5 Places to Travel to Next Holiday

Planning your next vacation and looking for some inspiration? Here are our top 5 holiday destinations that promise unforgettable experiences.

Jump ahead

• Bali, Indonesia

• Kyoto, Japan

• Santori, Greece

• Paris, France

• Queenstown, New Zealand

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a paradise that offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape, thrilling adventures, or a deep dive into a vibrant culture, Bali delivers. Picture yourself lounging on sun-kissed beaches, exploring lush green rice terraces, or immersing in the island's rich spiritual traditions.

Experiences

• Ubud's Rice Terraces: Wander through the iconic Tegallalang rice terraces and marvel at the intricate irrigation system used for centuries.

• Seminyak's Beach Clubs: Spend your afternoons and evenings at trendy beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails, great music, and stunning sunsets.

• Uluwatu Temple: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this ancient sea temple offers spectacular views and mesmerizing Kecak dance performances at sunset.

Some places you can stay

Ubud

• Vibe: Cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, surrounded by lush jungles and rice terraces.

• Accommodation Types: Boutique hotels, luxury resorts, eco-lodges.

• Highlights: Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud Art Market, yoga retreats.

• Personal Touch: Staying in Ubud feels like a retreat into nature and tradition. It's perfect for those who love serene environments and cultural experiences.

Seminyak

• Vibe: Trendy and upscale, known for its vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques, and beach clubs.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury villas, stylish hotels, beachfront resorts.

• Highlights: Seminyak Beach, Potato Head Beach Club, high-end shopping, fine dining.

• Personal Touch: If you're looking for a blend of luxury, fun, and relaxation, Seminyak is ideal. The beach clubs offer an incredible atmosphere for sunset views and cocktails.

Canggu

• Vibe: Bohemian and laid-back, popular among surfers and digital nomads.

• Accommodation Types: Hip hostels, villas, boutique guesthouses.

• Highlights: Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach, cool cafes, and coworking spaces.

• Personal Touch: Canggu’s eclectic vibe makes it feel like a community of like-minded travellers. It’s a great spot for surfing and enjoying a relaxed lifestyle.

Nusa Dua

• Vibe: Family-friendly and luxurious, with pristine beaches and high-end resorts.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels.

• Highlights: Nusa Dua Beach, water sports, Bali Collection shopping complex.

• Personal Touch: Nusa Dua is all about indulgence and comfort. The clean beaches and calm waters make it perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed, all-inclusive vacation.

Jimbaran

• Vibe: Peaceful and romantic, famous for its seafood and stunning sunsets.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury resorts, beachfront villas.

• Highlights: Jimbaran Beach, seafood restaurants, close to Uluwatu Temple.

• Personal Touch: Dining on the beach with freshly grilled seafood as the sun sets is an unforgettable experience. Jimbaran’s tranquil atmosphere is perfect for couples.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a city where the past and present harmoniously coexist. Its historic charm, stunning temples, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Japan's rich heritage. Walking through Kyoto feels like stepping back in time, with every corner revealing a new piece of history.

Experiences

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine is a photographer's dream and a profoundly spiritual experience.

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Zen Buddhist temple, covered in gold leaf, is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The reflection of the temple in the surrounding pond is simply breathtaking.

• Cherry Blossom Season: Visit in spring to witness the city bathed in pink as cherry blossoms bloom, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.

Some places you can stay

Gion

• Vibe: Historic and traditional, known for geishas and teahouses.

• Accommodation Types: Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), boutique hotels.

• Highlights: Gion Corner, Hanamikoji Street, Yasaka Shrine.

• Personal Touch: Staying in Gion feels like stepping back in time. The narrow streets and traditional wooden machiya houses create a captivating atmosphere, especially when you spot a geisha.

Arashiyama

• Vibe: Scenic and serene, famous for its bamboo grove and river.

• Accommodation Types: Ryokans, guesthouses.

• Highlights: Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge.

