We hope you are still full of inspiration and wanderlust for your next adventure – after all planning is all part of the fun. We started off our dream trips to plan for the future – part 1 here. Now one of the history lovers, foodies and island worshippers – where’s your dream destination?
For the history lovers:
Travel through time in Morocco
The souks in Morocco will instantly transport you to another world where colour and exotic aromas reign. Situated in North Africa, Morocco is a captivating country where centuries of history and tradition can still be felt. Visit cultural highlights such as the Koutoubia, a 12th century mosque and garden, or marvel at the Bahia Palace – an ornate 19th century palace complex. And for those who love design? Head to the stunning Ben Youssef Madrasa, an immaculately well preserved 14th-century former Islamic school adorned in colourful tiles and beautiful Moroccan architecture. Spend time wandering the Medina, getting lost down the dusty alleys and discovering stalls selling local spices, traditional mint tea or unique souvenirs. One to add to your dream trips!
Set your eyes on the temples in Japan
Japan has a wonderfully unique culture that has been frozen in time within their elegant temples and shrines which are peppered throughout the country. From the buzz of modern Tokyo to the tranquillity of Kyoto, the contrasts found within Japan are unlike any other country in the world making it the perfect holiday for those who love a culture far from their own. In the capital city, you could find yourself eating in robot cafes, visiting quirky museums or trying to navigate the famous Shibuya Crossing. One thing’s for sure – you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied no matter how long you stay in Tokyo.
The imperial capital of Kyoto was spared during the second World War and therefore houses thousands of ancient shrines and temples which date back centuries. Walking through the city is a fantastic way to experience the elegant architecture and appreciate the beauty of Japan. Of course for those interested in history, a visit to Hiroshima is a sobering experience, as you learn about the first atomic bomb and its devastating effects on the country and its people.
Explore the largest religious monument in the world – Angkor Wat
Undoubtedly one of the biggest draws of Cambodia, the complex of Angkor Wat was once the capital of the Khmer empire. It remains a strong symbol of national pride – it’s even featured on the Cambodian flag. Constructed in the early 12-century to worship the Hindu god Vishnu, it was later converted into a Buddhist temple. The vast area encompasses an impressive 162 hectares. Various crumbling structures, well-preserved temples, large tree roots and vines as nature has slowly taken over throughout the years. It’s easy to spend an entire day here exploring, seeing interesting structures around each corner and appreciating the true size of the complex.
Dream trips to plan for the future – For the foodies:
Eat your way through Thailand and Vietnam
If your dream holiday consists of eating your way around a destination, then look no further than these two southeast Asian gems. From the colourful fresh ingredients and abundance of flavours, Thailand and Vietnam are famed for serving some of the best food (and street food!) in the world. In fact a classic Pad Thai and the Vietnamese Spring Roll are now popular in restaurants all over the world. Scour the markets in Bangkok to find delicious street snacks. Or enjoy a local cooking class where you can learn the secrets behind the nation’s favourite dishes. Chaing Mai in Thailand and Hoi An in Vietnam are some of the best locations for this.
Dream Holidays – Taste test everything you find in Europe
The beauty of Europe is the vast differences between each country – and that includes their food! If you’ve wanted to plan an epic European rail trip then now’s the time to start thinking about it. Journey through Italy, indulging in pizza and pasta from the best of the best. Sample pierogies in Poland, schnitzel in Austria and currywurst in Germany. Snack on as many tapas as you can imagine in Spain or go chocolate tasting in Belgium.
From traditional caverns to modern hipster joints, the European food scene is truly like no other. And if you need something to wash all that delicious grub down with? Check out the Czech Republic, a country that drinks more beer per capita than anywhere else in the world. Or throw yourself in at the deep end with all day drinking at Oktoberfest in Munich. On top of this, almost every European country enjoys the al fresco dining scene, so visit in the summer and you could be enjoying fresh seafood on the shores of the Mediterranean, watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Dream trips to plan for the future -For the tropical island lovers:
Enjoy the best of both worlds on Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar, situated in the Indian Ocean just 25 kilometres from mainland Tanzania, is a popular spot in eastern Africa for those after a tropical holiday. The capital, Zanzibar City, is the commercial hub of the island and home to the historic centre, Stown Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of a labyrinth of winding alleys, traditional markets and crumbling architecture. A little out of the city, you’ll find various spice plantations where you can enjoy a spice tour.
Nungwi Beach is waiting to transport you to paradise with its white coral sands and clear turquoise waters. Snorkelling amongst the colourful marine life is one of the most popular activities here. Also enjoy a host of other water based activities such as kayaking, diving and boating. Dream holidays here we come!
“Go Slow” on the island of Caye Caulker
If you want to relax, then visiting the island with the moto “go slow” might be your dream holiday. Caye Caulker, a small Caribbean island just off the coast of Belize, is characterised by its white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and picturesque palm trees that line the shores. Cars are prohibited on the island and visitors are encouraged to rent bikes to explore the area. A great activity that promotes a slower form of travelling to take in more of the beautiful surroundings. Swimming, snorkelling and water sports are popular on the island as well as expeditions to the Great Blue Hole. This giant sinkhole is one of the best scuba diving sites in the world!
Island hop off the coast of Thailand
Thailand is famed for its beautiful beaches – in fact the country has around 8,000 islands with alluring shores just waiting to be explored. And while some beaches are undoubtedly more popular than others, if you take the time to venture a little you’re sure to find a tranquil pocket where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of Thailand. The longer you have, the higher the chances of you being able to discover the lesser known areas that are away from the popular haunts such as Koh Samui and Krabi (although they are beautiful too!) so take some time to ask locally what people recommend. Some of the best are Bamboo Island, Koh Muk Island and Koh Phayam Island, and of course, Phuket. Definitely one of the dream trips to plan for the future!
