The 3 best places to travel every month of 2019

What we said: "Winter temperatures plunge below zero in Harbin, China's northernmost major city. But there's a reason more than 10 million travelers flock there each December, January, and February — the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival.

"The festival — the largest of its kind in the world — centers on a surreal, neon-lit theme park with castles, sculptures, and replicas of monuments like the Taj Mahal and the Sphinx, all carved from ice. It's a scene that needs to be witnessed to be believed — just make sure you bring your warmest jacket."

What we said: "Wanaka is a picturesque town on New Zealand's South Island, and it's the perfect place for outdoor adventure. The town's mountain and lakeside setting, as well as its proximity to Mt. Aspiring National Park, make it the ultimate base for outdoor activities like hiking, bicycling, rock climbing and skydiving. Remember, January means warm weather in this part of the world.

"Back in town, you can take in the magnificent scenery from viewpoints, go wine-tasting, and while away the hours at quirky places like Puzzling World and the National Transport and Toy Museum."

What we said: "Venice is a renowned vacation hotspot in the summer, but travelers say it's the winter months that showcase the charm, elegance, and serenity of Italy's Floating City.

"Unpredictable spells of rain often leave Venice's winding canals shrouded in mist, adding a layer of enchantment to the city's signature mode of transportation. Tourist attractions like Saint Mark's Basilica often sit "blissfully empty," as Fodor's Travel described. And even if it's below freezing outside, you can warm up with a hot cocoa at Caffè Florian, where the likes of Charles Dickens and Marcel Proust often visited.

"For a unique experience, time your visit to coincide with Venice's Carnevale, which fills the city with music, street performances, and ballgoers in dazzling costumes."

Note: Carnevale runs from February 16 to March 9, 2019.

What we said: "February seems like the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico's premier beach towns. The weather is perfect — mid-70s and 80s on average — and hordes of spring breakers have yet to descend, giving you a little more room to breathe than you'd get in March."

What we said: "Curaçao is a veritable gem of a winter vacation spot, and according to Lonely Planet, it's one of the most affordable Caribbean destinations.

"Apart from having some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, the island boasts a diverse history that is manifested in its music, food, and arts scene. Willemstad, the capital city, is filled with brightly-colored Dutch colonial buildings and has countless authentic restaurants and bars tucked along winding streets. The town's floating market is another favorite of locals and visitors alike."

What we said: "If you're looking for one of the best places to visit this winter that offers great weather, food, and entertainment, it's hard to beat New Orleans.

"Of course, the main draw for the Big Easy in February is its epic Mardi Gras celebrations. Often called "the greatest free show on Earth," Mardi Gras draws hundreds of thousands of visitors for days of parades and revelry. The biggest celebrations occur the weekend before Fat Tuesday itself.

"If big crowds aren't your thing, there are endless things to do in New Orleans. Bars and restaurants on Frenchman Street offer live jazz in a cozier setting, while Jackson Square provides for world-class people-watching. Be sure to grab a poboy and some beignets before you go."

Note: Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, March 5 in 2019.

What we said: "Mild weather and low rainfall make March the optimal time to visit this Caribbean gem with an affinity for rum.

"Indulge in the island's stunning tropical beaches, go whale-watching on the north shore, and be sure to check out historical sites like the Columbus Landing Site, the only known location where members of a Christopher Columbus expedition set foot on what is now US soil.

"And if you plan your trip right, you can take part in the raucous St. Patrick's Day parade in Christiansted — one of the only celebrations of the Irish holiday you'll find in all the Caribbean."

What we said: "The vibrant Hindu holiday of Holi begins on March 20 this year, and Mumbai is one of the best cities in India to celebrate it.

"The peak of the holiday is a free-for-all festival of colors, in which revelers take to the streets and hurl colored powder and spray colored water at one another, turning people into walking rainbow canvases."

What we said: "Hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to America's capital in April for the world-famous National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the blooming of the Japanese cherry trees the city received as a gift from Tokyo in 1912.