• Personal Touch: Arashiyama’s natural beauty is breathtaking. Waking up to the sound of the river and exploring the bamboo forest early in the morning is an enchanting experience.

Higashiyama

• Vibe: Cultural and picturesque, home to many of Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines.

• Accommodation Types: Traditional inns, modern hotels.

• Highlights: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets.

• Personal Touch: Walking through the historic streets of Higashiyama is a journey through Kyoto’s past. The area’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage is awe-inspiring.

Downtown Kyoto (Shijo/Karasuma)

• Vibe: Lively and convenient, great for shopping and dining.

• Accommodation Types: Modern hotels, serviced apartments.

• Highlights: Nishiki Market, Shijo Street shopping, Pontocho Alley.

• Personal Touch: Staying downtown puts you in the heart of the action. It’s perfect for those who enjoy vibrant city life with easy access to Kyoto’s attractions.

Kyoto Station Area

• Vibe: Practical and central, ideal for transportation and accessibility.

• Accommodation Types: Large hotels, budget-friendly options.

• Highlights: Kyoto Tower, Kyoto Railway Museum, shopping centres.

• Personal Touch: This area is convenient for travellers, offering easy access to transportation and numerous amenities. It’s a practical choice for exploring both Kyoto and surrounding areas.

Santori, Greece

Known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and azure waters, Santorini is the quintessential Greek island escape. It's the perfect destination for honeymooners, solo travellers, and families alike, offering a mix of relaxation, history, and culinary delights.

Experiences

• Oia's Sunset Views: Oia is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. Find a cozy spot in one of the many cliffside cafes and watch as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.

• Black Sand Beaches: Relax on the unique black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa, where the volcanic sands contrast beautifully with the crystal-clear waters.

• Ancient Ruins of Akrotiri: Explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Minoan city, often referred to as the "Pompeii of the Aegean," which offers fascinating insights into the island's history.

Some places you can stay

Fira

• Vibe: Bustling and vibrant, the capital of Santorini with a mix of traditional and modern.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, budget-friendly options.

• Highlights: Caldera views, lively nightlife, museums, shopping.

• Personal Touch: Staying in Fira means you're at the heart of the action. The bustling streets and vibrant nightlife are balanced by stunning caldera views and cultural attractions.

Oia

• Vibe: Picturesque and romantic, known for its iconic sunsets and blue-domed churches.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury suites, cave hotels, charming B&Bs.

• Highlights: Sunset views, Amoudi Bay, art galleries, boutique shopping.

• Personal Touch: Oia feels like stepping into a postcard. The sunsets here are truly magical, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples and honeymooners.

Imerovigli

• Vibe: Tranquil and scenic, often called the "Balcony to the Aegean."

• Accommodation Types: Upscale hotels, cliffside villas, boutique accommodations.

• Highlights: Skaros Rock, panoramic caldera views, serene environment.

• Personal Touch: Imerovigli offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views. It’s ideal for those who want a quieter experience without sacrificing the beauty of the caldera.

Firostefani

• Vibe: Charming and relaxed, located just a short walk from Fira.

• Accommodation Types: Mid-range hotels, boutique inns, luxury suites.

• Highlights: Caldera views, close proximity to Fira, peaceful ambience.

• Personal Touch: Firostefani combines the best of both worlds: close enough to enjoy Fira’s amenities but far enough to enjoy a more relaxed pace. The views are spectacular, and the vibe is serene.

Paris, France

Paris is the epitome of romance and culture, offering world-class museums, exquisite cuisine, and an ambiance that is unmatched. Every street, cafe, and monument tells a story, making it a city that you can visit over and over again and always discover something new.

Experiences

• Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this iconic landmark. Take an elevator ride to the top for a panoramic view of the city.

• Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

• Seine River Cruise: Glide along the Seine on a boat tour and see the city's most famous sights, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Musée d'Orsay, from a unique perspective.

