This year I’d like to travel to one of the most fashionable cities in the world, Paris, and get my hands on some vintage, timeless fashion pieces to feel like a true Parisian. A close second would be Tokyo, for its out-of-the-box fashion, its food and unique pop culture. I’ve heard it’s a shopper’s paradise. Also, I’d love to make the most of their local transportation system. – Qashish Dhiraj Mehta
We have Amsterdam, and, probably Belgium, as the first places on our bucket list, and, Delhi/Calcutta and Baroda as the second places. The first one, in our continuing quest to tour Europe and enjoy the tulip season in Amsterdam. Delhi to attend a wedding, and do some sight-seeing since it’s been nearly ten years since we went there. Baroda is our hometown. And, of course, even Dubai’s new attractions, including the Dubai Frame, Dubai Safari, et al are on the bucket list.
Lots to look forward to in 2018. I hope it’s the same for everyone, and everyone’s wishes come true. – Amit Loiwal
A visit to Japan is ideal when perennially caught up in a race against time and if you’re a student like me. Renowned for its fusion of ancient tradition and futuristic vision, Japan ensnares you into having a rare time – be it taking a reinvigorating bath at the local ‘onsen’, viewing the surreal cherry blossoms bloom, walking the streets of Kyoto in a ‘yukata’ or shopping in famous shopping hubs like Akihabara. Adding in a trip to Singapore and South Korea would make it the perfect Asian trip, and would definitely be out of this world! – Veda Manikonda
I consider myself fortunate enough to reside in a country that itself is a tourists’ paradise and is also well-connected to the entire world. Not only this, my beloved country provides us with ample opportunities to plan trips by announcing the holidays and long weekends in advance. In 2017, I got the opportunity to visit the lush green hilly traditional regions of Georgia and the spellbinding beaches of the Seychelles with my family during Eid holidays. This year I want to visit Singapore and Maldives.
Singapore has been a dream destination since childhood (inspired by the Hindi film song Jeewan Mein Ek Bar Ana Singapore, which means visit Singapore once in your lifetime for sure). My fascination towards it grew ever more when I found that Singapore is Dubai’s role model. I added Maldives to my travel bucket list this year for two reasons; firstly, I wanted to experience the unique adventure of a plane landing on water, secondly, learning that the rising water level in Indian Ocean might make the country disappear made me desperate to view it before any such disaster takes place, although I pray to protect it completely. – Arti Goel
My target destination will be New Zealand. One reason is that my son is pursuing a commercial flying license in the beautiful country, and second to recondition myself from the fast and hectic routine in Dubai. I would like to fly across the country and see sights including the picturesque Karangahake Gorge, and come back to the hustle and bustle of Dubai rejuvenated. – Kovid Ranjan
This year we are planning to visit Jaisalmer in India. From the rich culture to the finger-licking food, there’s nothing more we could expect. – Akshansh Sood
A short trip to Azerbaijan is definitely on my 2018 travel bucket list. There are several reasons. Firstly it is affordable. Secondly because of its proximity to UAE. It would take only 3 hours via flight to reach the destination from Dubai. And mainly Baku, the Azerbaijani capital, is such a beautiful place. I have never been to Baku, but I have read a feature about it in the pages of Friday magazine some time back. Ever since I have been wanting to visit Azerbaijan, which is also called ‘land of fire’. – Suni John
As a fan of Harry Potter, I want to watch the Cursed Child play in London’s West End. There is also a Harry Potter Museum in the beautiful city. – Saniya Udeshi
This year is very special for me. To start with Banaras Kashi Vishwanath temple in February and Mumbai in May. I am yet to plan for my anniversary but would love to head to Goa’s beaches. It is the year when my husband will celebrate his 50th birthday, my parents their 50th wedding anniversary and for me it is going to be our 25th wedding anniversary. – Priti Vyas
My 2018 travel bucket list is overflowing with exciting ideas, overwhelming plans and crazy activities. But definitely my longing is to visit the most sacred city in the universe, Shirdi in India, because I believe it’s a great abode of mental peace and well-being. – Vineetha Sasikant
Travelling is a way of enjoying yourself to the fullest, a relaxation of the mind and body, getting to know about different cultures and people and so much more. I have travelled across many cities in Asia, Africa and America, however, I have not been to anywhere in Europe and I would love to go there. While travelling, I not only try to capture all that I can while I am there but I also try to get to know the people around – their culture and way of living, so that I can understand them in a better way. This summer, I have decided to plan a trip to Europe. I have heard so much about the Acropolis and the different islands of Greece and this would definitely be on my list.
Another place that I would love to visit would be Italy, the birthplace of western culture. Every feature of the country from its heritage to cuisine is unique. Moving on, France would be the next place on my list, and if I do not get a chance to visit Germany, my trip would remain incomplete. Germany’s great history, its culture and strong education system are what attract me the most to it. I would want to observe the museums, schools and art galleries. This completes my list and plans for the coming summer. – Sadia Mohsin
