As 2015 draws to a close the HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts travel experts count down some of the best places to travel in the New Year, complete with suggestions of independent hotels in each area. From idyllic off-the-beaten track locations to timeless and bustling city breaks, here are 10 incredible places that warrant a visit in 2016.

1. Penang, Malaysia

The HotelREZ top destination for 2016 is the state of Penang in Malaysia. The region has a deserved reputation as a major foodie destination in Southeast Asia; with street food undoubtedly its main attraction, and the capital George Town at its core. In George Town, the perfect amalgamation of three distinct and ancient cultures (the Chinese forming the majority), means you'll find as much Chinese temples as you'll find mosques and Hindu temples. Mix these up with the romantically rundown Chinese shophouses, a burgeoning street art scene (pictured above), and a fair share of modern cafes and fun bars, and you have yourself a first-class city break!

WHERE TO STAY: Located in George Town, GLOW Penang is a hip budget hotel only a 10-minute walk from Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR). GLOW has a funky, colourful and contemporary environment with lots of in-room commodities from complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, to high pressure showers, in-room slippers and a mini-refrigerator with complimentary coffee, tea and water. Double room from £42 inc. breakfast for 2.

2. Israel

From the breath taking beauty of the Dead Sea, to the fertile valleys of Galilee, the Holy Land is bound to turn any trip into one special experience. Whether you're keen to explore Jerusalem's Temple Mount, containing some of the most revered sacred sites in the world (pictured above); or rather delve into Tel Aviv's cosmopolitan vibe and peruse around its many cafes, bars and beaches; one thing's for sure – you're in for a holiday of a lifetime.

WHERE TO STAY: Located in Tel Aviv, only a stone's throw from the beach, the independent Hotel Gilgal offers modern and brightly coloured rooms with free Wi-Fi and TV flat screens. Some offer balconies with a sea view. Double rooms from £93 inc. breakfast for 2.

3. London, England

Move over New York City, London is all set to be the next 'City that never sleeps' as the long awaited night tube finally kicks in, in the New Year. As the underground starts to run around the clock, 2016 is the time to see the English capital as you've never seen it before, i.e. from dusk 'til dawn. There are plenty of itineraries to enjoy a late-night wander around the capital, the Queen's Walk being one of the best. An official walking route to London, this circuit may be only a few miles long, but it will take you through some of the most iconic sights of the city. From Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament to St. Paul's Cathedral, London's landmarks look particularly dazzling when they're all lit up. For more travel tips to London, check these posts.

WHERE TO STAY: Just opened this December, The Nadler Victoria is a stylish and brand new 4 star hotel located at the heart of London's Victoria, a mere walk from the station. Offering beautifully designed rooms, free Wi-Fi and a practical in-room kitchenette in all rooms. Double room for 2 pax from £180.

4. Douro Wine Region, Portugal

With an impressive landscape, proclaimed UNESCO world heritage in 2001, the Douro wine region extends from the city of Oporto, in the North of Portugal, to the east. This is the land where the famous Port wine comes from and its unique scenery, sculpted by the Douro River and the many vineyards on its banks, is certainly a phenomenon worth experiencing. Authentic Port is made at dozens of estates or 'quintas', perched along the narrow river gorge, snaking hundreds of miles through the mountainous terrains of toppled granite, who act as a weather barrier for the terraces of vines. The Douro was also the first wine region demarcated in the world, back in 1756. 

WHERE TO STAY: We highly recommend the 5 star Douro Royal Valley Hotel. Standing at the gates of the Douro Valley, in the small village of Baiao, this beautiful property offers guests with splendid views and all the very best this region has to offer. Double room from £84 inc. breakfast for 2 and free Wi-Fi.

5. Dublin, Ireland

Home to Guinness, the Book of Kells, U2 and James Joyce (among other literary greats), Dublin has it all – and even more so in 2016, as the city prepares to celebrate the centenary of the Easter Rising. With the launch of an extensive programme of events, 2016 will bring about a massive commemoration, aimed to remember and honour those who took part and gave their lives in the rising, and centred in the city where it all took place, Dublin. Discover more travel tips to the Irish capital with the HotelREZ 48 hours in Dublin guide.

WHERE TO STAY: Aberdeen Lodge is a 4 star luxurious combination of Edwardian Grace, fine food and modern comforts; located in a quiet oasis in Ballsbridge, the most exclusive area of Dublin. Double Room from £70 inc. breakfast for 2 and free Wi-Fi.