Some places you can stay

Le Marais

• Vibe: Historic and trendy, known for its narrow medieval streets, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

• Accommodation Types: Boutique hotels, stylish apartments.

• Highlights: Place des Vosges, Musée Picasso, shopping on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois.

• Personal Touch: Staying in Le Marais feels like stepping into a lively and artistic enclave. The mix of old-world charm and contemporary style is enchanting, making it perfect for art lovers and fashion enthusiasts.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

• Vibe: Elegant and intellectual, famous for its literary cafes, art galleries, and historic sites.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury hotels, charming guesthouses.

• Highlights: Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Luxembourg Gardens.

• Personal Touch: Saint-Germain-des-Prés exudes an old-school Parisian elegance. Walking through its streets feels like following the footsteps of famous writers and artists, offering a truly classic Paris experience.

Latin Quarter

• Vibe: Bohemian and lively, home to universities, bookshops, and vibrant nightlife.

• Accommodation Types: Budget-friendly hotels, eclectic hostels.

• Highlights: Sorbonne University, Shakespeare and Company, Panthéon.

• Personal Touch: The Latin Quarter’s youthful energy and intellectual atmosphere are invigorating. It’s a great place to experience the academic heart of Paris and enjoy lively cafes and bars.

Montmartre

• Vibe: Romantic and artistic, perched on a hill with winding streets and stunning views.

• Accommodation Types: Quaint hotels, artist lofts.

• Highlights: Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Place du Tertre, Moulin Rouge.

• Personal Touch: Montmartre’s bohemian past is still palpable, with artists painting in the streets and charming cafes at every corner. The views from Sacré-Cœur are breathtaking, making it a dreamy spot for romantics.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is an adventurer's paradise, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From bungee jumping to serene lake cruises, this vibrant town offers a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and peaceful retreats.

Experiences

• Bungee Jumping: Experience the thrill of a lifetime by jumping off the historic Kawarau Bridge, the world's first commercial bungee jumping site.

• Milford Sound Cruises: Take a scenic cruise through Milford Sound, where you'll be awed by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

• Wine Tasting in Central Otago: Explore the nearby wine region and sample some of New Zealand's finest Pinot Noir while enjoying the picturesque vineyard landscapes.

Some places you can stay

Central Queenstown

• Vibe: Lively and convenient, close to the town’s main attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

• Accommodation Types: Luxury hotels, boutique lodges, serviced apartments.

• Highlights: Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Gondola, Queenstown Gardens, bustling nightlife.

• Personal Touch: Staying in the heart of Queenstown means you’re always in the midst of the action, with easy access to dining, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. The lake views are mesmerising.

Frankton

• Vibe: Suburban and family-friendly, close to the airport and shopping centres.

• Accommodation Types: Family hotels, budget motels, holiday parks.

• Highlights: Queenstown Airport, Remarkables Park, Kawarau Falls, easy access to supermarkets and amenities.

• Personal Touch: Frankton offers a quieter stay than central Queenstown but is still conveniently located. It’s great for families or travellers looking for a more relaxed environment with easy access to essentials.

Arrowtown

• Vibe: Historic and charming, with a quaint village feel and rich gold rush history.

• Accommodation Types: Boutique hotels, historic inns, bed and breakfasts.

• Highlights: Arrowtown Village, Arrow River, Lakes District Museum, autumn foliage.

• Personal Touch: Staying in Arrowtown feels like stepping back in time. The historic buildings and autumn colours create a picturesque and cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who appreciate history and a slower pace.

Fernhill

• Vibe: Residential and peaceful, with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.

• Accommodation Types: Self-catering apartments, luxury lodges, holiday homes.

• Highlights: Fernhill Loop Track, Bob’s Peak, quiet neighbourhood with breathtaking views.

• Personal Touch: Fernhill offers tranquillity with the bonus of some of the best views in Queenstown. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful retreat while close to the town centre.

Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you're looking to relax on a beach, explore ancient temples, or dive into local culture, these top picks will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!