In previous Decembers, when times were a little more normal in the travel world, I would review the year, making note of destinations, hotels and experiences that I would be recommending to clients for their following year’s travel adventures.
Fortunately, I now have a lovely website that enables me to proudly share such tips, as well as feedback from clients themselves.
The continuing influence of the pandemic has increased interest in several destinations where tourists can find space and seek quality hotels with a good track record of handling Covid.
Over recent months several clients have enjoyed travels to destinations including Mauritius, Greece, Cyprus, various Caribbean Islands, Dubai and my favourite place, Canada.
It’s hard to predict what 2022 holds for us but I am hopeful of finally managing those long-haul holidays that have proved elusive over the last couple of years.
Here are a few tips about destinations and hotels that you may wish to consider for the year ahead...
The Caribbean
The islands of Barbados, Antigua and St Lucia are always popular picks but with interest high following 007’s 'No Time to Die', don't forget Jamaica with its new Sandals properties and beautiful Sandals Negril where I had my own holiday. The luxury all-inclusive couples resort specialists are also opening their first hotel in pretty Curaçao in April and as an island not in the hurricane belt, you should be guaranteed lovely weather all year round.
The Indian Ocean
Being isolated on a paradise Indian Ocean Island has always had its appeal, but perhaps even more so now. Mauritius is popular with couples and families alike, with fantastic all-inclusive resort options, and many clients have already booked the Maldives and Seychelles for next year. Not everyone can afford a luxury over the water villa, but I am confident of finding solutions to suit most budgets.
If you are looking for something extremely special to make up for those missed holidays, the Royal Palm in Mauritius may be just the ticket.
Europe
If a long-haul holiday is not for you just yet, there are some exquisite destinations closer to home.
You may, like me, have been gripped by the latest series of the BBC’s Amazing Hotels programme and suitably inspired to add Madeira or one of my personal favourites, the stunning Istrian Riviera region of Croatia, to your list.
The Canary Islands, Cyprus, Portugal and Greece are also in favour.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE has a justified reputation for high-end spotless luxury hotels, many of which have upped their game even further to ensure maximum Covid safety and comfort for guests.
For resort style hotels, you can’t go wrong with a stay on the Palm in Dubai. If relaxation with the occasional adventure to the sights and shops is your aim, then either Dukes or Anantara The Palm, where I have stayed, are good choices and Caesars Resort is a great family option.
If you prefer to be where the action is on the Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), the JA Ocean View Hotel is splendid, and the Palace Downtown is great for the Dubai Mall and Burj Kalifa.
One of the Gulf’s best kept secrets is the nearby Ajman, located on a pristine natural stretch of coast and home to the top-quality Hotel Fairmont, where I will hopefully get to and report from soon, after having to cancel my trip twice so far.
Canada
Canada remains my top selling destination and lots of supportive clients are raring to go in 2022 having had their trips moved from recent times.
There is something for everyone with the allure of its vast unspoilt wilderness, spectacular scenery, captivating wildlife and some of the world’s most accessible viewing opportunities.
Remember the unexplored parts of Eastern Canada and Newfoundland are perfect for a unique adventure - it's a place I can’t wait to return to.
Wherever you would like to head in 2022, please contact me for a chat to discuss your plans.
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