Must-do travel experiences: keep your holiday dreams in sight and plan something extra special

We believe it’s the unique, must-see places and must-live travel experiences that turn a great holiday into an unforgettable one. Throughout the pandemic, travel plans have been put on hold but the dream of an incredible holiday can very much be kept in sight. Many are now looking ahead to 2022 and beyond to get something extra special in their calendar to look forward to, and make up for lost time.  So here we present over 30 what we consider to be special holiday moments, for you to consider including as part of your next trip.

Craft your own chocolate in St Lucia

Chocolate lover or not, Hotel Chocolat’s St Lucia chocolate making experience is one not to miss. Tour the 140-acre Rabot Estate (St Lucia’s oldest plantation) and admire jaw dropping views of the rainforest canopy and Piton Mountains. Once you’ve picked your cocoa beans, just add a blend of sugar, butter and spices to craft your very own and completely unique chocolate bar.

St Lucia is brimming with exciting experiences, find the best in our ultimate guide blog.

Take a giant leap into the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote

If you can tear yourself away from Lanzarote’s idyllic beaches, the islands fascinating lunar-like landscape is waiting to be explored. Head to Timanfaya National Park and enjoy the colourful scenery of volcanic rocks or descend into the enchanting Los Jameos del Agua caves created by 4000 year old volcanic eruptions. For more information read things to do in Lanzarote.

Cruise around the Croatian Islands

Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw once commented that ‘those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik’. Our eight-day island hopping cruises take in crystal clear waters, countless coves and sparkling bays for leisurely swimming and sun worshiping. Sight-seeing highlights include UNESCO listed Dubrovnik, the stunning Mljet national park and the famously beautiful Zlatni Rat beach.

For more Croatian inspiration read Top 5 Most Beautiful Croatian Islands.

Admire Moorish design at Alhambra Palace, Granada

The Alhambra Palace in Granada is the swansong of the Moor’s sophisticated civilisation. Home to sultans, royals and a young Catherine of Aragon, it impresses with its skillful geometric architecture, intricate, thoughtful aesthetics and beautiful ceramics and plasterwork. Walls carved with stunning Arabic calligraphy and pristine gardens with undisturbed pools and gentle fountains, add to the charm and splendour. For more Spanish delights, visit our post Top Historical Sites in Spain.

Wind your way though Tuscan countryside in a Fiat 500

To experience the true essence of Italy, drive through its rolling Tuscany hills alongside endless vineyards, then skirt along the coast with the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean Sea to your side. Set your own pace so that you can stop to marvel at the ever changing landscape whenever the mood takes you. Travel in La Dolce Vita style at the wheel of an iconic Fiat 500 or Mini. And as they said in the Italian Job “Just remember this – in this country they drive on the wrong side of the road.”

Swimming with manta rays

The Maldives is one of the best countries in the world for swimming with manta rays. These graceful, dancing creatures have been in our seas for over five million years, and can have wingspans exceeding six metres. Swimming, diving or snorkelling with one of the ocean’s largest animals is a truly unforgettable experience. From May to November, Baa Atoll in the Maldives attracts many large manta rays.

Watch ancient wonders glide past on an Egyptian Nile cruise

Drift down the Nile and you can’t help but fall under Egypt’s spell. A Nile cruise offers mystery and intrigue, and lets you discover some of the world’s most captivating historical attractions. Stop off to explore ancient temples, view the inspiration for Agatha Christie’s novel Death on the Nile, and gaze upon a spectacular night sky with a breath-taking array of stars.

Catch a sunset in Santorini

Santorini sunsets are spectacular and regarded as some of the finest to be seen anywhere in the world; villages that seem to cascade down hillsides and volcanic cliffs make for a fine backdrop. As the sun starts to sink below the horizon, the white washed houses and blue domed roofs are bathed in the characteristic glow of a Mediterranean evening that will linger long in your mind’s eye.

Top tip: Santorini can draw the crowds. It’s best to try to view a sunset when the cruise ships are not in port.

Read ‘The Island’ whilst admiring the island itself

It may not sound glamorous, but once a Leper colony, the mysterious island of Spinalonga was thrown into view with the turbulent love story portrayed by Victoria Hislop in her novel ‘The Island’. Located off the shores of Plaka in Crete, Spinalonga can be simply admired from afar or visited by boat. But, there is no better way to admire the beauty and humbling stories of Spinalonga than from your own private pool at the Blue Palace Resort & Spa, with the book itself in hand…

Dive in to the underwater sculpture park in Grenada

Dive into the shallow waters off Moliniere Point in Grenada. Combining artistic flair with coral protection, the underwater sculpture park is a fascinating, yet eerie display of figures based on real life individuals who lived in the area. Now teaming with life, you can dive or snorkel your way through the water examining the 68 different and captivating attractions.

