Deer Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon National Park

Photograph by Corey Rich, Aurora

When it comes to Deer Creek Canyon, a one-day hike is not recommended. Set aside two to three days for this adventure trip. Spring is the best time when the temperature is cooler and there is water. In the summer you risk extreme heat and flash floods.

Cherry Blossoms, Japan

Photograph by Diane Cook and Len Jenshel, National Geographic

“The cherries’ only fault: the crowds that gather when they bloom.”

From January all eyes are on the forecast to predict when the blossoming will begin. Starting in Okinawa, it typically reaches Kyoto and Tokyo by the end of March/beginning of April.

See more photos at Travel 365: Best of 2013