22 minute read
Top Trips for 2022
1JORDAN & SAUDI ARABIA
Unique jaunt through the iconic Middle-East
Advertisement
Explore’s Jour ney Through Arabia tour is currently the only trip on the market that transports visitors overland from Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea-hub of Jeddah, through desert and ancient cities, and then into Jordan. The route takes travellers through the some of the Middle East’s most fabled sights: exploring ancient the Nabataean cities of Hegra and Petra, camping out in the Wadi Rum desert while appreciating traditional Bedouin hospitality, and taking a boat trip to the 100 islands off Umluj, the ‘Maldives of Saudi Arabia’ – with marine life such as turtle and dugong – before finishing at the Dead Sea and Amman. Who? Explore (01252 884709; explore.co.uk) When? 19 March, 7 May, 10 Sept, 8, 15, 29 Oct, 19 Nov, 23 Dec 2022 How long? 11 nights How much? £2,599pp (excluding int’l flights) 2 USA
Follow the Civil Rights trail
Some of the biggest milestones in the USA’s Civil Rights history may have began in seemingly inauspicious places – a bus, a high school, a bridge – but these spaces are now landmarks. On America As You Like It’s Journey to Freedom – Martin Luther King Tour, visitors will discover a living catalogue dedicated to the story of equality while travelling through the Southern states of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. As well as Civil Rights history, travellers will go on a musical journey through epicentres such as Memphis and Nashville. In between tracing some of the 20th century’s most momentous history and culture, visitors will get to enjoy a large slice of Southern hospitality along the way. Who? America As You Like It (020 8742 8299; americaasyoulikeit.com) When? Flexible How long? 14 nights How much? From £1,730pp (including int’l flights)
3ROMANIA
Bite into Central Europe’s biggest mystery
Latin America expert Llama Travel is a Wanderlust readers’ favourite – your three-time Tour Operator of the Year winner – and is now applying its formula to Europe. Its Highlights of Transylvania tour is the perfect introduction to little-visited Romania’s mysterious past. Journey to some of Central Europe’s most remarkable gothic castles, notably the Bran (Dracula’s) Castle and Peleș Castle; explore the mountain bear sanctuary that lies in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, then continue through Transylvania with visits to the traditional villages of Viscri and Biertan, as well as the richly diverse architecture of the medieval cities of Sighișoara and Sibiu. Who? Llama Travel (020 7263 3000; llamatravel.com) When? Departure on 3 May, 7 Jun, 5 Jul, 6 Sept & 20 Sept 2022 How long? 6 nights How much? From £999pp (including int’l flights) 4 AUSTRALIA
Go green Down Under
When Wanderlust readers finally get back to their Most Desirable Country in 2022, they can do so responsibly. During the time spent on Audley Travel’s Coast, Outback and Reef – The Eco-Friendly Way, they'll avoid the hotspots while keeping one eye on their carbon footprint – for example, visitors could travel from Adelaide to Sydney via the Indian Pacific train, explore local boutique wineries by e-bike and kayak to see dolphins. But whether in the Blue Mountains, the Great Barrier Reef or the Flinders Ranges, there will be distinctive accommodation available with the highest environmental credentials, only matched by the comfort they offer – an experience to justify that top spot! Who? Audley Travel (01993 838810; audleytravel.com) When? Tailormade How long? 25 nights How much? From £6,145pp (including int’l flights)
8SCOTLAND
A fresh take on a Scottish success
The North Coast 500 route has been a huge success since its launch in 2015, but this enhanced version of it goes slower, deeper and wilder. Starting in Inverness via the Cairngorms, and then into the far North up to Cape Wrath, Celtic Routes’ North Coast 500 encompasses ancient castles, mystical lochs and some of Europe’s most rugged coast line. At points, visitors will swap their specially prepared Land Rover for a kayak wildlife adventure, learn to fly-fish with expert guides, or head out to Handa Island Reserve and its incredible seabirds – including guillemots, razorbills and great skuas – as well as whales, dolphins and seals. The trail then weaves along the island-dotted west coast to take on the daunting Bealach Na Ba pass, before crossing to the Isle of Skye. Who? Celtic Routes (07522 776160; celticroute.com) When? Flexible How long? 7 nights How much? £1,450pp 9 LAOS
