Best Holiday Destinations in the World
The most popular holiday destinations for UK travellers are Spain, especially Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca. The Canary Islands are also a big draw with direct flights from the UK.
Egypt’s historic treasures are timeless, from the gleaming gold death mask of Tutankhamen to the pyramids. Take a Nile cruise to explore them in luxury.
Maldives
A tropical island paradise with crystal clear waters, lustrous white beaches, and exotic marine life. It is one of the best holiday destinations in the world for its heavenly views and tranquil atmosphere.
December is a great time to visit the Maldives, with sunny days and calm seas for snorkelling and diving. The resorts’ private islands and lagoons are at their prettiest, and you can enjoy the opulent water villas that come complete with infinity pools.
For a luxury experience, stay at the opulent St. Regis Maldives at Kuda Huraa, where you’ll be completely detached from the outside world. This resort offers a full detox stay with no television and is ideal for honeymooners.
India
India is an all-rounder in terms of family vacation destinations as it offers everything from beaches to snow-capped mountains and even lush forests. Here are some of the best holiday spots in the country that are perfect for all seasons.
The capital city of the seven sisters – Meghalaya, Shillong is famed for its ancient traditions and stunning natural attractions including well-manicured gardens and mesmeric waterfalls. Its enchanting hill station views create a reviving atmosphere.
Agra is another one of the most popular holidays in India as it is home to the iconic Taj Mahal. Besides, it has other attractions like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri to offer its visitors.
Japan
With rich tradition, Japan has a lot to offer visitors. Despite wars and natural disasters, much of this heritage remains intact in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo.
Kyoto is a top city for exploring temples and the culture that surrounds them. This includes tea ceremonies, kimonos and more. Kyoto also hosts many of Japan’s most famous monuments including the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari shrine and the Todai-ji temple which is the world’s largest wooden building.
Matsumoto is another must-visit. It’s dominated by a castle that dates back more than 500 years and features a fascinating inner keep. It’s also surrounded by alpine scenery.
The Hawaiian Islands
Pristine beaches, magnificent peaks offering panoramic views and delectable Hawaiian cuisine make the state of Hawaii one of the best holiday destinations in the world. Cosmopolitan capital Honolulu offers luxury resorts, cocktail bars and watersports, as well as historic sites and a shopping mall.
The Big Island brims with outdoor activities; hike Volcanoes National Park and see molten lava, or drive the stunning Road to Hana to admire lush rainforest and black sand beaches. Kauai, the ‘Garden Isle’ is a favourite choice for nature lovers and honeymooners. The island is also home to luxury resorts and beautiful beaches – including Poipu Beach. Wake up to watch spectacular sunrises at Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock). The western side of the island is a former whaling port with many historical charms.
Turkey
Turkey has always been a favourite destination for Mediterranean sunshine and mouth-watering cuisine, but record affordability is making it more popular than ever. In Istanbul, historic Mosque domes and exotic bazaars give this bustling metropolis a magical glow.
Further south, sand and sea beckon at upscale resorts like Kusadasi where roof-terrace restaurants serve smooth jazz and the beach is backed by endangered Caretta Caretta turtles. Or, stay at a boutique hotel in Kalkan for a luxurious break that’s as romantic as it is relaxing.
Cappadocia’s rocky landscape – sculpted by wind erosion into ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations – is otherworldly. See the cliff-top churches and underground towns on a hot air balloon trip, or join a group tour to see the mesmerising dancing dervishes.
America
America is a country of unique vacation spots that offer something for every kind of traveler. There are mountain resort towns surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes, otherworldly deserts, and bustling cities with live music, history, and art.
Spot majestic wildlife in the national parks of Yellowstone, where grizzly bears roam the wild or head to a tranquil valley for a view of grazing bison and moose. Alternatively, visit Rocky Mountain National Park to witness breathtaking hikes, thrilling climbing routes, and one of the highest roads in the world.
Paris, the City of Love, is a bucket list destination known for its landmark museums and galleries, delicious food, lavish culture, and spectacular architecture. best holiday destinations