Top 5 destinations to explore in May 2019

As temperatures rise across the Northern Hemisphere in May, so do the travel opportunities.

For those in the US, early to mid-May offers the final chance to book discounted rates before Memorial Day (May 27, 2019), which kicks off the busy summer travel season.

Julie Hall, spokesperson for AAA, notes that in the United States, most people traditionally drive to their vacation destinations.

If you plan to hit the road over Memorial Day weekend, Hall suggests, 'Try traveling on the holiday itself, as there tend to be fewer crowds and less congestion.'

With that in mind, here are five top destinations to visit in May, both within the United States and internationally:

Memphis, Tennessee

“They’ve got catfish on the table. They’ve got gospel in the air. And Reverend Green be glad to see you. When you haven’t got a prayer. But, boy, you’ve got a prayer in Memphis.”

Memphis, immortalized in song by Marc Cohn and many others, and a major contributor to America's 20th-century musical legacy, offers a journey to the heart and soul of American music and culture.

May is the perfect time to visit Tennessee’s second-largest city. While temperatures will be warm, especially as Memorial Day approaches, you'll avoid the intense heat and humidity typical of a Lower Mississippi River summer.

The city goes all out for its month-long Memphis in May celebration, a vibrant event full of music, food, sports, and culture. Highlights for 2019 include the Beale Street Music Festival (May 3-5), the BBQ contest (May 15-18), a river run (May 25), and screenings of films set in Memphis (at various times). For festival inquiries: 56 South Front Street, Memphis 38103. Phone: + 1 901 525 4611)

Most people are familiar with Memphis’s famous spots: Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home, Beale Street, the heart of the blues, and the Peabody Hotel with its famous daily duck parade. However, Hall recommends exploring some lesser-known gems:

– Sun Studio: Try your hand at recording at Sun Studio, the legendary birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. It’s where a young Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash recorded their breakthrough hits. (706 Union Avenue, Memphis 38103. Phone: +1 901- 521-0664)

– Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Discover the rich history of soul music at the original Stax Records site, where you can view Isaac Hayes' iconic blue '72 Cadillac, Ike Turner’s signature Fender guitar, and a century-old church from the Mississippi Delta. (926 East McLemore Avenue Memphis, 38106. Phone: +1 901-942-7685)

– Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: Explore stunning artworks, from Italian Renaissance paintings to British portraits. The museum, housed in a 1916 Beaux Arts building in Overton Park, is a masterpiece in itself. (1934 Poplar Avenue Memphis, 38104. Phone: +1 901-544-6200)

If you're visiting during an early heatwave or just craving something sweet, Jerry’s Sno Cones is a local favorite, often with long lines. (1657 Wells Station Road Memphis, 38108. Phone: +1 901-767-2659)

Take time to visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically assassinated in 1968. This museum offers an important look at American history. (450 Mulberry Street Memphis, 38103. Phone: +1 901-521-9699)

Bali, Indonesia

Bali truly embodies the ideal tropical paradise in Asia, and for good reason. Part of Indonesia’s many islands, Bali sits right on the equator, resulting in consistently warm temperatures year-round. The biggest temperature differences come from the island’s elevation—head into the mountains for cooler weather.

The beauty of visiting Bali in May: it’s the dry season and also a sweet spot between the Easter rush and the summer crowds. This means you're less likely to experience rain, and you can snag some great deals.

When you think of Bali, the first image that comes to mind is usually its stunning beaches. Here are a few of Bali's best beaches:

– Amed Beach: Located on the island's eastern shore, this spot is a diver’s paradise, with vibrant coral reefs and intriguing shipwrecks.

– Karma Beach: Accessible by funicular, this exclusive beach offers unique experiences like paddle yoga or even a relaxing massage right by the shore.

– Sanur Beach: Sanur is home to a range of beachfront resorts, yet it has managed to retain the charming feel of a small fishing village.

For a blend of culture and breathtaking views, visit the Tanah Lot temple, one of Bali's most sacred landmarks. (Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 8217. Phone: +62 361 880361)

Bali's beaches are magnificent, but there's more to explore. Head to Ubud, the island's cultural heart, renowned for its vibrant art scene and thriving food culture.

Nestled in a lush garden setting, Mozaic serves up a delightful fusion of modern European cooking techniques and local Indonesian flavors. (Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Phone: +62 361 975768)

For an unforgettable stay with spectacular views, consider Amankila. Located on a hilltop, guests are whisked down to a serene black-sand beach by golf cart. (Amankila, Manggis PO Box 33, Manggis, Bali 80871 Indonesia. Phone: +62 361 341333)

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Once the capital of a vast global empire in the 1500s, Lisbon gradually faded into obscurity in the southwestern corner of Europe. However, in recent years, it's been gaining recognition as what some now call “the coolest city in Europe.”

