With so many postcard perfect and culturally interesting places in this world, choosing your next vacation destination should be a cinch, right? But if you’re like many, there are more places on the wish list than vacation days, so tough choices have to be made. To help you decide, here’s a short list of seven top destinations for 2016 and why this year is the time to go there.

Greece

Greece is a perennially popular vacation destination with 3,500 years of history that gave birth to the concepts of democracy and philosophy, the Olympic Games, and drama. From whitewashed homes and blue-domed churches to crumbling archeological sites and treasures, the landscapes are picturesque, while the spotless sands and clear blue waters are no less striking. Greek cuisine rewards even the most demanding visitors and definitely those who appreciate simple and good quality food.

Why 2016: The euro continues to be at historical lows, allowing the U.S. dollar go much farther than it has in 20 years. In addition, Greece is emerging from a recession and financial crisis, so prices are lower making Greece an excellent value.

Portugal

Portugal has it all: sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve, exclusive golf resorts, medieval hilltop towns, colorful fishing villages, a cosmopolitan capital, and wild remote mountains. The vine-filled valley of the Douro is Portugal’s renowned winemaking region, a must see for wine enthusiasts. Some favorite ways to experience Portugal are by tasting its excellent cuisine, listening to the traditional fado music, or simply watching the world go by while sipping a glass of port at a street café.

Why 2016: Porto, which although it’s Portugal’s second largest city, has stayed largely under the tourists’ radar and offers an old world charm without crowds.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – sensuous, chaotic, sophisticated, open and friendly – is one of South America’s gems. In the Cidade Marvilhosa (Marvelous City), as Brazilians call it, must-dos include riding the funicular up Corcovado Mountain to the base of the landmark Christ the Redeemer statue and a trip to the legendary Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Carnival in Rio (February 5 – 10, 2016) is one of the most famous parties in the world, but you’ll find tournaments for the national pastime of soccer played year round.

Why 2016: Rio is hosting the 2016 Summer Olympics, which is a first for any South American city. The games run August 5 – 21 and the Paralympics run September 7 – 18.

Asheville, North Carolina

If you want to get away closer to home, Asheville, North Carolina is one of the hottest and coolest places east of the Mississippi. Hot because it is infinitely hip with a burgeoning food and craft beer scene, a vibrant arts movement and a truly diverse population. Cool because the number of attractions is astounding: the Biltmore Estate, the River Arts District, the pristine natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a hospitable climate.

Why 2016: Asheville is a small mountain town that despite the constant flow of tourist – from young professionals to retirees, hippies to mountain folk – the town keeps its artsy, friendly, eclectic vibe intact.

Cuba

The Caribbean island of Cuba, just 90 miles from the U.S., has been off limits to Americans for 50 years, but travel options are finally opening up. U.S. citizens must still join a sanctioned “people-to-people” cultural tour or meet certain professional qualifications to travel there; however, when they do, a rich cultural heritage of art, music and architecture awaits.

Why 2016: Because you can! The influx of American tourism will undoubtedly impact the stuck-in-time feel of today’s Cuba. Some changes will be beneficial, but the country will certainly be different as time and tourists pass by.

New Zealand

Between the two islands of New Zealand you’ll find some of the most varied terrain in the world – from glaciers, fjords and beaches to mountains, meadows and rain forests. The scenery is spectacular and the adventure options are breathtaking – literally. In New Zealand you can bungee jump off cliffs, paddle through white water rapids, rocket through narrow canyons in a jet boat, or roll down a hill inside a giant plastic ball!

Why 2016: The strong U.S. dollar makes hotels, food and activities cost from 20% to 40% less than the same purchases did over the past five years. Besides, New Zealand is splendid.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city of contrast where east meets west. A cosmopolitan, high-tech veneer lays over an ancient Chinese culture. High above the city is Victoria Peak, home to the super-rich. The city spills down the mountain with a profusion of high-rises, alleyways and tenements with colorful balcony gardens, to the harbor where fishing families live on their boats. Must see sights include the nightly “Symphony of Lights” show viewed from atop Victoria Peak, Kam Tin Walled Village on the mainland and the Po Lin Monastery’s Big Buddha on Lantau Island.

Why 2016: A vibrant cultural scene, trendy nightlife, world-class shopping, and bamboo steamer baskets full of delicious dim sum.

These seven top destinations for 2016 are just the tip of the global travel iceberg. For more help choosing and planning your 2016 vacation, please contact the knowledgeable vacation advisors at Covington Travel.