Where can I take you in 2017?

Judith Maughan on 04 January 2017
I have looked back at your travel in 2016 and what you have been asking me to find for you in 2017. Long haul travel is high on your wish-lists for 2017 with more of my customers asking for unique experiences and amazing destinations to tick off the bucket list.

Even with challenging times ahead, Europe is still a firm favourite with families and couples who want a 7-night stay or have to travel in the school holidays. For holidays 14 nights or more you are definitely wanting to travel further afield, with 2 or 3 destinations included in the holiday. I have included my top hotel suggestions below; please get in touch for more information

My top destinations for 2017

Peru

Sublime landscapes, wildlife, history, culture - Peru has more than its fair share. Its famed snow-capped Andean peaks shelter the temples and fortresses of the Inca and other pre-Columbian cultures, linked by a network of paved trails.

Much of Peru’s territory lies in the Amazon basin, swathed in tropical forest, surviving virtually untouched; but its diversity of exotic wildlife and vegetation is surprisingly accessible. Peru’s arid coastline is dotted with the haunting remnants of ancient cultures -easy to visit, a bit harder to decipher, always fascinating. Above and besides of all of this, the Spanish colonial heritage has survived to provide a living record of the richness of its art and architecture, from a humble village to imperial city, the visitor is spoilt for choice. The markets, music, and fiestas of contemporary Peru just add to the colour.

I have customers already booked on the Inca trail for 2017. A real trekking adventure.

New York

You can’t get a big enough slice of The Big Apple. Rather than just staying in New York though, many of you are going beyond the city limits and continuing your stay in Boston, Washington and further afield to Las Vegas and San Francisco. You’re also venturing on into Canada, thanks to the great rail and air links which are available. My hotel suggestions: Wyndham New Yorker, Crowne Plaza Times square, The Westin New York Times square, The Beekman a Thompson Hotel

Maldives

The Maldives are as popular as ever. With plenty of new five-star resorts, including the new OZEN by Atmosphere, the refurbished LUX* South Ari Atol . The Kuredu island resort and spa are still at the top spot with a great choice of accommodation including beach and water villas. The Maldives continue to be the number one choice for honeymooners – and all-inclusive options are really attractive right now.

Las Vegas

The best place to let loose and have fun. Leave the world behind and immerse yourself in our endless entertainment options, world-famous restaurants, beautiful resorts, and more shopping than you could do in a day. From the classic casinos of Fremont Street to the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas offers something to exceed your wildest expectations.

Several airlines offer direct nonstop flights from the UK to Las Vegas, such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Norwegian Air and Thomas Cook. In addition to this, obtaining a travel visa is easier than ever, which makes your trip to Las Vegas seem that much closer.

My customers visit Las Vegas as a short break or as part of a USA road trip. Part of the appeal to Las Vegas is what it can offer beyond the casinos, for instance, an excursion to visit an Indian tribe and horseback riding in the Grand Canyon.

My Hotel suggestions The Bellagio, MGM grand hotel and Casino, The Aria resort and Casino and the Venetian

Mauritius

Mauritius is an ever popular choice, with travellers heading to the Indian Ocean for beautiful beaches and diverse culture. A safari in South Africa is very popular to twin with Mauritius. The Lux Grand Daube is an excellent choice if you are looking for all inclusive in Mauritius and for complete luxury choose the Constance le Prince Maurice.

CRUISING

Cruising has changed dramatically over recent years and the old stereotype of cruises being stuffy and formal, just for old people, no longer applies. Of course, if you want a formal, traditional cruise experience, there are still plenty of choices out there for you. Although, nowadays a lot of people want a different experience and with the vast range of cruises available, there is now something for everyone.

The new super-ships have every kind of activity available, for adults and children, including excellent kids clubs. There is a wide choice of dining options available, formal and informal. You don't have to dress for dinner each night if you don't want to. There are a lot of more relaxed and informal ships to choose from now and a huge choice of itineraries and destinations, from the old favourites in the Med and Caribbean, to unique, specialist cruises, such as Antarctica and the Northern lights.

Our cruise brochure is now available. If you would like to hear more about cruising with Travel Counsellors please let me know and I will send you a copy of the brochure.