Where to go for a special trip?
Previous memorable birthday celebrations have involved cocktails in the Caribbean and a safari and wine tasting in South Africa.
Kuoni recently published its Top Places for a Special Trip:
10 - South Africa - the classic safari destination but is also home to great beaches and popular waterfront in Cape Town, not forgetting the winelands and garden route. I’m lucky to have a friend living in Cape Town so have visited a few times.
9 – Vietnam - traditionally popular with young, adventurous backpackers, Vietnam is now following Thailand into the mainstream as it also offers great value once you are there. A big draw for me would also be the food.
8 – India – if you have ‘done’ the Golden Triangle, other must sees to experience include the River Ganges and the national parks. I’ve been to the southerly region of Kerala which is very laid back and increasingly popular for those seeking a contrast to the north.
7 – Italy – I’m very biased after working in Venice for 3 years, so can understand why it’s the best-selling short haul destination and the only European entry in the top 10. I’ve loved every region of Italy I’ve visited - the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Lake Garda and Sicily.
6 – Bali - top honeymoon destination, favoured not only for its reliable climate during the peak summer honeymoon months, but also the diverse landscapes and variety of luxury hotels, many with pool villas. Definitely on my wish list.
5 – USA – consistently popular for visits to Florida, Las Vegas and New York, but now increasingly for alternative city breaks and fly-drives in California and New England. I’ve visited New York several times, also had city breaks in Chicago, LA and San Francisco. Miami beach and Hawaii are good alternatives for a city beach stay.
4 – Mauritius – always a leader in the barefoot luxury trend. I recently attended some training on Mauritius and discovered it’s much more than just a beach destination. It’s a firm favourite for weddings and honeymoons but families are well catered for too and there’s no jet lag compared to the Caribbean.
3- Thailand - Still the most popular Far East destination. Real cultural experiences such as cycling tours, market visits and local food are what travellers are now looking for in less traditional areas and smaller islands. My dream destination for a yoga holiday.
2 – Sri Lanka - (removed due to current FCO travel guidelines)
1 – Maldives - deliver a level of luxury that was unheard of a generation ago. New hotels are being developed all the time which are contemporary but retain a simple slice of Maldivian charm. Indian Ocean is an affordable luxury I would like to experience more of.
Everyone I know has a travel bucket list and there are some trips that always come up like seeing the Northern Lights or going on a safari or visiting Machu Picchu. I’ve arranged trips to all these destinations for clients to tick off their list this year.
My current top 5 wish list which changes constantly: Vancouver and Rockies, Iceland, Mauritius, Bali, Elephant Hills – Thailand
Holidays are precious downtime and I like to combine some cultural and food experiences with some relaxation on my ideal break. I’ve finally booked a trip to Mexico for my birthday this year. I’m also planning a spa break and a UK country house weekend with some fine dining. Look out for more blogs about my trips.
Adventure awaits you in exotic destinations and off the beaten track journeys. From air balloon rides over exotic landscapes to riding on a catamaran over tropical seas in sunshine, what is the most memorable #TCExperience you have had on your travels? Where will your next ‘wish you were here’ moment be taken? If you have a special birthday or anniversary trip in mind that you would like help planning, please get in touch.