We’ve found the top 5 trending travel destinations for 2020. Get in there quick before everybody else!
This year, we’ve jetted off to Byron Bay, Okinawa, Kuala Lumpur, Mauritius and loads of other great travel spots across the globe. And while we haven’t made it to the end of the year quite yet, it makes sense to start pre-planning any future holidays in advance – hello, public holidays in Hong Kong 2020! The earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure an awesome deal and the chance to explore these incredible trending travel destinations for 2020. Here, luxury tour operator Lightfoot Travel reveal some of the places that will be getting us packing our cases next year.
Bhutan
Bhutan is in a league of its own. The last great Himalayan Kingdom does majestic dzongs, Buddhist beliefs, trekking trails and dramatic scenery to perfection. Head to Punakha Valley where you can try archery followed by a Bhutanese hot stone bath; discover monasteries in Paro; do the overnight Bumdra Trek and end your hike at the Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched 900 metres above ground. Cosy up in Gangtey Lodge with its breathtaking views and escape from the modern world. Alternatively, COMO Uma Punakha arguably boasts the best location in the Punakha valley and serves up tasty and innovation cuisine.
Jordan
Add a little Middle Eastern magic into your 2020 travel itinerary. For many, Jordan’s highlight is the lost city of Petra where 800 monuments are set in an archaeological city of just 100 square kilometres. Wander through cavernous chasms, exploring towering tombs and inspecting the facades with your expert guide. History lesson completed, relax with a float on the salty water of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. For a memorable stay, make Bedouin-style tented camp Bespoke Hideaways your bolthole. Located deep within the red-sand Wadi Rum desert, as night falls flickering candles set the scene for a mystical dinner under the stars.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has diversity in spades. While the sweeping beaches and leopard safaris are well worth your time, fans of a good old cuppa should opt for the Tea Country. Here, gorgeous swathes of green tropical plantations stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a private tour of one of the original tea factories that are still in use today, stroll around the grounds and enjoy the English-style gardens that bloom with rose bushes. Stay with Ceylon Tea Trails, a stunning set of Relais & Chateaux properties and former tea planter’s houses. Complete your trip at Amangalla, a charming hotel housed in the old Dutch Governor’s residence in Galle, and the perfect spot for afternoon tea and people-watching.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a true bucket list destination. Venture to the North Island for rich Maori history and culture, museums and galleries, and an insight into traditional weaving and carving. Hike farmlands and beaches, and eat, drink and shop in hip cities like artsy Wellington and cosmopolitan Auckland.
For more hair-raising activities head for the South Island, where mountain ranges, South Pacific swells and glacier-carved fjords will keep your adrenalin running. If you’d rather put your energy into wine tasting, the Sauvignon Blanc of the Marlborough region promises to keep thirst at bay. And after all that activity, escape to Matakauri Lodge with its incredible views out to Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountains.
Arctic
If you’re dreaming of the ultimate escape for 2020, it doesn’t get more remote than the Arctic. Against this spectacular icescape, some of the world’s natural phenomena take place: the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets; and the Polar Nights, where it never rises. In between, the Northern Lights play out a dancing light show across the Arctic sky.
Travel with Lindblad Expeditions and prepare for daily adventures from kayaking with seals to walking on the continent. And don’t worry about feeling lonely; onboard companions will include an expedition leader, veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, an undersea specialist, a video chronicler and a wellness specialist. If you’re looking for trending travel destinations in 2020 that are totally unique, then this is where you need to be.
