2021 Travel Inspiration: Top 21 Places To Add to your bucket list
2020 was not our year to travel, but it does not mean 2021 needs to be the same. People are itching to travel again as the love of travel is deeply rooted in our DNA. So, although travel isn’t as it was before, it hasn’t stopped us from dreaming of where we could possibly venture to next.
Here is a list of the top 21 places to consider visiting in 2021. It’s a combination of where our clients have been inquiring and booking for, as well as data from a list of other agencies that have compiled a list based on advance sales and client’s aspirations.
We know that the world of travel is never as it was before. But if you feel anything like us -with a pent-up demand to travel that we lost in 2020, and with the hope of the vaccine perhaps easing restrictions greatly, then fingers crossed, 2021 will be a big year with big plans!
TOP 21 DESTINATIONS:
1.MALDIVES
We have always loved the Maldives, that is no secret. It was our top-selling destination before the world changed and it seems that this has remained a constant. Why? Well besides the obvious of it looking like a perfectly photoshopped picture, but in real life, it’s also easy to travel to. You remain on one island, at one hotel, so clients feel there isn’t much risk. Also, the hotels are doing the COVID test required to return to South Africa, at the hotel. It’s always been perfect for honeymooners but now more than ever it’s a destination we highly recommend as resorts are emptier, so you really get a romantic, quiet getaway (feedback we’ve received from our clients on a recent trip to the Maldives for honeymoon)
2. SERENGETI, TANZANIA
The Serengeti hosts the second largest terrestrial mammal migration in the world, which makes it one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, and as one of the ten natural travel wonders of the world. Clients are wanting wide open spaces, and this is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the animal kingdom and to reflect on your place in the environment.
3. ZANZIBAR
We know many of our travellers are craving a relaxing getaway on a tropical beach after the year they’ve had, and Zanzibar offers just that. With direct flights on Mango chartered flights, this destination is another easy to get to option. Head on over, lie back, spend your day sipping on cocktails and let all of life’s worries melt away.
4. ANTARCTICA
From hot to cold, a destination covered with ice. Maybe all the time in lockdown has made us want to ticket off some serious bucket list destinations but this destination is being googled more than before. With possible sightings of humpback whales and colonies of penguins and seals, we completely understand why. This is a once in a lifetime type of trip that will give you some serious bragging rights.
5. CUSCO, PERU
A destination rich in history and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Peru is a land of colourful textiles, ancient ruins, and incredible culture
6. RWANDA
This destination offers a combination of nature, adventure, and culture. From trekking through the forest for gorillas to hanging out in Kigali, the vibrant capital, this African country offers a lot. It is a country that truly reinvigorates your soul and defines the spirit of travel. And I am sure you can agree, this is what we are all craving. This is a perfect bucket list destination if you are longing for your wanderlust and adventurous spirit to be satisfied. Don’t miss taking part in Gorilla trekking. Passes need to be booked long in advance as they only sell a certain number per month.
7. KENYA
Often a forgotten destination when looking for a beach getaway. Filled with white sandy beaches as well as classic savanna safaris, deserts and alpine snows; forests and open plains; the metropolis of Nairobi and colourful tribal cultures; freshwater lakes and coral reefs.
8. PORTO CERVO, ITALY
Clients are looking to visit cities that aren’t as popular and if Italy is still on your radar, but you don’t want to spend all your time in Rome, Venice or Florence then give this Sardinian Village a try. It has stunning white sand beaches and emerald-coloured water, which is surrounded by granite mountains. We recommend A day trip by private boat to Bonifacio in Corsica and lunch at Cala di Volpe. This really is a destination of mind-blowing scenery.
9. NORWEGIAN FJORDS
A land of natural beauty, plenty of waterfalls, glaciers, forests, mountains, medieval villages, ancient fishing villages- need we say more.
10. TURKEY
Direct flights on Turkish Airlines, an exchange rate very favourable to our South African Rand and COVID tests being done at the airport with the results back in a few hours make this another easy to travel to a destination for South Africans. Plus, it’s rich in culture and history and offers amazing food options. There will be something to entice everyone.
11. UMBRIA, ITALY
For those who have experienced Italy over and over again, Umbria offers a true countryside experience and is easily accessible from Rome, Florence, or Tuscany.
12. LOMBOK, INDONESIA
Lombok is the less widely known sister island to Indonesia’s crown jewel, Bali. It is less crowded and less expensive, while still offering gorgeous beaches. Lombok has been a popular hideaway for surfers for over 40 years, and now the rest of the world is catching on. So, go quickly, before it becomes too commercial.
13. EGYPT
There are no words to describe the feeling you get when you stand looking up at the majestic pyramids, and it’s something you will only understand once you stand there yourself. A land filled with amazing history makes this a must-see destination. Plus, we don’t mind that right now due to current situations it will be a lot quieter than usual.
14. GAANSBAAI, SOUTH AFRICA
We have so many beautiful spots to visit in our own country, why travel much further. This sleepy fishing town ticks the boxes if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle but still need some adventure on your trip. With the town offering Shark Cage Diving as an activity, and a high chance of you spotting great whites, it will get that heart rating pumping.
15. DUBAI
A destination with so much to offer, that we could write a whole blog just on this diverse city. A one-stop-shop for desert, beaches, culture, adrenaline, water parks, theme parks, shopping and fun. Combine it with another destination such as Maldives or Turkey or else you won’t be disappointed making your whole trip a Dubai adventure. We also love how Emirates makes it so easy to apply for your visas and COVID tests and are really looking after their passengers, offering to cover all their expenses in the unlikely situation they get COVID on their trip.
16. GOD’S WINDOW, SOUTH AFRICA
We have to mention a South African spot again, as it’s too beautiful to overlook. The name says it all- due to the sheer natural beauty contained in one view, it was named God’s window.
17. MOZAMBIQUE
Picture nothing as far as the eye can see, just miles and miles of beach, warm tropical water and lush tropical greenery. This is what Mozambique has to offer. Needing to unplug and get away from it all, we suggest Mozambique. Also, an amazing diving destination for the adventurous among us.
18. ETHIOPIA
Arid plains, spectacular mountains, lush green areas, and vast lakes define Ethiopia’s scenic landscapes. The country boasts 70% of the mountains on the African continent. Whether you are in the Semien Mountains or the Danakil Depression, every corner of the country offers a view pleasant to the eyes. Ethiopian airlines if also flying out of South Africa making it an easy to visit destination.
19. VICTORIA FALLS, ZAMBIA
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and we think it’s time we visit some of our amazing landmarks close to home vs jetting off to far-flung corners of the world.
20. BELARUS
It seems travellers are looking for a nature fix and in Belarus not only will you get a taste of Europe, but the amazing nature is one of Belarus’s main features. They are also known for delicious local sweets so all those with a sweet tooth, pack your bags and head on over to try something new.
21. NAMIBIA
Whenever you travel overland and use the desert ‘highways’ you’ll encounter endless deserts and dunes. You can literally drive for hours without meeting any cars, people, or wildlife while driving between two major cities. For the traveller wanting wide open spaces, less people and an overland adventure, Namibia is a great choice.
Which destination would you pick?
Contact us at My Travel Guy and let us be your travel guy and get your next adventure count down lined up. #mytravelguy