In May, Lisbon offers a sweet spot before the summer heat and tourist crowds arrive. Enjoy pleasant temperatures and take advantage of the lower costs that come with visiting the city in the shoulder season.

Tennis fans visiting early in May might want to check out the Millennium Estoril Open, taking place from April 27 to May 5 at Clube de Ténis do Estoril. (Av. Condes de Barcelona, 2765-470 Estoril, Portugal. Phone: +351 21 466 2770).

Experience a fusion of Portuguese and Spanish culture at The Festival of Iberian Mask, running from May 16-19, 2019. The event features crafts, live music, and much more. (Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa. Phone: +351 21 759 9141)

A fresh addition to the city's vibrant arts scene, ARCOlisboa is quickly becoming a major draw for international visitors. Some are even dubbing Lisbon 'the new Berlin.' The 2019 edition of ARCOlisboa will run from May 16-19 at the Cordoaria Nacional. (R. da Junqueira 342, 1300-598 Lisbon. Phone: +351 91 966 6490).

Be sure to stop by one of Lisbon’s famous pastelarias (pastry shops), which serve as the heart of many neighborhoods. A standout is Centro Ideal de Graça, which offers delicious treats in a charming setting. (Largo da Graça 5,6,7, Lisbon, Portugal 1170-165. Phone: +351 21 886 1673).

May is the ideal time for a ride on Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28, which takes you on a scenic journey through the twisting streets of the historic Alfama district.

4. Peru

May marks the beginning of Peru's dry season, with sunny days and crisp nights in the Andes. It’s the perfect time to visit, as the crowds are still light.

Peru's landscape is as varied as its weather, offering everything from deserts and high-altitude mountains to lush Amazonian jungles. Be sure to pack appropriately for the regions you'll be visiting; what's suitable for the Andes may not work in the humid Amazon.

Lima, Peru's bustling capital, can be shrouded in fog and overcast skies during May. But don’t let the weather get you down—nothing beats the gloomy chill like Peru’s delectable cuisine, from ceviche (raw fish cured in citrus) to picarones (sweet potato or squash doughnuts).

Lima is home to a number of world-class restaurants. Central is a standout, frequently ranked as one of the best dining experiences in all of Latin America. (Santa Isabel 376 Miraflores Lima. Phone: +51 1 2428515).

Make time to explore Lima’s rich colonial architecture. A must-see is the Basilica Cathedral of Lima, located in the heart of Plaza Mayor. Built in 1535, this historical landmark also serves as the final resting place of conquistador Francisco Pizarro. (Jirón Carabaya, Cercado de Lima 15001. Phone: +51 1 4279647).

With the arrival of clearer skies in May, why not take your adventure to new heights? Spend the night in the Sacred Valley in clear pods suspended on a cliffside at Skylodge Adventure Suites. (Phone: +51 084-201253).

Stretching over 70 miles from the historic city of Cusco to the world-renowned Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is a region of breathtaking natural beauty. While Machu Picchu remains the star attraction, the valley offers plenty more, including Chinchero, a village famous for its vibrant textiles.

A unique May celebration: Fiesta de la Cruz is a religious festival observed primarily in the Andean Highlands from May 2 to 4. Expect processions of crosses, lively music, and spectacular fireworks. The festival peaks on May 3 and may go by different names depending on the location.

5. Malawi

Malawi might not be on your radar, but this small, landlocked country nestled between larger southern African nations is a hidden gem. It's known for its stunning landscapes and the warmth of its welcoming people.

May marks the beginning of Malawi's cool and dry season, offering pleasant temperatures and lush greenery from the recent rainy season—making it a perfect time to visit.

The main attraction here – and deservedly so – is Lake Malawi. As Africa’s third-largest lake, it’s home to the highest number of fish species of any lake worldwide.

If you're into freshwater snorkeling or diving, this is a paradise. Not only can you marvel at the vibrant and unique fish, but the lake's shores are also frequented by birds, warthogs, baboons, hippos, and even elephants.

Lake Malawi is just the beginning of what this stunning region offers. Here are two more must-see attractions:

– Mount Mulanje: Located in southern Malawi, this towering granite peak dominates the landscape. It offers fantastic hiking opportunities for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned hikers.

– Majete Wildlife Reserve: This reserve is a true success story of restoration. Once devastated by poaching in the 1990s, it’s now a thriving conservation area where you can spot The Big Five – elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo. It’s a chance to see Africa’s wildlife up close while supporting the ongoing recovery efforts. (P.O Box 232 Chikwawa. Phone: +265 999 52 17 41).

According to Hall from AAA, US citizens are required to obtain a tourist visa for travel.

"To apply for a visa, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date. For more information, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Malawi," Hall advises.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides important health guidelines for those traveling to Malawi.