You’re in the final phase of revision before exams and the glorious release from academia. Soon it will be time for graduates to celebrate the successful completion of their degrees. In that spirit, online travel adviser Travel Ticker (www.travel-ticker.com) offers its top 10 graduate destinations. Reuters has not endorsed this list:
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is not only home to some of the best historic and artistic attractions, but it’s also one of the most fun and young European cities. This makes it a great destination for recent grads to experience a fantastic mix of culture and nightlife. Some notable attractions include the beautiful canals and Anne Frank House. Also, with welcoming locals and bicycle-friendly streets, it’s easy to seamlessly fit into Amsterdam.
2. Havana, Cuba
Explore Havana’s thrilling nightlife, lively culture and Cuba’s sunny beaches. With a tropical climate all year, travelers can expect great temperatures to follow them as they wander through the colorful streets, explore the beautiful colonial architecture and cathedrals, and enjoy exciting Cuban music all in sandals and shorts. But nothing says celebration like visiting one of Cuba’s famous cigar factories or treating yourself to dinner and a cabaret show at the original Tropicana Club.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Let’s be honest, the first thing many recent grads are hoping to do is to mark the occasion with a party, and nobody knows how to celebrate like the Irish. Dublin, one of Europe’s most youthful cities, is not only known for its abundance of pubs, but also for its locals who are famous for making any day a day to party. So with its beautiful green scenery, Dublin is a great city to raise a glass to your new degree.
4. Ibiza, Spain
As one of the party capitals of the world and Spain’s most stunning island retreat, Ibiza is known for its exotic nightclubs and warm, turquoise waters. This makes it a great getaway destination for grads looking for a young, hip crowd and lots of beach time. More importantly, starting right after graduation (in May) the island has its best summer weather with beautiful, clear, sunny skies. The summer months also attract some of the best DJs from all over the world.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
For recent graduates looking for a destination providing a more laidback experience, but still with the charm of old Europe and a young crowd, Prague is the place to be. The city, which is popular among many young backpackers, has plenty of gothic structures and winding streets to explore.
6. Paris, France
Those looking for a romantic vacation after graduation often look right at Paris. This city is always a favorite among graduates looking for that quintessential European experience. Filled with art, fashion, food and culture, the City of Light offers a broad range of experiences. Visitors can luxuriate in an afternoon at a Parisian cafe, visit the Eiffel Tower or pay their respects to Oscar Wilde at Pere-Lachaise cemetery.
7. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok’s tropical climate and truly exotic setting make it one of the world’s most traveled-to spots, and it’s surely on many graduates’ wish-lists. The city ignites the senses with its striking skyscrapers, delicious street foods and bustling tuk-tuck taxis zipping through traffic. Bangkok is also known for its all night Full Moon beach parties.
8. Rome, Italy
Warm, dry summer days, amazing food and colorful locals make Rome a fantastic post-graduation destination. Combining the old and new unlike any other destination can, this city encapsulates the history and culture of Italy, with sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi fountain and the Vatican. But more importantly, graduates can celebrate with the tastes of Italy by spoiling themselves with pasta, pizza and wine.
9. Bali, Indonesia
With over 17,500 islands, Indonesia is the perfect pick for graduates who’ve been cooped up in libraries for the last four years and are now ready to escape. One of the highlights of Indonesia is certainly Bali. The island also offers great waves and coral reefs for the more adventurous grads looking to surf, dive or snorkel.
10. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
For those who don’t follow the typical graduating schedule and happen to exit university in December, Dubai is a great destination to fly off to. It holds an extremely diverse set of activities that are sure to please even the most indecisive of recent grads. It’s the only place in the world where you can cool off at the Wild Wadi Waterpark and then bundle up for snow sports at the indoor Ski Dubai attraction.