Top New Travel Openings in 2018: Must-See Experiences for Global Adventurers
Have you explored every corner of the globe? Revitalize your travel bucket list with these exceptional new openings and immersive experiences launching in 2018.
Ninja Experiences, Japan
Japan is revitalizing the ancient ninja tradition in 2018 with diverse activities. Travelers can join specialized ninja tours, staying in historic sites like Iga Province—home to sacred ninja grounds and prestigious schools. Tokyo will unveil a new Ninja Museum and Ninja Academy, offering training supervised by Jinichi Kawakami, the 'last ninja.' Master all levels to earn official ninja certification.
The Japan Ninja Council leads this revival, with updates at ninja-official.com.
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, The Bahamas
An former industrial site is transforming into a vibrant marine reserve and private island. MSC Cruises guests will explore sandy beaches, serene lagoons, tiki bars, and family zones. The project boosts coral growth, marine life, and features over 80 native plants on the restored island.
Opening to cruise guests from November 2018; discover voyages at msccruises.com.
L’Atelier des Lumières, Paris, France
Paris's storied art scene gains a modern twist with L’Atelier des Lumières. This immersive venue will host annual major exhibitions digitally reimagining masterpieces by art history's giants, plus contemporary shows. Spanning 2,000 sq m in a renovated 19th-century factory, 8m-high projections envelop the walls.
Opening April 2018 at 38/40 rue Saint-Maur; track progress at atelier-lumieres.com.
Titanic Wreck Dives, Newfoundland, Canada
Thrill-seekers can dive to the RMS Titanic on an exclusive eight-day expedition from Newfoundland. With Blue Marble Private and expert crew, descend nearly 4,000m in a submersible to see iconic features like the grand staircase. Limited spots make this one of the world's rarest adventures.
Dives run 2018-2019; reserve at bluemarbleprivate.com.
Direct Flights from Argentina to Antarctica
Starting January 2018, Argentina's LADE airline offers regular commercial flights to Antarctica from Ushuaia—90 minutes to Marambio Base. Bypassing cruises, the site will expand for tourists with accommodations and commercial facilities, supporting scientific research.
Weekly flights begin January 2018; check LADE’s website for details.
Vessel, New York City, USA
New York City's Hudson Yards gains an iconic climbable structure: Vessel. This copper-shingled centerpiece features 154 interconnecting staircases rising 45m, offering varied views of the revitalized Far West Side from a mile-long path network.
Vessel opens to the public in autumn 2018.
Science Gallery, London, UK & Detroit, USA
Building on Dublin's success since 2008, the Science Gallery expands with a permanent London site near London Bridge and a three-year Detroit project at Michigan State University. Expect interactive exhibitions tackling big questions, contributing to research.
London opens 2018, free entry; details at london.sciencegallery.com.
Direct Flights from Australia to Europe
Qantas launches the first nonstop Australia-Europe route: Perth to London in 17 hours aboard the Dreamliner 787, minimizing turbulence and enhancing comfort. Ideal for discovering Perth.
First flight March 2018; book at qantas.com.
Ulysses Centre, Dublin, Ireland
In historic Newman House, the Ulysses Centre celebrates Ireland's literary legacy, focusing on James Joyce with immersive exhibits, plus rotating shows on modern figures, lectures, and performances.
Opening autumn 2018 in Georgian Dublin.
August Moon Drive-In, Nashville, USA
Step back to the 1960s at this 4,180 sq m indoor venue recreating a starry summer night. Watch films from vintage cars on North America's largest non-IMAX screen, enhanced by cutting-edge tech and live actors.
Opening spring 2018 in East Nashville; updates at augustmoondrivein.com.
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