See authentic Laos on its new railway
Be among the first to travel on Laos’ brand-new train line on InsideAsia Tours’ Laos by Train, journeying from Vientiane’s historic temples and monuments to the towering limestone karsts, lush green rice fields and blue lagoons of Vang Vieng. Away from the train, there are opportunities to experience Muang La’s pastoral serenity, float on a private boat along the Nam Song River and meet the Ikho, Hmong and Khamu communities that dwell 1,000m up the mountains. The end-ofthe-line is spiritual capital Luang Prabang, where visitors can stop by the MandaLao Elephant Sanctuary, learn about family farming, visit a social enterprise buffalo dairy and enjoy a picnic beside the Kuang Si waterfall. Who? InsideAsia Tours (0117 244 3380; insideasiatours.com) When? Flexible How long? 10 nights How much? £2,661pp (excluding int’l flights)
10 SOUTH KOREA Discover South Korea’s wild outdoors South Korea is making a deserved comeback in recent years, having seemingly fallen off travellers’ maps, and its trove of wild landscapes help explain why. Bamboo Travel’s Adventure Korea private tour focuses on this, taking in some of the country’s most exciting scenery while exploring its array of cultural and historical treasures. Beginning in Seoul, this itinerary takes in the rugged east coast with a hike in Seoraksan National Park, a stay in a Buddhist temple in Busan and also gives visitors time to discover why volcanic Jeju Island was declared an ‘exotic’ fantasy in Korean TV smash Squid Game. Who? Bamboo Travel (020 7720 9285; bambootravel.co.uk) When? March to May; September to November How long? 12 nights How much? From £3,850pp (including int’l flights) 11 ALASKA, USA Brown bear spotting on Kodiak The Kodiak Brown Bear Center is located in the heart of the 1.9 million acre Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world. Windows On The Wild’s Bear Viewing on Kodiak Island trip offers opportunities to see Kodiak brown bear in their natural habitat, from viewing areas strategically located in the field as well as a custom-built catamaran. Visitors are based on Camp Island on Karluk Lake, boasting around 50km of shoreline and countless tributaries that create Kodiak’s high salmon concentrations, drawing the bears closer to be observed, photographed and understood from a safe distance. Who? Windows On The Wild (020 8742 1556; windowsonthewild.com) When? July to September How long? 7 nights How much? From £4,975pp (excluding int’l flights)
12 TIMOR-LESTE Discover a South-East Asian gem
Boasting rugged jungle landscapes, unique cultural identities, pristine beaches and colourful marine environments, it’s bizarre that Timor-Leste (or East Timor) still remains off most travellers’ to-do lists. Regent Holidays is aiming to rectify that situation on its Timor-Leste In-depth group tour. Among its highlights is the chance to take an outrigger to the uninhabited Jaco Island, located within Nino Konis Santana NP; looking for whales off the northern coast; visiting the 30,000-year-old Ili Kere Kere Caves; and hiking to Ariana Mountain. The trip finishes at Atauro Island, where there are opportunities to trek, dive and snorkel in waters that are said to be some of the best in the world. Who? Regent Holidays (020 7666 1244; regent-holidays.co.uk) When? 9 October 2022 How long? 12 nights How much? £3,075pp (excluding int’l flights)
13 BOTSWANA Follow 25,000 migrating zebra Visitors arrive at Botswana’s national parks with the promise of lions, elephants, cheetahs and wildebeests. What’s less well known is that the country boasts the second-biggest migration in sub-Saharan Africa – 25,000 zebra, making the trek from the Chobe to the Makgadikgadi Pans. Abercrombie & Kent’s Spectacular Zebra Migration witnesses the drama as it unfolds against the backdrop of wide-open vistas of shallow streams, carpeted emerald plains and giant, ancient Baines’ baobabs. The experience ends at Leroo La Tau safari camp, set on the natural cliffs beside the Boteti River, where their water-side hide affords views of the zebra and hippo taking a cooling dip. Who? Abercrombie & Kent (01242 547760; abercrombiekent.co.uk) When? Flexible How long? 3 nights How much? From £2,215pp (excluding int’l flights) 14 ICELAND, SWEDEN, FINLAND & NORWAY The ‘new normal’ Nordic-style Working from home’s now just a regular part of post-pan-
