Wondering where to go next year? Belgrade, Bristol, Utrecht, Cádiz

A slew of new destinations come recommended for travellers next year from Tajikistan to Namibia plus ultimate party playground Belgrade, by the Lonely Planet travel guide.

Ideas include Spain’s “fun-loving city of Cádiz” and the Italian island Sardinia which has “far more to offer than just breathtaking beaches.” There’s also Bristol, a “world of street art,” among the best places and experiences proposed for the year ahead.

European cities

“Explore the legendary nightlife” of Belgrade is the advice for travellers next year, with the Serbian capital nudging aside cities such as Berlin, famed in the past for its party scene.

“Cheap drinks, an uncomplicated atmosphere and locals who are passionate about nightlife make Belgrade the ultimate nightlife playground in Europe,” the guide says. “Few cities can match Belgrade’s night-time energy.”

Also in Europe, check out the Dutch city of Utrecht, a brief train ride from Amsterdam.

The city has a lot to offer: a medieval old town with canals, gabled houses like something out of a Vermeer painting and an abundance of bookshops, restaurants and museums.

Tips for foodies

For foodies, experiences include a cultural food tour in Old Dubai.

There’s also the option of Melbourne’s exciting gastronomic scene or a culinary tour in Kerala in southern India.

Rivers, hikes, camping

Further options include hiking and wild camping in Tajikistan, tracking desert elephants in Namibia, and a river cruise on the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Or consider the Japanese quarter of Liberdade in the Brazilian megacity of São Paulo.

And there’s Mexico City, a mosaic of pre-colonial traditions, fairytale murals and delicacies on every corner.

These recommendations were not given in a particular order, says Lonely Planet, noting not ranking top cities, regions and countries is a sign of the times.

Today’s travel culture says meaning and encounters are more important than rankings – all destinations are given equal status, the guide says.