Unsurprisingly like every year during the summer period, the days in the office just seem to get longer, and the work, remarkably, more tiresome?
Whether you’re dreaming of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, a villa in the mountains or the ultimate city trip, we’ve put together a list of destinations that come out on top in 2019, and that might just be the light at the end of the very dull tunnel.
This years’ hotlist
1. Goreme (Cappadocia), Turkey
Historically a farming village nestled in the hills, Goreme’s fictional like landscape attracts travellers from near and far who fall for its golden valleys and winding streets. Its open-air museum, a testament to Byzantine life, cave hotels and hot air balloon flight from Cappadocia all fall part of its unique charm. We thoroughly recommend!
2. Santorini, Greece
Crescent-shaped Santorini in the southernmost part of the Cyclades, also termed ‘Thira’ in Greek, is actually a group of islands and an active volcano surrounded by the Aegean Sea. Its white-washed buildings, soaring cliffs, stunning sunsets, picture-perfect panoramas and sandy beaches are a must-see if only once!
3. The Highlands, Scotland
Often considered a wild and romantic landscape, The Highlands truly are the Scotland of dreams. Their tumultuous history, majestic mountains, eerie castles, vast skies and stunning geography just beg to be explored. Whether you’re looking to discover mystifying lochs and islands, dolphins swimming off the coast or Scotland’s most iconic mountain and the highest in the British Isles, Ben Nevis you may have difficulty getting back to the real world.
4. Lake Como, Italy
Famed for its calming and elegant backdrop, the wishbone-shaped 20-mile-long Lake Como is surrounded by a spectacular landscape of pine-swathed mountains in northern Italy’s Lombardy region. Its scenic walks and beautiful views make it a popular destination for those in search of Italian charm and beauty. Long lazy days discovering public gardens, historic villas and its collection of rainbow-coloured towns and villages are a must.
5. Ouarzazate, Morocco
The perfect stop-off point between the striking dunes in the east and the vibrant city of Marrakech, Ouarzazate’s iconic landscape has most recently seen it featured in the likes of Game of Thrones. It is the ultimate destination for those wanting to explore the gateway to the Sahara, take a desert tour, spend an afternoon at an oasis and catch the most beautiful sunrise and sunsets, arguably, in North Africa.
6. Tohoku, Japan
Known for its mountains, castles, hot springs, countryside, samurai residences, cherry blossom and lakes, the north east region of Tohoku offers travellers rich history and some of the most scenic views in Japan. Its unforgiving winters see the Snow Country on the western coast chalk up some of the highest snowfall totals in the world, perfect for skiing.
7. Muscat, Oman
Oman’s capital, in contrast to its more ostentatious Emirati neighbours like Abu Dhabi and Dubai is distinctly modest and celebrated for its beautiful souks and modern architecture. Backed by the Hajar mountains, the port city of Muscat, on the Gulf of Oman, is perfect for endless desert treks at sunrise and offers evening promenades along the Corniche, dolphin spotting, some of the freshest seafood, and ample Omani hospitality.
8. Havana, Cuba
Havana is known for its music, art, culture, history, eclectic architecture and national attractions sparking interest from travellers across the globe all year round. The city’s mesmerising neighbourhoods and distinct cuisine make it one of the ultimate city trips.
9. The Azores, Portugal
A cluster of islands located in the mid-Atlantic on the nexus of European, African and American tectonic plates, the Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, characterised by spectacular landscapes, lush forests, blue lakes, unique caves and grottos, green pastures and piping hot springs. Its distinct fishing villages, hiking and whale watching opportunities and water sport and diving amenities make it a go to location!
10. French Polynesia
The destination of choice for those seeking beach, sun, sea and true serenity, French Polynesia is located midway between California and Australia and comprises more than 100 islands stretched across the South Pacific. It is a world of white and black sandy beaches, mountains, gigantic waterfalls, rocky backcountry and coral-fringed lagoons. Swimsuit as hand luggage anyone?