"Attendance at the festival, which lasts three weeks and features events like a kite-flying display, an all-day concert, and a parade, has topped 1.5 million in recent years.

"Apart from the festival, April is when Washington weather heats up to the low 70s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for an outdoor stroll around the National Mall or a free trip to a national park on April 20, the first day of National Parks Week."

What we said: "The Malaysian state of Penang is considered one of the best destinations for street food in Asia — and arguably the world.

"Walk through the capital of George Town and you'll pass hundreds of hawker stalls, food courts, and open-air markets brimming with Malaysia's signature blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Penang also has its own unique cuisine with staples like asam laksa, a bowl of silky rice noodles served in a sour, spicy, tamarind-based mackerel soup, and frequently topped with onion, pineapple, mint, ginger, and shrimp paste.

"Between meals, you can spend hours hours visiting Buddhist temples, trekking through the jungle, and discovering example after example of Penang's famous street art."

What we said: "April is a magical month in Japan's capital. For one thing, residents take cherry blossom season further than anyone else in the world, holding elaborate viewing parties to coincide with the blooming of the trees.

"You can also see the city decked out in fish-shaped windsocks called koinobori in preparation for the Children's Day holiday in early May.

"At night, soak in the frenetic energy of the city's nightlife, and if you're up for it, party long after the sun comes up the next day."

What we said: "May is the perfect time to visit the funky mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a crisp breath of fresh air from the rest of the South, whose heat and humidity will be ratcheting up by May.

"Asheville is a magnet for lovers of music, beer, and the great outdoors. Time your trip right and you'll catch the LEAF Festival for local and world music or the Montford Music and Arts Festival."

What we said: "May is considered one of the best times to visit Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to the wondrous Machu Picchu ruins.

"It's then that you'll get the optimal combination of pleasant weather and relatively sparse crowds on the trails and at the citadel itself. The city of Cusco itself is home to impressive colonial churches and the remains of other Incan sites, a distinction that led Lonely Planet to call the city 'the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas.'"

What we said: "The scenic, tranquil island of Bali offers travelers a transcendent experience you won't get anywhere else.

"Between peaceful Hindu temples, iconic views of sprawling rice terraces, and vibrant coral reefs along its sandy beaches, it's no surprise why Bali is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world. Travel in May to avoid monsoon season and enjoy close to 12 hours of sunshine — you're going to want to be outside as long as possible here."

What we said: "Summer solstice in Anchorage on June 21 is one event you do not want to miss.

"That's when residents of Alaska's biggest city celebrate the longest day of the year, and party with music, food, and entertainment underneath the midnight sun.

"Being the northernmost major city in the US, Anchorage allows a cool breath of fresh air for a summer vacation. You can expect temperatures to hover in the 50s and low 60s, which is close to as warm as it gets for most places in Alaska. You'll have more than 18 hours of sunlight a day, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the wildlife and picturesque scenery."

What we said: "Chilly Iceland is enjoying its moment in the sun as a tourism hotspot, and you should pounce on the opportunity to visit this summer.

"If Anchorage's midnight sun isn't extreme enough for you, then head to the Westfjords at Iceland's northwestern tip — you can expect a full 24 hours of sunlight on June 21.

"Regardless of what part of the country you're in, there are endless activities for you to do in June. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the best time of the year for whale and puffin sightings. Breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and hot pools provide a backdrop for all sorts of outdoors activities, from nature treks to picnics."

What we said: "The awe-inspiring Croatian town of Dubrovnik on the Adriatic sea is ideal for a June getaway. Steeped in history, Dubrovnik's old town offers enchanting walks along its limestone streets and ancient city walls.

"Temperatures climb up to the low 80s in June, and tourists can cool off with a swim at the Lokrum, a forested island right off the mainland."

What we said: "Don't have plans for the Fourth of July? Take a trip to Bristol, Rhode Island, to witness America's longest-running Independence Day celebration.

"The Fourth of July festivities in this small seaside town date back to 1785. And one month isn't enough to contain the party — it actually starts midway through June, and includes several nights of concerts, carnivals, dances, and other entertainment.