demic life. But why work from your home? Discover the World’s new Work Away portfolio features accommodation in destinations that are perfect for combining work and play, like a cosy lodge in Iceland with views of an ice-capped volcano or a stylish log cabin deep in Lapland, where once you flip down your laptop lid you’re already in a prime location to step outside and witness the midnight sun or northern lights. Whether it’s just to stay for a week or several months, DTW will be able to organise a prime Nordic destination with a specially negotiated self-catering accommodation and that all-essential good WiFi. Who? Discover the World (01737 214291; discover-the-world.com) When? Flexible How long? 7 nights plus How much? From £869pp (excluding int’l flights)
15 FRENCH POLYNESIA Meet the locals of the Austral Islands Leave the French Polynesian cliches to the tourists, and instead get an authentic insight into this South Pacific archipelago by island-hopping through its remote southern-most Austral Islands on Travel Nation’s Discover the Austral Islands trip. Staying in small Tahitian guesthouses on every stop, visitors will get an understanding of local life as well as tales of Bounty mutineers. But while French Polynesia is justly celebrated for its natural beauty and aquatic adventures, these islands are under-appreciated for their whale watching: on Rurutu, there’s even the extremely rare opportunity to snorkel with humpback whales. Who? Travel Nation (01273 320580; travelnation.co.uk) When? Flexible How long? 16 nights How much? From £4,245pp (including int’l flights) 16 UGANDA Gorilla conservation with Dr Gladys One of three 2019 finalists for the Tusk Awards for Conservation, Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is the ideal company to get up close with Uganda’s endangered mountain gorilla population with. For their Uganda Wildlife & Conser vation Small Group Tour, Rainbow Tours is the only UK tour operator to join Dr Gladys and her team of experienced ranger-guides as they venture into Bwindi's Impenetrable National Park for a full day of gorilla tracking as part of their efforts to highlight the plight of the Endangered Mountain gorilla. The itinerary also includes the chance to visit the Gorilla Conservation centre and monitor the movement of lions into conflict ‘hot’ zones. Who? Rainbow Tours (020 7666 1260; rainbowtours.co.uk) When? 5 October 2022 How long? 17 nights How much? £8,575pp (including int’l flights)
17 JAPAN Explore the remote, rare Ryukyu islands The Ryukyu Islands of Japan spread from Kyushu in a perfect half moon-shaped archipelago down to Taiwan, with Okinawa its crown jewel. YellowWood Adventures’ Lost Islands of Japan adventure journeys to isolated Tokunoshima and Okinoerabu, islands never before visited by Western tour groups, as well as through prehistoric cedar forests cradled within the volcanic mountains of Yakushima. There visitors will discover the joys of a slow pace of life, sample the fiery locally-brewed shochu; taste the freshest of fresh sushi and swim in phosphorescent waters over coral reefs. Who? YellowWood Adventures (020 7846 0197; yellowwoodadventures.com) When? 22 Oct-2 Nov 2022 How long? 11 nights How much? £3,299pp (excluding int’l flights) 18 ITALY Go rewilding in Abruzzo NP Rewilding projects aren’t just of massive benefit to the local environment, as many travellers across the planet are increasingly testifying. Exodus Travels’ Rewilding the Apennines walking tour delves into the wild heart of Abruzzo NP, home to chamois, deer, wolves and golden eagles, as well as the rare Marsican brown bear. Visitors will enjoy the scenery on foot on some walking trails as well as experiencing the region’s ever hospitable people and their colourful and authentic culture. Led by skilled nature guides and sustained by some of the finest local food and wine, travellers can begin to truly understand the importance of using wildlife corridors to connect protected areas. Who? Exodus Travels (020 3131 2785; exodustravels.co.uk) When? 9 July & 3 Sept 2022 How long? 5 nights How much? £2,349pp (including int’l flights; option for train travel)
