Next Destinations

Kuching, Malaysia

Malaysia is a fascinating country with a colorful mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous people.  In the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, you can go from the incredibly modern Twin Towers to the bustling Chinese markets of China Town, to the Malay markets of Kampung Baru in just a few minutes.  The contrasts couldn’t be more extreme.  Cities like Melaka and Georgetown are also destinations that shouldn’t be missed.  But Kuching, on the island of Borneo (East Malaysia), is a paradise for culture and the best base for adventure in the country.

Taoist Temple Roof

The old part of town is lined with Chinese shop houses, temples, and restaurants.  If you want to try the best Sarawak Laksa in town, a VERY good and spicy “noodle soup” of sorts, head down to James Brooke right off the Main Bazaar on the Sarawak river…and don’t forget to order a delicious glass of calamansi juice along with it!

Kuching Sunset

On the Main Bazaar you’ll find shop after shop selling goods made by the indigenous people of Borneo…the Iban, Bidayu, Orang Ulu, and others.  This one of the best places in Malaysia to find both “souvenirs” and high quality, authentic tribal art.  Past the Main Bazaar, you’ll come to India Street, a very colorful street with even more colorful drinks:

Drinks on India St.

At the end of India Street you’ll get your first glimpse of the beautiful Kuching Mosque:

Kuching Mosque

If you head out to the Sarawak river near the mosque, you’ll come upon the outdoor market selling everything from meat and fish to the infamous durian, king of the fruits.

Kuching Market

Where else can you see great markets, Chinese Temples, mosques, and incredible tribal art all in one place?  But that’s just the beginning of what Kuching has to offer.  On day trips from Kuching you can see Orang Utans in the wild and visit beautiful jungles by foot or kayak.

Batang Ai National Park

Bako National Park

If you’re ready for a serious adventure, you can also make a trip down rivers less traveled into the heart of Borneo.  Malaysia is a fantastic country, and Kuching might just be your best next destination…

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is considered to be one of the best in the world, if not the best, and getting tickets to a performance can be both difficult and expensive.  But each year the Vienna Philharmonic gives a free concert at Schoenbrunn, the imperial summer palace.  So if you’ve been unable to get a ticket, consider visiting Vienna when this terrific, free concert is held.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to Next Destinations, where you’ll find the best info on great destinations for your next trip.  We’ll feature tips and deals on well known destinations and lots of hidden gems that you won’t find anywhere else.  We’ll begin here with the incredible city of Dubrovnik and lesser known areas of the beautiful Croatian coast.

When many people plan a vacation to the Mediterranean, places like the French Riviera, the Isle of Capri, and the Amalfi Coast come to mind.  While these are certainly terrific destinations, you’ll find even more stunning scenery and fabulous cities in the Adriatic Sea, all along the Croatian coast.

Old Town Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the most well known Croatian city on the coast, and for good reason…it’s terrific!  In Dubrovnik you’ll find the charm and architecture of Venice, but with lower prices and without the massive crowds, for now.  Get there before everyone else does!

Stradun, Main Street

Dubrovnik is loaded with great restaurants, cafes, and shops.  You can spend hour after hour sitting at outdoor cafes, watching the people go by, or wander down the atmospheric side streets of the old town.  Day or night, there’s never a lack of places to sit and have a bite or a drink.

Side Street in Dubrovnik

In addition to Dubrovnik there are countless interesting towns, beautiful islands, stunning bays, and hidden beaches only accessible by boat, covering the Croatian coast.  If you’re looking for a quiet escape in a terrific location far less traveled by tourists, head just one hour north of Dubrovnik to the Peljesac peninsula.

Ston

The small towns of Ston and Mali Ston lie at the beginning of the Peljesac peninsula, with a wall reminiscent of the Great Wall of China connecting the two villages.

Mali Ston

The towns are known for their delicious oysters, and there are several great restaurants and hotels in both Ston and Mali Ston.  If you’re looking for a destination in an even more beautiful location, head 30 minutes further to the small town of Zuljana, located on a turquoise bay on the north side of the peninsula.

Zuljana, Croatia

You can find incredible deals on apartments in Zuljana, for a small fraction of what you’d pay in comparable locations in France, Spain, or Italy.  While there’s not much to do other than relax in Zuljana, you can rent a boat and explore the many hidden beaches to the north and south, only accessible by boat.

Hidden Beach, Peljesac

Another Hidden Beach

In addition to the great natural scenery and accommodations, Peljesac is famous for its wine and fruit.  You’ll find locals selling it in the town of Zuljana, and on vineyards throughout the peninsula.

Local Delights

Another great destination just a short drive from Zuljana and a quick ferry hop from Peljesac is Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo:

Korcula

Korcula is often called the “little Dubrovnik”, with its unbeatable location and atmospheric old town…full of restaurants, cafes, and great views of the Adriatic.

Entering the Old Town

Center of Korcula

So if you’re considering a trip to the Mediterranean, Croatia is a terrific choice that shouldn’t be overlooked!