"Apart from the patriotic celebration, there are plenty of other activities to do in Bristol, including boating, bicycling, and indulging in some delicious New England seafood."

What we said: "The small town of Boquete in western Panama is an adventurer's paradise. Nestled in Panama's green highlands, Boquete is a popular destination for hiking, mountain climbing, zip-lining, rafting, and plenty of other activities.

"Bird lovers can try to spot the aptly named resplendent quetzal, considered "arguably the most stunning bird on Earth." The region is also famous for its coffee, and many coffee plantations offer tours for visitors.

"Expect a good amount of rain in July, like the other summer months, but not enough to deter you from the great outdoors."

What we said: "Athens in the summer is full of things to do for travelers: Its streets are bustling with energy, and its ancient sites provide visitors with a window into ancient civilization.

"The Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are just a few of the must-see wonders. And if you're discouraged by the throngs of tourists who descend on Athens each July, you can visit any of the numerous Greek islands that are within two hours of the capital."

What we said: "August is the perfect time to visit Mackinac Island, the scenic island between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas.

"On Mackinac Island — pronounced 'mackinaw'— visitors can enjoy the sunny weather while boating, fishing, and parasailing. On land, you can hop between historic sites like Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes, both key sites in the War of 1812.

"And sweet tooths will have something to celebrate too: the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival, which takes place every August and allows the many fudge shops on the island to show off their best work."

What we said: "There's never a bad time to visit Barcelona, but you can't beat summertime in Spain's vibrant cultural center.

"Use the warm weather to explore the city's maze of winding streets — you may get lost, but there's no better way to discover cafes, shops, and other gems. Take a stroll through Park Güell and admire the funky, colorful architecture, and enjoy some tapas and wine at your choice of rooftop bar.

"The urban Barceloneta beach can provide an unexpected getaway, and the medieval-style Sagrada Familia cathedral is a must-see to get a glimpse into the city's religious heritage. You could spend weeks in Barcelona — there's really something for everyone."

What we said: "Every year, one of the grandest spectacles in nature culminates in Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve — the Great Migration.

"The annual migration sees more than 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make the treacherous journey across the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. Along the way, predators such as lions and crocodiles lie in wait for the incoming herds, providing tense drama for intrepid sightseers and nature lovers.

"The migration typically reaches the national park in late July or August, so plan your safari in advance to ensure you get a good vantage point."

What we said: "September is the perfect month to visit the Grand Canyon, one of the America's most famous natural wonders. With summer vacationers and road-trippers out of the picture, you'll be competing with far fewer people for the best vantage points.

"On top of that, temperatures are much more comfortable this time of year. While summer temperatures at the bottom of the Grand Canyon often reach triple digits, in September they fall to the 80s and 90s, and even as cool as the high-60s at the top of the canyon. Meanwhile, if you visit the national park after autumn, many areas will be shut down until the weather heats up again."

What we said: "September might just be the best month to visit London, England. You'll save money on accommodations thanks to the end of the summer tourist rush, and the weather is slightly better than it is from March to May — the period typically considered shoulder season.

"Apart from traditional sights like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the London Eye, England's capital also offers some unique events in September, like the food-and-music-oriented Camberwell Fair and the London Fashion Week Festival. Check the calendar for the full slate of events."

What we said: "South Africa's Western Cape province has something for everyone, from rugged outdoor excursions to relaxing tours through wine country.

"Whale-watching season is in full swing in September, and Table Mountain offers adventure-seekers a chance to hike, mountain-bike, and rock-climb. If that's not enough, September brings the Cape Town Street Food Festival, where you can enjoy local favorites and sample world cuisine."

What we said: "If you're a beer lover, then your mecca for the month of October is Munich, Germany, home to the world's largest Oktoberfest celebration.

"Over the course of 16 days, visitors from all over the world drink 7 million liters of beer and revel in amusement park rides, games, and attractions. The event attracts millions of thirsty travelers, and should be on your radar for a European excursion."