19 ARMENIA Ancient Caucasus history & culture The little-appreciated Caucasus have long-deserved exploring in more depth, and Armenia – boasting a deep well of Euro-history – is very much a case in point. Cox & Kings’ Authentic Armenia private tour experiences the country’s distinctive culture and mountainous scenery. One day it could be visiting ancient temples and monasteries, such as the UNESCO-listed Etchmiadzin Cathedral, 9th-century Tatev monastic complex (reached by the world’s longest double-track cable car) or Garni’s pagan temple – dating back to AD1; the next, visitors could be taking in the Megerian carpet factory or stopping with locals who teach how to make Armenian vodka, gata (pastry) or traditional lavash bread. Who? Cox & Kings (03330 603303; coxandkings.co.uk) When? Flexible How long? 6 nights How much? From £1,995pp (including int’l flights) 20 USA & RUSSIA Cruise remote Wrangel Island Russia’s most remote wildlife sanctuary, Wrangel Island boasts the world’s highest concentration of polar bear dens as well as the world’s largest population of Pacific walrus, but that’s just two reasons why this cruise is essential. Setting sail from Nome, Polar Routes’ Wrangel Island Safari will also let passengers spot migratory birds including snowy owls, snow geese and long-tailed skuas, as well as reindeer, musk oxen and Arctic fox. Having escaped glaciation during the last Ice Age, Wrangel is also a bonsai garden of some 400 plant species and boasts a human history as dramatic as the land. Explore the Chukotka coast, where beluga, grey and humpback whales feed and experience traditional Chukchi life. Who? Polar Routes (020 3196 1000; polarroutes.co.uk) When? July 2022 How long? 15 nights How much? £10,600pp (excluding int’l flights)
21 USA Combine Vegas with a rocky rail Enjoy two sides of the ‘wild west’ by combining the glitz of Vegas with a rail journey through the glory of Utah’s unvarnished natural splendour. Beginning with Las Vegas’ larger-than-life pleasures, Flight Centre’s Iconic Vegas & Utah by Rocky Rail trip then stops at Zion NP, before overnighting at Bryce Canyon’s arid red landscapes and quirky hoodoos. Take in landmarks like the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef NP and Moab – famous for Arches and Canyonlands – ahead of hopping aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. While seated, soak in towering mountains, hear tales of the landscapes and sample delicious local cuisine while chugging towards Denver. Who? Flight Centre (020 83366 464; flightcentre.co.uk) When? April to October How long? 8 nights (incl 2 days on the train) How much? £3,669pp (including int’l flights) 22 PORTUGAL Go on a Portuguese musical meander Sweeping Atlantic vistas, mountain sierras and ancient cathedrals and monasteries. Mouth-watering cuisine, world-class wines and the rich musical traditions. Portugal is finally getting the attention it deserves as a wildly diverse destination, and Wendy Wu Tours’s Portugal Uncovered winds down the length of it, starting with Porto in the north, then going through Geres National Park, the Douro Valley, Coimbra and Evora before ending in Lisbon; here visitors will go on a unique walking tour to experience the emotion of Fado music, discovering Old Lisbon while being personally guided by a Fado singer. Who? Wendy Wu Tours (0808 258 0612; wendywutours.co.uk) When? 14 May, 10 September, 8 October How long? 11 nights How much? From £2,450pp (including int’l flights)
MAKE A SPLASH IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Three incredible coastal areas, five local secrets and one adventure of a lifetime in Western Australia
Whether you’re seeking unspoiled landscapes, wild flora, unique fauna or welcoming culture, Western Australia’s diversity promises an adventure soaked in sunshine, surf and fine wine. With daily direct flights from London to Perth, it’s much closer than you think. Here are three ways to experience Australia’s grandest state…
Camera curiosity
An Australian sea lion checks out the lens in the waters off Carnac Island – other wildlife to find here include bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals
Perth’s beaches and islands
WHEN TO GO: Perth is great all year-round but travel between October and March for warm weather, great snorkelling and festivals. THE HIGHLIGHTS: Perth is blessed with 19 city beaches as well as islands that capture the spirit of Australian life. It’s easy to see why more than 80% of the population live near the coast.
