The article and picks are interesting even if France doesn’t make this years list!

The Specialty Travel Agents Association (STAA) presents its top travel picks for 2010. These exciting destinations and niche markets may be just what you are looking for in the New Year and beyond. As the economy starts to move in the right direction, indications that tourism will follow are slow, but encouraging. Many travelers are still planning to get away so select your long time favorite or choose something different this year and then to turn this year’s vacation into a reality!

Vancouver

Situated along British Columbia’s coastline, Vancouver, is playing the congenial host of this year’s 2010 Winter Olympics and is also a new addition to our “Top Ten” destination list this year. For those going to the Olympics, there is plenty to see and do around Vancouver outside of the Olympics, and for those not attending, it will be a great place to visit when the games are over. Infrastructure improvements for the Olympic Games means that long after the medals are awarded, the area will be a great “host” to travelers. Residents and travelers alike enjoy Stanley Park, a downtown sanctuary that covers 1000 acres and offers activities like rollerblading, biking and hiking and the Vancouver Aquarium. At the edge of downtown Vancouver, Granville Island features a public market, quaint shops and art galleries, a theatre, restaurants, a brewery and hotel. In addition, Vancouver has plenty of access to its waterfront with 11 miles of beaches and the perfect playground for any couple or family. Canada’s currency exchange makes it an affordable destination for 2010.

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Ireland

Ireland is often a desired destination for folks who wish to trace their Irish roots, but it has a captivating fairy tale landscape that makes everyone want to BE Irish! Ireland makes it on our “Top Ten” list because it has it all…..beautiful lush countrysides, medieval castles, quaint pubs, traditional music, ancient and sacred sites, outdoor adventure sports and pretty much anything the traveler’s heart desires. Ireland has exciting music and dance festivals as well as a month full of celebrations dedicated to their patron saint, St. Patrick. Where else could you get a more authentic St. Patty’s Day tribute? Ireland also offers the perfect setting for both destination weddings and honeymoons. It’s hard not to find romance in the tranquil landscapes and quaint B & B’s. Ireland has plenty of affordable options for lodging and local fare, so there’s no reason to wait if your heart’s desire is to see and experience Ireland for yourself

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Adventure Travel

Adventure travel can be a dream come true for the diehard adventure enthusiast, but regardless of the level of adventure, age, physical ability, and interests, adventure travel has something for just about everyone. Some will delight in the exhilaration that zip lining over a jungle canopy will bring, or the challenge of free climbing a vertical rock face just for the fun of it. Others will enjoy the adrenaline rush that heliskiing in waist deep powder can give, but for the not so hardcore adventure seeker, soft adventure might be the right choice. Soft adventure travelers can make their way to South Africa to experience a safari first hand, bike through wine country in France or hike the Alps. Maybe a better fit for some would be a visit to the or any island destination to snorkel or dive, or even take time to visit a U.S. National Park and get back to nature while learning about these remarkable national treasures. No matter what the destination is, adventure travel is sure to provide an experience worth having!

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Brazil

The dollar’s declining value has certainly made travel to places like Europe and England much less affordable, but there are other options for the budget minded traveler. South America has had a resurgence in popularity largely due to its affordability. Brazil is the largest country in South America and offers a genuinely warm people, an interesting culture, fantastic beaches, the Amazon forest and interesting and exciting cities and nightlife. For these reasons, Brazil makes our “Top Ten” list this year. For the adventure traveler, kayaking, rafting, trekking, snorkeling and surfing are just a few ways to spend a sun-drenched afternoon in nearly any region in Brazil . For culture and entertainment, visiting during Rio’s “Carnival” would make anyone’s “bucket list”. Brazil has a lot to offer, including modern cities, fabulous cuisine and sundrenched beaches….what more could you ask for?

