We’re sure you’ll agree that every good trader deserves a holiday! With summer 2015 just around the corner, there’s no time like the present to start thinking about a well-earned summer break. In terms of holiday destinations, the world is quite literally your oyster so it’s understandable if you find yourself spoiled for choice. So why not do something different this year and make 2015 a year to remember? Throw away those beach towels, wave goodbye to sunburn and head off to one of these 5 ‘hidden secret’ destinations instead, as revealed by travel industry insiders. But if you want to avoid the masses, don’t tell anyone….shhhhh!
1. Tasmania, Australia
When you think of Tasmania, you might be hard pressed to conjure up any associations beyond the famed Tasmanian devil. But for travel connoisseurs, this uncommercialised, remote and unspoiled part of Australia makes it the Holy Grail. Travel gurus have discovered this tucked-away secret and have started to take advantage of this diverse destination, rich in breathtaking landscapes with a wonderful, home-grown food culture and wildlife adventures which rival the Galapagos. Hard-core travellers can tuck into the world’s freshest oysters, encounter platypus in the midst of darkness and follow the picturesque coastline in pursuit of wineries and whiskey distilleries. A new boat tour called the Tasmanian Seafood Seductions is also a ‘must-do’. We’re definitely seduced!
2. Medellín, Colombia 
Colombia’s second city Medellín may still have its vices, but what was regarded as the world’s former cocaine capital has been reincarnated. Terrorism has now given way to tourism, thanks to effective social policies which have transformed a once threatening city into a metropolis exemplified. Former slums are now linked to an innovative business and cultural hub, where visitors can descend on Barrio Santo Domingo, the latest tourist hot-spot and venture downtown where the sunlight sparkles on skyscrapers and avant-garde architecture surrounded by Andean mountains. With art-filled public parks lying at the heart of the city’s holistic makeover, including sculptures by native Medellín Fernando Botero stud Plaza Botero and the Parque Explora, with its interactive science exhibits and world-class aquarium, this has really become a place for culture-seeking, art-mad Medellinenses.
3. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town has been the flavour of the month for some time now as more travellers discover what industry-insiders have known for years about this spectacular, vibrant South African city. Cape Town is a place where you can find eye-catching mountainous scenery, wild and wonderful beaches and take the opportunity to get up close to stunning marine and wildlife. All this, together with its superior shopping, dining, nightlife and club scene, and it’s easy to understand why it features in many travellers’ top 5 lists of places to visit. In terms of exploring, the V&A Waterfront is a must see, as is taking a boat ride to see the famous Robben Island’s rich history. If you do decide to head to Cape Town, don’t miss taking a cable car ride up the spectacular Table Mountain or driving a rented sidecar. It’s one of the best ways to see Cape Town.
4. Milford Sound, New Zealand 
New Zealand has always been many a traveller’s favourite destination. After thirteen years and six films, Peter Jackson’s version of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings novels are now complete, so there’s no better time to go. Although some say that New Zealand may never be the same again now that filming is over, the hobbit-seeking masses may well be venturing elsewhere. Hence, now is the time to plan a trip to the Milford Sound area in the South Island, outside the adventure travel capital Queenstown. This is the place where outdoor lovers can go tramping along mountain faces, through dense, fern-green forests and past tumbling waterfalls such as the Routeburn Track, all locations which appeared in the films. A highly recommended destination for its outstanding scenery…and of course, die-hard Lord of the Rings fans!
5. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki has always been regarded as a poorer second cousin to the other Scandinavian countries and as a result, it usually gets overshadowed by Scandinavian cities Stockholm and Copenhagen. However, the Finnish capital is a very much underrated and a far more reasonably priced destination. From the outstanding Helsinki Cathedral to the Rock Church and the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, there’s certainly no shortage of striking architectural design. Travellers can start the day with the renowned Karelian pastries stuffed with a scrumptious rice pudding, ending it with a long drink, none other than the famous gin with grapefruit soda cocktail. This ever-popular, tangy cocktail gained notoriety after been specifically invented for the 1952 Summer Olympics and is so beloved by locals and visitors alike, it has never over-stayed its welcome!
