It may be because these areas have been featured in film (Skyfall in Scotland or Lincoln in Gettysburg) or because they just have fantastic travel campaigns (“It’s more fun in the Philippines”) some areas stand out as the hot travel destination this year.

Scotland’s lush and rolling hills have long been a travelers dream, but this year with the popularity of Skyfall more people than ever are predicted to drive those winding roads and highlands. Through good fortune or incredible prescience, Scotland has planned many festivals and events this year that are sure to inspire visitors. Whether it’s the Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight in September or the Dumfries & Galloway Wildlife Festival in the spring – Scotland has even more going for it than usual in 2013.

Amsterdam is going to be one big party this year, starting with the 160^th anniversary of Vincent Van Gogh’s birthday. It takes place at the Van Gogh Museum and will have special exhibitions to celebrate the artist’s work. Also, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra turns 125 years old this year. The orchestra will celebrate with several concerts marking the special event.

But there are other anniversaries this year closer to home. One of the biggest is the 150^th anniversary of the Gettysburg address. That historical event, along with the popularity of the movie Lincoln, means that it’s a sure bet that Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, will be a hub of activity for Civil War buffs. The city has a huge battle re-enactment planned on the Fourth of July, along with other performances.

Rounding out the list is Rabat, Morocco. Recently named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the capital of Morocco is finally getting the recognition that it deserves. The city is a perfect blend of the old and the new, and it embraces its traditional Arabo-Muslim past while being cosmopolitan and modern.

Aicube believes that any one of these places are well worth a visit in 2013.