CNN: Georgia.Top 16 Emerging Travel Destinations in 2016

(CNN) The best stories arise from the road less traveled.

As new routes launch, developing nations welcome tourism and closed-off regions emerge.

So what's hot in 2016?

We asked an expert panel of pros who thrive and survive on travel to new frontiers.

Whether it's staring into the eyes of a wild mountain gorilla inUganda, snorkeling amidst stingless jellyfish inPalauor drinking yak butter tea with nomads in a ger in theGobi, we're spoiled for choice with these 16 emerging destinations for 2016.

Georgia

A land of medieval architecture, timeless culture and staggering scenery,Georgiais simply stunning.

Blessed with 750 miles ofSouthern Caucasus mountains, this canvas invites walkers, horse riders and skiers.

Snow-encrusted summits descend into vast valleys, where age-old villages are dotted with ancient churches and watchtowers, between rolling vineyards.

What's new?

Cheap flights, new routes and improved infrastructure and accommodation confirmGeorgiaas big news for 2016.

Tbilisi, the capital, is a concoction of old and new, where balcony-studded houses and narrow cobbled alleyways mingle with galleries and cafes.

"This region could benefit from some of the turmoil in theMiddle East, offering similar travel highlights, albeit in a different cultural and topological makeup," says Bealby of Wild Frontiers.

"We have seen a big rise [in visitors] toGeorgiaand are expecting that to increase in 2016."

When to visit: February to November. May 26 is Independence Day.

http://edition.cnn.com/2015/12/22/travel/emerging-destinations-2016/index.html?iref=obinsite