Where to go for that ‘big moment’

09 January 2026

Life is full of unforgettable moments, and some of the most magical ones happen when you’re exploring the world. From nature’s breathtaking spectacles to cultural celebrations that only come around once a year, these experiences are worth planning your travels around. Whether it’s witnessing Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms, marvelling at the Southern Lights in Australia, or standing amidst millions of migrating monarch butterflies in Mexico, these are the moments that stay with you forever. Let’s explore where - and when - you can be part of these extraordinary events.

Cherry blossom season in Japan and Washington

Japan’s cherry blossom season will leave you wowed, whether you picnic beneath the blooms of Osaka Castle Park or immerse yourself in nature among the trees of Mount Yoshino. The season usually starts mid-March and lasts from two weeks to a month. Alternatively, you can marvel at Washington DC’s cherry blossoms from late March until early April.

Wisteria blooms of Kawachi Fujien Gardens – Japan

Not just famous for cherry blossoms, the southern Japanese island of Kyushu boasts pink, purple, and white wisteria blooms that herald the arrival of spring. Between April and May, the wisteria trees of Kawachi Wisteria Garden, arranged into an arched tunnel, serve up a stunning seasonal display that will leave you in tune with the rhythms of nature.

Butterfly migration in Mexico

Every November, millions of monarch butterflies migrate from North America to the warmer climes of Mexico. This colourful spectacle can be seen in all its glory at Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacan. What makes it truly special is that each migration is undertaken by a new generation, with no other butterflies showing the way.

Aurora Australis, Australia

Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights, can be spotted fluttering across the skies of Tasmania between May and September. These remarkable light shows of green, purple, and gold have an ethereal quality. If you head to Tasmania’s Bruny or Satellite Islands, where light pollution is low, you have a great chance of witnessing the aurora in all its glory.

Diwali - India

Experience the mesmerising glow of a nation celebrating in unison during Diwali, India’s magnificent Festival of Lights. On the 8th November 2026, the country will be bathed in the warm, golden light of millions of tiny oil lamps (diyas), creating a magical atmosphere of hope, joy, and renewal.

Along the sacred banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi, thousands of lamps are set afloat on the water as part of the Dev Deepavali ceremony - a profound cultural moment, filled with warmth and hospitality - while in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, historic palaces and bustling markets are decorated with intricate light displays, creating an enchanting scene.

Astronomical events worth travelling for

Look to the skies in 2026 for a year of extraordinary celestial events, offering two rare opportunities to witness the sun disappear in some of the world's most spectacular locations.

First, for the truly intrepid explorer, an annular solar eclipse will occur on the 17th February, casting a 'ring of fire' over the stark, white wilderness of Antarctica. This is a journey for the adventurous at heart, a chance to witness a rare astronomical event from the most remote continent on Earth.

Then, on the 12th August, a total solar eclipse will chart a path across the Northern Hemisphere. The path of totality will cross over northern Spain, offering a chance to combine this awe-inspiring spectacle with the warmth of Spanish culture and cuisine. Watching the sun’s corona blaze in the darkened sky is a deeply moving experience that you will never forget.

To book your next trip, speak to your personal Travel Counsellor today.

Why Ikos Andalusia is setting a new standard for sustainable luxury on the Costa del Sol

09 July 2026

Luxury holidays and responsible travel are becoming increasingly connected, and Ikos Andalusia shows how the two can go hand in hand. Set on Playa de Guadalmansa between Marbella and Estepona, this award-winning resort pairs its renowned all-inclusive offering with ambitious environmental goals. Guests can still enjoy Michelin-starred menus, beachfront relaxation, and exceptional service, but behind the scenes, the resort is working towards net-zero carbon operations by 2030 while making meaningful changes that reduce its environmental impact.

Regnum Carya: Luxury on Turkey's Turquoise Coast with Sustainability at its Heart

09 July 2026

Turkey's Turquoise Coast has long been a favourite for sunshine holidays, but Belek offers far more than beautiful beaches. Fringed by pine forests and championship golf courses, this stretch of the Mediterranean combines warm seas with exceptional hospitality and easy access from Antalya International Airport. At Regnum Carya, luxury and sustainability go hand in hand, with a Luxury All-Inclusive experience that pairs first-class facilities with a genuine commitment to protecting the destination. From responsible resource management and biodiversity projects to supporting local communities, sustainability is woven into the everyday running of the resort, allowing guests to enjoy every moment while helping to preserve Belek's natural beauty for years to come.

5 European beaches you'll mistake for the Caribbean

07 July 2026

When you think of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, the Caribbean is probably one of the first places that comes to mind. But you don't always have to travel halfway around the world to find those postcard-perfect beaches. Across Europe, you'll find hidden bays, secluded coves, and stretches of coastline where the sea shimmers in every shade of blue. Some are tucked beneath dramatic cliffs, others sit alongside pine forests or tiny islands, but they all are guaranteed to make you look twice.