My Top 10 Travel Wishlist Destinations for 2016
As 2015 draws to a close, reflecting on my year's adventures inspires my 2016 travel plans. A friend and I had hoped to journey together this year, but schedules shifted. Now, discussing next year's trips, she asked for my top five destinations—sparking this comprehensive wishlist. Which spots excite you most? Share your thoughts and your own wishlist in the comments. 
1. Colombia
I'm kicking off with Colombia, my next month's adventure—a dream delayed five years since my 2010 Latin America trip stalled at the Darien Gap. Starting fresh in South America from Peru, I'm thrilled to finally explore. Highlights: the Caribbean coast, Cartagena's colorful colonial streets, and the 5-day Ciudad Perdida trek through jungle to an ancient lost city.
2. Vietnam
Incredibly, I spent nearly 10 months in Southeast Asia without visiting Vietnam—a gap I must fill. Rave reviews, my obsession with Vietnamese cuisine, Halong Bay's limestone cliffs, Mui Ne's white sand dunes, Sapa's mountain treks, bustling markets, and 2,000+ miles of beaches await. 
3. South Africa
South Africa leaped onto my radar via travel bloggers' stunning Garden Route photos along the southeastern coast. Friends rave about Cape Town as a world favorite, and Kruger National Park safaris call to me.
4. Morocco
Morocco captivated me 20 years ago via Hideous Kinky. Dreams include Marrakesh by train, Sahara camping, Atlas Mountains road trips, and Chefchaouen's blue streets (see this CNN photo essay).
5. The Baltics
Inspired by Instagram from fellow travelers, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia boast photogenic medieval capitals with historic buildings and cobblestone streets—still budget-friendly off the main European tourist path.
6. Northern India
My 2012 India trip stopped at Goa; northern gems like Rajasthan's deserts, Jaisalmer's Golden City, Varanasi's Ghats, Darjeeling's tea hills, Himalayan peaks, Jaipur, and the Taj Mahal demand a return. 
7. Nepal
Canceled last month, but the Annapurna Circuit trek (see Washington Post photos)—echoing my 2014 Peru Andes hike—tops my list for 2016 highlights.
8. Myanmar
Long on my list, swapped for Philippines this year (no regrets!). Yangon's Shwedagon Paya, Bagan's ancient city, Inle Lake, and vibrant markets beckon. 
9. Cuba
Nearly visited in 2010 from Cancun, but U.S. travel restrictions derailed it. Havana's time capsule, Trinidad's colonial charm, and Caribbean beaches are imminent.
10. Mongolia
Mongolia's nomadic yurt life, vast steppes, mountains, and endless skies fascinate. Not ideal solo, but my friend shares the dream for an epic adventure. 
Your turn: What's on your 2016 travel wishlist?