Note: Oktoberfest runs from September 21 to October 6, 2019

What we said: "It's going to be hot no matter what time of year you visit Dubai, the glimmering capital of the United Arab Emirates. If you can tolerate it, we recommend visiting in October, when the mercury drops below triple digits, but a couple of months before the city becomes packed with tourists during the "cool" season.

"If stunning architecture is your thing, it's hard to beat the futuristic Dubai skyline, including the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. You can also indulge in some shopping at the world-famous Dubai Mall, cool off at at the Jumeirah beach, and get a taste of traditional culture at the Jumeirah Mosque and any of the city's outdoor gold and spice markets."

What we said: "Marrakesh, Morocco, is a place teeming with culture and life. It's home to beautiful mosques, palaces, and gardens, and visitors can get lost for hours in its sprawling bazaars, sampling the best of Moroccan cuisine along the way.

"Between wonders like the Bahia Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the Jemaa El-Fnaa market, it's no surprise that TripAdvisor users once ranked Marrakesh the number one travel destination in the world."

What we said: "The annual Loi Krathong lantern festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a sight to behold. The festival, celebrated on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, is marked by the release of thousands of lanterns into the night sky.

"Admiring the festival is far from the only thing to do in Chiang Mai. Between the elephant sanctuaries and the majestic temples around every corner, you can spend days and days exploring this spiritual haven."

Note: Loi Krathong begins Monday, November 11, 2019

What we said: "November is when Buenos Aires, the vibrant and electric capital of Argentina, comes to life. Temperatures creep up into the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, setting the perfect stage for outdoor market strolls, admiring the dazzling lights of Puerto Madero, and touring timeless sites like the Casa Rosada, where Eva Peron used to address the masses, and the Recoleta Cemetery, her final resting place.

"For some November-specific events, you won't want to miss only-in-Argentina classics like the cowboy-filled gaucho festival and the Argentina Open Polo Championship, once called the World Series for the sport of polo."

What we said: "November is one of the cheapest times of the year to fly to Hawaii (although February takes top honors in that department).

"Like the rest of Hawaii, Kauai's climate barely changes from month to month, with highs in the mid-70s Fahrenheit.

"What sets Kauai apart is its lush scenery and serene beauty. You won't find too many mega-resorts or throngs of tourists here, just stunning wildlife, friendly people, and good vibes."

What we said: "There's arguably no other city in the world that celebrates the holiday like Vienna, Austria.

"As temperatures drop to near-freezing, Vienna comes alive as its legendary Christmas markets take center stage. Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, angelic choir music, and spectacular sky-high Christmas trees set the scene for shoppers looking for unique holiday gifts. You can check out a guide to the best Vienna Christmas markets here.

"For lovers of the arts, splurge on tickets to "The Nutcracker" ballet performed at the Vienna State Opera. And all across the city, churches like St. Stephen's Cathedral and Malteserkirche play host to seasonal classical concerts that will get you in the Christmas spirit if you weren't already."

What we said: "December in Hong Kong means pleasant weather, clear skies, and lots of culture.

"Hong Kong Winterfest is the city's unique celebration of Christmas, when travelers marvel at spectacular light shows, breathtaking fireworks displays, and citywide special shopping and food-tasting opportunities.

"If you're around for New Year's, you'll want to head to Hong Kong Times Square to be in the heart of the festivities. Otherwise, the Tsim Sha Tsui district and Victoria Harbour are favorites for shopping and nightlife."

What we said: "The Australian island state of Tasmania beckons travelers from all over the world with its rugged beauty and charming culture.

"Adventure lovers who want to take advantage of the breezy summer weather will enjoy hikes to Montezuma Falls, Stanley Nut, and Mount Williams National Park, and while you're there, you can swim in the Bay of Fires, whose shores are marked by orange-hued granite rocks.

"If you travel at a slower speed, you'll want to see the Bridestowe Lavender Estates in full bloom, and you could spend days roaming the capital city of Hobart, home of the unusual Museum of Old and New Art and countless markets and restaurants offering scrumptious cuisine."