10 destinations we can't wait to visit once lockdown is over

Being unable to travel has only deepened our thirst for exploration. For seeing new sights, indulging in new dishes and encountering new experiences that open our eyes to the wonders that the world has to offer. With all this in mind, we decided to bring you the ten destinations that are top of our list for visiting once the travel ban is lifted.

Vietnam

A nation of sprawling rice terraces, soaring limestone karsts, long winding roads and bustling cities; Vietnam is heaven for travellers looking to capture as much as possible in a single trip.

We recommend making your trip to Vietnam a multi-centre adventure. Focus on the South by flying into Ho Chi Minh and visiting the historical Mekong Delta and the divers’ paradise of Phu Quoc Island. Or, explore the North by flying into Hanoi before venturing to the remote mountainous regions further north and out into Ha Long Bay to marvel at the otherworldly landscape that surrounds you.

Cape Town, South Africa

The Mother City. Cape Town is a cosmopolitan hub within easy reach of South Africa’s abundant natural phenomena making it perfect for any type of visitor.

After you’ve explored the city, lace up your hiking boots and head up Table Mountain for a view across the city skyline, before heading down to Boulder Beach to meet the resident penguins. If wildlife spotting takes your interest, the game reserves inland from Cape Town offer excellent opportunities to spot the big 5 on safari. No trip to the Western Cape would be complete without a visit to the vineyards of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch to sample a glass or two of their delicious homegrown wines. 

Sri Lanka

With its gorgeous soft sand beaches and glorious sunshine, Sri Lanka is an obvious choice for beach lovers. But, what many of its Indian Ocean counterparts lack in adventure, Sri Lanka has in abundance with the opportunity to go out on safari to spot elephants or the elusive leopard, or to explore the ancient ruins that litter its landscape such Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Mauritius

About as close as we can get to heaven on earth, the white sand, azure waters and gorgeous tropical climate of Mauritius are always going to entice us. Pair with this the stunning range of luxurious properties that adorn the island and you’ve got a dream destination for those looking to live out their fantasy of being cast away on a tropical island paradise.

California, USA

The Golden State is always high on our wish list thanks to the huge amount that’s on offer there. Golden beaches bathed in perennial sunshine, rugged mountains regions with opportunities for skiing, hiking and mountain biking; scenic wine regions serving up fresh seasonal produce all year-round, and globally renowned cities.

Our favourite way to explore California? By car of course. Ask your Travel Counsellor which route they’d recommend for you at the time of year you’re looking to visit.

Vancouver, Canada

Sat on British Columbia’s western frontier, Vancouver is a city at the heart of nature. Bordered by mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west, the city invites explorers to enjoy the thrills of nature and experience the charms of bustling city life. 

Across the Strait of Georgia, you’ll find Vancouver island where black bears and bald eagles are amongst the majestic creatures that call the dense wilderness home. 

Georgia

The Caucasus (the area between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea) has been growing in popularity over recent years, as more and more people have their eyes opened to the rich ancient culture and gorgeous landscape that exists there.

Georgia has been leading this growth with its network of remote mountain hiking trails and its intriguing architecture, centering around picturesque cities such as Tbilisi and striking medieval monasteries.

Delhi, India

The animated city of New Delhi is a kaleidoscope of colours that that brings the old and the new of India together in perfect unison. Often hectic and always memorable, a visit to Delhi affords you the opportunity to sample the authentic flavours of northern India and visit some of the region's most famous sites such as Hamayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort.

We recommend using Delhi as a starting point for exploring India’s Golden Triangle, where you can visit the Taj Mahal and the Pink City of Jaipur.

Kyoto, Japan

Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is still viewed as its cultural heart thanks to the collection of temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures that exist within the city.

In the spring and autumn, Kyoto is a magical setting for watching the emergence of the cherry blossoms and the subsequent burst of autumnal colours. At any time of year, visitors can walk through the bamboo forest, admire the traditional Japanese rock garden at Ryoanji Temple, or catch a performance at a traditional Kabuki theatre.

Whitsundays, Australia

The Whitsundays are a postcard-perfect collection of islands off Australia’s north-east coast. Thanks to the Australian Government’s strict rules regarding access to the islands, they’ve maintained their pristine condition and feeling of untouched beauty.

The ultimate photo opportunity comes at Whitehaven beach where the gently moving currents shift the soft white sand to create an ever-changing beach scene for us to enjoy.