shoestring must-dos include local waterfall hikes, surfing on Kuta beach, stunning temples, the Monkey forest in Ubud and all the incredible Indonesian food. Plus, head to the famed island of Gili T to party hard in paradise.

Full luxury

If you have been saving and want to splash out a bit on some luxury, we've got one winter and one warm destination that we think you’ll love.

4. Val D’Isere - France

Regarded as one of the best ‘party’ ski resorts. Val D’Isere is a mix of luxury chalets, hotels and parties, with great slopes, big club nights on resort in high season and the ultimate in ski and snowboard fashion. Expect French beers, cheese raclette, wine on the slopes and Folie Douche parties to keep you entertained all week long!

5. Mauritius

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is an island paradise where you can snorkel, dive, sail, and relax in the crystal blue waters. Hugely popular with honeymooners, Mauritius is decadent and with the sea villas available, you can have your own slice of paradise. You can explore the island in a relatively short time. But the wildlife is incredible, and if you want a place to really escape from reality, there is almost nowhere better on the planet.

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