Penguin Island, a five-minute ferry from Rockingham, is where wild dolphins swim alongside people, tiny penguins waddle, and sea lions look on curiously as you paddle gracefully past their front door. Continue your wildlife search with a bike ride around Rottnest Island in search of smiling quokkas. The shallow, calm water of The Basin and Pinky Beach will likely seduce you in for a swim.
Back on the mainland, skim the surface of the Coogee Maritime Trail, a purpose-made snorkelling spot that includes a shipwreck off of Coogee Beach. Cool down by joining the locals jumping off the jetty. North of the Swan River, Mettam’s Pool lures beginner snorkellers for its calm waters and colourful fish.
For a slower-paced day, indulge your creative side by strolling the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition at Cottesloe Beach where larger-than-life artworks dot the shoreline each March. End the day with a refreshing beverage as the sun and Indian Ocean collaborate in their own version of vivid expression. WHERE TO STAY: Discovery Rottnest Island Let the waves lull you to sleep at Discovery Rottnest Island’s eco-tent resort on the edge of Pinky Beach. QT Perth Bold contemporary decor and design makes this hotel stand out from the rest. WHERE TO EAT: Il Lido Italian Canteen Inhale the salt air and the vistas as you devour seasonal selections paired with hand-made pasta at this local favourite. Bathers Beach House Loved for its prime sunset location, Bathers Beach House has it all: vibe, views and gourmet share plates. TOP TOUR: Escape the city for a day of wine sipping and boat tripping to the Swan Valley with Captain Cook Cruises where you’ll drink in the sights and samples of Western Australia’s original wine region. Docking at Sandalford Estate is a highlight.
ASK A LOCAL
Stephanie Lang, director, Seashells Hospitality Group; beachside accommodation across WA
Ryan Mossny, owner, Two Feet walking tours; tours of Perth and Fremantle
Ningaloo Reef
WHEN TO GO: March to October is a perfect time for wildlife, diving and snorkelling. THE HIGHLIGHTS: Deep dive into the wonders of the Ningaloo Coast, 300 km of pristine World Heritage-listed marine park teeming with aquatic mammals, fish, coral reef, and ocean adventures. Ningaloo Reef and its north-end town Exmouth lie about a two-hour flight north of Perth and attract ocean-loving visitors from around the globe. From March to July, you can snorkel with whale sharks, where strong ecotourism measures provide respectful encounters with these gentle giants. Your chances of spotting dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and humpback whales are also virtually guaranteed.
This region of Western Australia also attracts land-lubbers looking to roam the rugged terrain of Cape Range National Park in search of limestone and red dirt landscapes that bleed into gaping gorges, hidden habitat, carpets of wildflowers and the nation’s beloved icons: kangaroos and emus. Alternatively, a cruise along Yardie Creek’s towering red, green and gold cliffs provides ample opportunity to spot wallabies and cavecocooning sea eagles with little effort exerted.
