My Travel Predictions for 2018
As September rolls around each year and the days start to warm up, my daydreams move from snowy mountains to sandy beaches; and my inbox fills up with amazing travel deals for the next 12 months. September is ‘Earlybird’ season when airlines, tour companies and cruises offer great prices for travel in the next 12 months.
I believe 2018 will be the year of the path less travelled, of visiting lesser known places, the smaller countries and towns, cruising on the smaller ships, and with that in mind, my top picks for 2018 are:
Iceland:
Thanks, in part to the phenomenon that is the Games of Thrones, tourism in Iceland has boomed in recent years and it looks like it will be staying popular in 2018. With its other worldly scenery, the chance to see the Northern lights, amazing wildlife and friendly people, Iceland has so much to offer in every season. Whether you choose to hire a car and explore off the beaten track yourselves, do a guided tour or even a small ship cruise there is something for everyone in Iceland.
Scotland:
While we’re talking TV show tie-ins, Outlander fans are heading to Scotland to experience the land that inspired the show. From ancient and mysterious standing stones to dramatic castles, magnificent stately homes and breath-taking landscapes, Scotland offers an incredible journey.
While the UK is an ever-popular destination, people are leaving London behind to explore further afield, from the Cornish beaches to the Highlands of Scotland. Why not fly straight into Edinburgh or Glasgow and explore from there – you can always get the train down to London and have a few days in the exploring the capital before you fly home.
Sri Lanka:
Closer to home, Sri Lanka is the up and coming Asian destination. With beautiful beaches and stunning new hotels, it’s perfect for a relaxing beach getaway, but that barely scratches the surface of all Sri Lanka has to offer. With blue whales and dolphins; elephants and leopards; caves that have been the site of sacred pilgrimage since the 1st Century BC; an ancient citadel built in 5th Century; the history and wildlife on show in Sri Lanka are truly spectacular.
And I haven’t even mentioned the tea yet…
Small ship cruising:
Not a destination as such, but for those who enjoy a touch of luxury while away, who like to see the world in comfort and style, Small Ship Ocean cruises are taking off. Because these ships are smaller than the huge Ocean Liners, they are much more focused on the destinations you visit – they can get into the smaller, less visited ports, meaning you get more of an up close and personal experience of the places you are visiting. You can find a Small Ship Cruise just about anywhere in the world, from Dublin to Cape Town, Tokyo to the Galapagos.
Active adventures:
For those who want to combine a love of exercise with exploring the world, there are so many options. From trekking in the Himalayas to cycling-and-barge trips through Holland; from running a marathon along the Great Wall of China to multisport tours in Costa Rica that include surfing, cycling, hiking and rafting, there are trips for every level of fitness and ability. Whether you want to challenge and push yourself, or simply enjoy doing something you love somewhere different, there is a trip out there for you!
Also on the health theme, wellness travel will remain a popular. From a yoga retreats to a health spas there is a plethora of options!
So, those are my thoughts on travel in the next 12 months – I hope I have given you some inspiration…and as long as you are out exploring the world, anywhere is a good place to go!