6. Cyprus

According to a recent survey, the history-rich Cypriot resort of Paphos saw a 6% fall in local prices this year, making it our choice for best value destination in 2016. Complete with a fantastic climate, bubbling resorts and abundance of cultural attractions, Cyprus has plenty to offer holidaymakers of all ages – and all this without stretching your wallet too much. History enthusiasts can indulge their interest in exploring the magnificent Tomb of the Kings ancient burial site, in Paphos, or wander around Aphrodite's Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess.

WHERE TO STAY: Perfect for a family break, Daphne Hotel Apartments is conveniently located in the centre of Paphos, and only a 2 minutes walk from the seafront. A 2 bedroom apartment from £125 inc. Wi-Fi, a lounge with dining area, fully equipped kitchenette, satellite TV, hairdryer, telephone and air conditioning.

7. Stratford-upon-Avon, England

2016 will mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, so preparations are well under way to celebrate in the town where he was born and also died, Stratford-upon-Avon. Among the celebrations, the English town will host a range of new exhibitions to celebrate his legacy. These include the opening to the public of the Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall for the very first time, as well as a complete transformation to New Place – the site of Shakespeare's family home for the last 19 years of his life.

WHERE TO STAY: The Falcon Hotel comprises a quintessential 16th century residence featuring decorative half-timbering and original slanted windows totally encapsulating Tudor charm whilst harmonising with the contemporary, bedrooms and stunning reception areas. Double Room from £75 inc. free parking.

8. Cape Peninsula, South Africa

Filled with great sights, good weather, a rich history and of course plenty of wildlife, Cape Town and its surroundings make for a pretty special travel experience. Ranked as the third largest city in the whole of South Africa, and often dubbed as the Mother City, this is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. Outside the city, you can indulge in the delights of wine tasting along the historic estates of the Cape Winelands such as nearby Constantia or, further afield, Stellensbosch. The latter is home to some of the best kept examples of Cape Dutch architecture. For more great tips download the HotelREZ mini travel guide to the Western Cape, South Africa.

WHERE TO STAY: Built in 1713, the 5 stars Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel was one of the first grand residences in the heart of historic Stellenbosch, and is now surrounded by many stylish shops, galleries and museums. Marvel at the beautifully restored Manor House with its wooden doors, sash windows and yellow wood ceilings. Classic Double Room from £110 room only.

9. Berlin, Germany

Situated at the very heart of Europe, Germany offers plenty of tourist attractions and unique and historical sights to warrant a visit in the New Year. There are plenty of places for a great city break, but hardly another compares to the vibrant capital, Berlin. With its vibrant culture and bon-vivant vibe, cutting-edge architecture, intense party scene and tangible history, Berlin will surprise you. Unmissable attractions here include Bradenburg Gate, the Reichstag (home to the German parliament), Checkpoint Charlie and the Holocaust Memorial.

WHERE TO STAY: The Quentin Boutique Hotel has spacious air conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. The hotel's public areas feature stylish lobbies and a library designed by the famous Studio Mode. Double Room from £50 room only.

10. Athens, Greece

Tradition and modernity are never far apart when it comes to the Greek Capital. From the timeless Parthenon which rises beautifully out of the ancient hilltop citadel, to the adjacent Acropolis Museum, one of the most contemporary looking buildings in the city; Athens' offers plenty of exciting wonders. Wander through the old Plaka neighbourhood, at the core of the historic centre, and walk through its narrow labyrinth-like streets; shop around the fashionable shops of Kolonaki; and go bar - or should we say 'taverna'-hoping, around the Psiri district, a traditional neighbourhood, but which during the past few years has evolved into one of the most important hubs for the city's nightlife. For other travel destinations in Greece check out HotelREZ's top 10 destinations in Greece.

WHERE TO STAY: Piraeus Theoxenia is a new landmark building and the only 5 star deluxe hotel in the Port of Piraeus, Athens. Set on a prestigious block outside the city centre, the business district of Piraeus is home to the biggest port of Greece and the gateway to the Greek Islands. Double Room from £51 inc. breakfast for 2 and free Wi-Fi.

Please Note:

This was post was originally published on the HotelREZ Travel Blog. For more travel tips and ideas on independent hotels worldwide please visit https://blog.hotelrez.co.uk

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