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Washington State

Washington State is an amazing destination for travelers and this year it makes the list as STAA’s top domestic pick. Cruisers can experience some of the most incredible coastal views of the Pacific Northwest as they make their way up the coast to Alaska, while others that follow the scenic drives through the North Cascade, Columbia River Gorge, Olympic Peninsula and Wine Country are treated to equally beautiful scenic treasures. Also known for its salmon streams, oyster beds, wine and culinary delights, plus an array of outdoor activities that will challenge even the most avid sportsman, fisherman, runner, or hiker. There will be plenty to see and do, so if you haven’t had a chance to travel to Washington, this year might be the year.

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Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in the group of islands known as French Polynesia and is located in the South Pacific. Unrivaled beautiful beaches and tranquil sunsets are reasons alone to make our “Top Ten” list for 2010. Though known as a fantastic honeymoon destination, Tahiti also offers families an exciting alternative to the usual vacation destinations. Granted, for some of us, getting there can be a bit daunting, but once you’ve arrived, you will soon forget everything you left behind. Amazing sugary sand beaches, breathtaking sunsets, a vibrant marine life, rugged mountains and rainforests make Tahiti a vacation paradise you will never forget.

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Egypt

Egypt is developing at a rapid pace to keep up with its expected tourism growth. What this means for tourists is more opportunities to really experience Egypt in a variety of ways and at an appealing cost. Traveling to Egypt and touring the traditional cultural and heritage sights is a must. Who doesn’t want to see the pyramids and temples of this ancient world or journey to the Sacred and Holy places that have such strong religious ties? However, Egypt has so much more and for the outdoor lover and adventure seeker they can enjoy scuba diving, do a little bird watching or set off on a desert safari. While those looking for health and relaxation, can add a weekend at a wellness spa on the Red Sea. This will rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit and give you a renewed sense of exploration to uncover the mysteries of Egypt.

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Italy

Italy stands the test of time with its popularity among travelers. Who can resist the wonderful culinary pleasures that Italian cuisine brings? Better yet, sampling their savory wines like Chianti and Prosecco is a great addition to any meal. With so many popular destinations to visit in one country, it will be difficult not to return again and again to take it all in. For a bit of romance try Venice with its picturesque waterways and canals or Florence for the art lover in all of us. Rome brings visitors for a religious connection at Vatican City and others to see the famous sites like the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps or the Roman Coliseum. During 2010, from April 10th through May 23rd, the Shroud of Turin will be on display in a rare exhibit. For those who love the coast, the only problem will be deciding between the Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast, and the Italian Riviera. All will afford some of the most amazing scenery you will ever experience. Put Italy on your list of “must see” countries….you won’t regret it.

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Cruising

Cruising is the perfect option for those who love to explore multiple ports of call and unpack only once. Cruise ships come in many varieties and sizes, from luxury cruising which brings pampering to a new level to river cruising that provides a smaller, slower, and more relaxed way to travel. Cruising has much to offer both onboard and off. Depending on your selected cruise and the destination there will be an array of shore excursions to choose from that will give you an opportunity to see and experience each port. Onboard there is much to do, with a selection of restaurants or food choices, nightlife and entertainment, pools, spas, and endless activities.

Once you have cruised it is easy to see why so many people cruise year after year. There is no time like the present to start, since this year Crystal Cruises celebrates their 20th Anniversary of luxury cruising and is giving us all something to celebrate with their anniversary savings and added shipboard credits. There are lots of cruises to choose from with some offering special cruises in honor of this anniversary year with special guests and events. Luxury has never been more affordable thanks to Crystal Cruises!

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Japan

Japan has long been a top pick for travelers wanting to visit the Orient, but there are new reasons to go if you’ve never been. The Japanese welcome travelers from around the globe to the many extraordinary places and events to there. M any people don’t realize that 80% of Japan is covered by mountain ranges. There are over 550 ski courses offering both snow skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts a spectacular “outside the box” winter sport experience. Visit Mt Fuji and stay at a traditional Japanese ryokan in nearby Shizuoka for that once in a lifetime travel experience. Of course, for big city neon, shopping and city life, one need look no farther than Tokyo . For a less frenetic pace, consider a visit to experience the art, culture and heritage of Kyoto. Japan simply has something for everyone, and that makes it one of our “Top Ten” destinations for 2010.

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