Looking for a holiday to Grenada? Read our top 10 things to do in Grenada to help plan your trip.

Admire Venice as it was meant to be seen by Gondola

Undeniably romantic and irresistibly unique, touring Venice’s canals by Gondola is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the city. Cruise your way past buildings that are more than 1,200 years old, view enchanting architecture and artistic creations, and enjoy what may be a once in a lifetime experience.

Stay the night in La Cueva for two in La Gomera

Clifftop hotel Jardin Tecina in La Gomera offers a unique experience La Cueva for Two, a cave just for couples. Located in a natural cave overlooking the ocean and mountains, spend a relaxing evening together, be served with a 3-course gourmet dinner by zipwire, accompanied by the sound of the waves and the sight of twinkling stars.

Feel like a Hollywood Star on a water limousine tour of Lake Como

Camera ready, wide lens set, you’re ready to take in the views of stunning lakeside mountains, exquisite villas and idyllic villages as you cruise the Lake Como shoreline by water limousine or traditional ferry. Optional extras include a 3-course dinner, a visit to the picturesque waterfront village of Bellagio, or a private tour around the lake: the lake’s your oyster!

Take an authentic Italian cooking class in Puglia

Pasta making in Puglia is perhaps the most quintessential of Italian experiences. Masseria Montenapoleone is a converted rural 17th century farmhouse, where authentic Italian cooking classes hosted by owner Giuliano. Walk in the hotel’s gardens to discover local produce, then learn how to create fresh focaccia and pasta with a crisp glass of wine to match: all amongst the jaw-dropping setting of the Puglian countryside.

Italian food lover? Discover the best traditional Italian food.

Spot dolphins and whales in Tenerife

Unique amongst marine mammals for their superior intelligence, cheerful disposition and altruism, dolphins are some the most popular sea animals. Owing to its exceptional location Tenerife, a lush Canary Island we’ve always loved, is blessed with the presence of many visiting dolphins making it the ideal location to spot these adorable mammals.

Discover Eden on earth at Plitvice Lakes National Park

It’s difficult to put the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park into words. Winding footpaths lead the way through 16 crystalline lakes connected by cascading waterfalls. As you meander through the myriad greens and blues, butterflies and colourful flowers paint a pretty picture indeed. Top tip – You can visit all year round, but Autumn can be particularly beautiful with red and rose hues taking centre stage.

Experience an open air opera in Verona

The ancient Roman amphitheatre in Verona delivers outstanding acoustics, and the annual Arena Opera Festival features unique and sensational opera, ballet and concert events. As the sun sets, 15000 audience members will be dazzled by the scale, design and energy of the productions. Next year sees an acclaimed Carmen as well as Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida, set in ancient Egypt.

Planning a Verona city break? Read our top 5 things to do.

Step in to JK Rowling’s imagination at Livaria Lello Bookshop

Porto is rumoured to be the inspiration behind JK Rowling’s much-loved Harry Potter series, and Livaria Lello Bookstore is like stepping straight into her imagination. One of the oldest and most beautiful bookstores in the world, its inviting neo-gothic façade leads to an interior of wooden ceilings and walls covered by shelf after shelf of books. In the centre is the rich red spiralling stairway, leading to the first floor where the famous author enjoyed a cup of coffee and the magic began.

Follow the Levadas into Madeira’s verdant mountains

Levadas, roughly translating to carriageways, are the extraordinary, centuries-old irrigation systems which bring fresh water down from the mountains to the low-lying communities in Madeira. To follow the pathways that run next to the winding canal-like levadas is to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of nature. Admire the unspoilt forestry, blossoming flowers and incredible waterfalls found in Laurel Forest.

Sing along to ‘Mamma Mia!’ in Skopelos

Walk in the footsteps of Colin Firth & Meryl Streep in Skopelos, the location for the film Mamma Mia! Visit the church of Agios Ioannis in Kastri where the wedding scene was shot, relax on the pristine Kastani beach, as seen on screen, and sing Our Last Summer whilst admiring the Hollywood quality view from Nisi Glisteri. You can also stay in the hotel chosen by the film stars. The Skopelos Village Suite Hotel is a traditional, home-from-home style family run hotel that’s just a short walk from beautiful Skopelos Town.

Get home inspiration in the souks of Marrakech

A trip to the souks of Marrakech is certainly a feast for the senses; the smell of spices, the whistles of the snake charmers, and the ancient tales of the Berber storytellers. Winding through its labyrinthine streets you’ll find ornate lanterns, plush rugs and the finest quality leathers for a price that is next to nothing – if you’re willing to haggle. With its bold colours, unique patterns and warming effect, it’s no surprise that Moroccan décor has found its way into many of our homes.

