Destinations: 2008’s Travel Hot Spots
by John Hawks

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Maldives: The smallest nation in Asia (with almost 1,200 coral islets scattered across the Indian Ocean) welcomes almost half a million tourists already each year. More Americans will discover this paradise as hotel chains like Regent build new resorts there. See www.visitmaldives.com.

Mauritius: Costa Cruises just picked this island off the coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean as its newest hub port. Its draws range from blinding-white sandy beaches to some of the world’s best deep-sea fishing. See www.mauritius.net.

Mozambique: Your clients eager to try new ecotourism destinations will appreciate this African nation’s focus on “fair trade” tourism – from reserves protecting endangered animals to lodges that dedicate a portion of their revenues to preserving local culture. (There’s no official tourism site yet, so you’ll need to Google for the best links.)

Quito (Ecuador): This sleepy corner of South America – mainly a jumping-off point for travelers to the Galapagos – is waking up. Ecuador’s colonial capital just completed a massive restoration of its historic city center, where you’ll find the most authentic Latin America atmosphere on the continent. It’s a good option for your clients who’ve been to Argentina and Brazil already. Start with www.vivecuador.com.

Puerto Plata: Construction continues at a breakneck pace on several new resorts in this beachfront playground on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Try recommending it for your clients seeking new all-inclusive stays, for example. See www.godominicanrepublic.com.

Roatan: Many agents know Roatan as an underdeveloped stop on some Caribbean cruise itineraries, but this Honduran region will soon boast new cruise terminals being built by Carnival and Royal Caribbean. See www.letsgohonduras.com.

Vietnam: This Southeast Asian country continues to welcome adventurous Americans searching for temple ruins, sampan rides, and historic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Trail. See www.vietnamtourism.com.

(Stock photos)