On the southern end of Ningaloo is Coral Bay, a town rightly named for its abundance of coral reef, seashells and turquoise waters. WHERE TO STAY: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort Offering a range of hotel rooms, bungalows and apartments, this resort in Exmouth is a great gateway to the Ningaloo Reef. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Luxury eco-camping amongst dunes, reef at the doorstep and incredible food, drinks, and activities await. WHERE TO EAT: Froth Craft Brewery The perfect beer foam moustache, local seafood, and live music is waiting at this stop. The Beach Shack Expect friendly staff, tasty fish tacos and a lot of fun at this top dining spot. TOP TOUR: Travellers voted Ningaloo Whalesharks as the favourite whale shark swim excursion on the reef for their knowledgeable and friendly crew who are willing to go to the depths of the ocean to make your Western Australia ocean experience unforgettable.
ASK A LOCAL
Aimee Jan, Ningaloo guide and Ocean Photographer of the Year award winner
Wild wonders
Walk the 125km Cape to Cape Track; spot manta rays in Coral Bay; snorkel alongside whale sharks in Ningaloo Reef
Margaret River Region
WHEN TO GO: October to April. Whales are spotted June to December, and don’t miss Gourmet Escape in November. THE HIGHLIGHTS: The Margaret River region begins in Busselton where you can walk almost two kilometres out to sea without stepping foot in the water at the Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. At the end, visit the Underwater Observatory to spy 300 species of marine life and scuba divers.
For grander sea sights, set sail into the open water where humpback and blue whales splash. Whale spotting is also possible from the Cape to Cape Track, a 125km trail that edges the craggy coastline from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Cape Leeuwin. Guided day tours offer short walks on select sections.
Marine life experiences rule the region and at Hamelin Bay you can wade next to protected stingrays as they glide along the sandy ocean floor. On your way back to Perth, stop at Bunbury’s Dolphin Discovery Centre to learn about the diversity of sea and estuary life. More adventurous travellers may consider an early morning swim with local bottlenose dolphins.
No visit to Margaret River is complete without wine and dine days. Thankfully, Western Australia Gourmet Escape, brings celebrated winemakers and chefs together every November to tempt tastebuds and share inside tips and tales throughout events in Margaret River, Perth and the Swan Valley. WHERE TO STAY: Smiths Beach Resort Generous apartments and villas that offer a stay that feels like home. Pullman Bunker Bay Discreetly tucked into the countryside only steps away from the azure beach, a luxurious stay awaits. WHERE TO EAT: White Elephant Café Locals love this eaterie not only for its ocean atmosphere, but also its coffee and burgers. Vasse Felix Chardonnay, elegant surrounds, and inspired dishes make Vasse Felix a must. TOP TOUR: Follow the footsteps of the traditional land owners of the Margaret River region, the Wadandi and Bibbulman people, and discover 50,000 years of culture with Koolmal Dreaming. You’ll learn how to forage for food, why Ngilgi Cave is sacred, and the art of fire-starting.
ASK A LOCAL
Evan Gill, Vasse Felix; Wine Estate
“Snorkelling at the end of the Busselton Jetty from December to April is the best time to see huge schools of fish and incredible colours. Almost two kilometres out to sea in eight metres deep water, you are able to walk out and back again for a unique and unforgettable experience at one of Australia’s best artificial reefs.”
Lisa Shreeve, CEO at Busselton Jetty
TURN WAITING INTO PLANNING WITH TRAILFINDERS
When it comes to creating engaging and enticing travel itineraries, Trailfinders leads the way as the UK’s number one tour operator to Australia. Imagine jetting off on an 18-day holiday to Western Australia, sampling Margaret River wine, meeting quokkas on Rottnest Island, and swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef. Book Trailfinders’ Wine & Whale Sharks: The Best of Western Australia tour from £1,762 pp.