Practice your swing at the best golf courses in the world

Top professionals and course architects regard the Algarve as an elite golfing venue. It’s home to a wide variety of formidable championship courses. With more than 300 days of sun each year, the long golf season attracts players of different abilities from around the world. Some of the finest courses can be found in Quinta do Lago and Vilamoura where hotels may have their own courses, academies and PGA coaching.

Faraglioni at your feet: take a chairlift to Anacapri’s summit

Glide gently from the picturesque village of Anacapri to the 589m summit of Monte Solaro by cable car. Feel like you’re floating through the lush forestry and be blown away by the panoramic ocean views.  Monte Solaro is a panoramic point where you can see everything from the dotted white boats in Capri’s harbours, the iconic Faraglioni rock formations, the entrance to the Blu Cave, and even further afield across the Sorrentine Peninsula. You will feel on top of the world.

Camp the night in a traditional Berber tent at Kasbah Tamadot

Perched on the edge of a valley at the foot of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains is Sir Richard Branson’s magical retreat, Kasbah Tamadot. Of the property’s 28 rooms, 10 are traditional Berber tents offering a luxurious experience like no other. Star gaze by night, and in the morning wake to utter peace, fresh mountain air, and stunning valley views in the shadow of the snow-capped mountains beyond.

Travel in style and luxury aboard the Belmond Simplon-Orient-Express

Treat yourself to a truly decadent adventure. The wonderful way to celebrate any occasion, the Simplon-Orient-Express offers passengers the chance to travel in unparalleled luxury. Exceptional service, lavish furnishings and sublime views over majestic countryside, combine to make your journey an outstanding work of art. The Orient Express can be taken between London and Venice, Verona or Vienna.

Winelands Tour

Experience some of South Africa’s best wineries on a private tour of the Cape Winelands. Visit three prestigious wineries in Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek to sample wine, Fairview Farmer’s Cheese and Muratie Port and chocolate, as well as enjoying a ride on the Franschhoek Wine tram to Rickety Bridge. The day also teaches about how the combination of climate, soil, and grape varietals create the unique wines for which South Africa is known.

Thailand’s floating markets

A journey brimming with the colours, sights and sounds of the Far East. Offering the perfect escape from the urban streetscape, board a longtail boat and sail along the longest canal in Thailand, Damnoen Saduak, to see the floating markets of farmer’s fare and flowers and sample the finest flavours of Thailand with lunch in a local restaurant. Visit railway bridge number 277, otherwise known as the Bridge on the River Kwai.

Malaysia’s orangutans

Enjoy the incredible opportunity of watching stunning auburn coloured apes weave nests of twigs in trees, play rough and tumble in the jungle, and swing through 10,000 acres of rainforest on the path to the rehabilitation into the wild. There are hornbills, songbirds and monkeys too, but it’s the endangered, rescued orangutans of the Sepilok Centre who really steal the show.

Vespa tours of Ho Chi Minh

Vanish on a vintage Vespa into the backstreets of Ho Chi Minh to see an iconic city on an iconic vehicle. Ride alongside city dwellers on the busy streets, visit food markets with their authentic roadside stalls and local coffee shops, whilst taking in the buzz of this extraordinary melting pot of so many different cultures.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Enjoy a rewarding and magical start to the day with a sunrise you’ll never forget. Connect with the spiritual atmosphere of Bali’s most emblematic mountain through the early morning mist as it lifts to reveal truly splendid views of lakes and volcanoes in the Kintamani area of outstanding natural beauty. After observing the sunrise at the summit, it’s time for a well-earned breakfast.

Desert safaris

The untouched sand dunes of the United Arab Emirates provide the perfect boundless playground for a multitude of desert safaris. There are traditional rides on camels and displays of falconry. There are the rollercoaster antics of dune-bashing in 4×4 Land Cruisers, as well as motorised quad bikes and pedal-power mountain bikes with very fat tyres to tackle the desert landscape.

Mauritius’ Black River Gorges National Park

There’s more than world-class beaches and tempting turquoise waters to Mauritius. Delve into 18 miles of hiking trails in a canopy of what is regarded as the island’s last pristine section of forest. When hiking the trails in the forested uplands, look up in the rustling branches for pink pigeons and Mauritius kestrels and a chance of spotting mischievous monkeys at play.

Seychelles’ exploration

Known as the heart of Praslin Island, the Vallee-de-Mai Nature Reserve has also been described as the Garden of Eden owing to its secluded and mystical nature. This primeval forest is home to no fewer than 1400 trees of the Coco de Mar, the largest seed in the world. It’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site which performs important work in conserving the unique plant and animal diversity of the Seychelles.