New year new destination

Recent upheavals and turmoil have made some tourist spots less attractive - but others even more alluring

Where should you travel in 2017? Maybe you want to witness the US solar eclipse, take advantage of great exchange rates abroad or get in on the hoopla for big anniversaries in places like Alaska, Canada or Russia. Perhaps you're looking for a Zika-free beach or a destination unscathed by terrorism.

We look at events, trends and recommendations from travel agents, magazines, publishers and others, to compile this list of where to go in 2017.

Events and anniversaries

On Aug 21, a total eclipse of the sun lasting for more than 2 minutes will darken afternoon skies across a narrow strip of the United States stretching from South Carolina to Oregon. Nashville is one of the cities that will experience the phenomenon, along with a number of national parks. Hotels in many eclipse destinations are sold out.

In June, Bermuda hosts the America's Cup sailing race. Just don't think of Bermuda as the Caribbean. It's nearly 1,600 kilometers north of Puerto Rico and too chilly for ocean swimming in January. On the plus side, Bermuda is Zika-free, and its famous Hamilton Princess Hotel, aka the Pink Palace, is newly renovated.

Alaska celebrates the 150th anniversary of its transfer from Russia to the US in 2017, along with the centennial of Denali National Park..

Canada celebrates 150 years since its colonies were united under the Canadian Confederation, and Montreal marks its 375th anniversary.

Don't forget the country's national parks and wild places. The British Columbia archipelago Haida Gwaii was recently visited by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

In Russia, 2017 marks 100 years since the revolution that toppled the czar and led to the rise of communism. The date was once a major state holiday but today it's a divisive subject, no longer glorified as it once was.

Destinations darlings

As concerns about terrorism cast shadows over destinations like France and Turkey, other destinations are coming into the spotlight. Portugal is having a moment, turning up on lots of go-to lists. It's safe and affordable with great food, wine and soulful fado music.

The value of the British pound has weakened in the wake of the Brexit, making the United Kingdom look like a bargain for international travelers.

Last tango in Cuba? Some US passport-holders want to go now, afraid that President-elect Trump will restrict travel there. Others are postponing booking, waiting to see what happens.

Mexico remains a top destination, from cheap spring breaks in Cancun to cultural attractions in places like Oaxaca. But if you're avoiding Latin America and the Caribbean because of Zika, consider Hawaii or Greece.

Tourism to Japan is booming but it's not just Tokyo. Hokkaido, an island known for skiing, turned up on Afar and Lonely Planet lists.

Cape Town, South Africa, is being recommended by Fodor's, Travel + Leisure and Lonely Planet, with a spotlight on the opening of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in September. Exchange rates make it a bargain right now.

Theme parks

Guests visiting Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida can now meet Moana, star of the new Disney film.

But the biggest 2017 news from Disney parks is the summer opening of a new land at Animal Kingdom in Florida called Pandora The World of Avatar, inspired by the movie Avatar. Pandora will include a multisensory ride called Flight of Passage and a water ride.

Fans of the classic Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attraction at Disney California Adventure park can stop mourning its Jan 2 closing.

It will be replaced in summer by Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: Breakout! with freefall and other ride experiences.

Associated Press