HOW TO CHOOSE A DESTINATION FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Once we can all travel Internationally again, there are so many places to go! We share how you can choose a destination for your next trip!

While escapism has become the travel industry’s latest buzzword, our list celebrates your favorite pastimes, rather than escaping them.

Whether your dream holiday is bungy jumping off a precarious bridge or eating your way around town, these places are sure to inspire your curiosities and fuel your passions. 

Additionally, we’ve picked some of the best destinations off the beaten path, giving you a unique insight into the culture, food, nature, and more. 

Things to Remember Before You Travel

Much of pre-travel is about preparation. Take a look at our handy tips below. 

• Familiarize Yourself with the Culture: Taking a vacation is a privilege. Respecting the cultures, language, and customs of your chosen location is a must. 
• Check Your Paperwork: Forgetting your passport at the airport is no one’s idea of a good time. Before you leave, make sure you’ve double-checked flight times, how you’ll get to your accommodation, emergency contact numbers, travel insurance, and other essentials. 
• Pack Appropriately: A poorly-packed suitcase can make or break a holiday. Besides dressing appropriately for the weather, it’s important to think about how practical your items are. Sunscreen, plasters, good socks, pain killers, tissues, and a phone charger are just a few items to consider. 
• Research Your Destination: As well as researching information on holiday activities, make sure you check entry requirements for your destination. Some locations may require visas and vaccinations. 

For history lovers: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic heartbeat of Vietnam. This urban sprawl is steeped in history from the Chan Empire to the Vietnam War. 

Pre-17th century, the city was ruled by numerous kingdoms including the Khmer, and many Buddhist temples are still scattered around the capital, some dating from the 4th century AD. The cityscape also displays shadows of its post-colonial past with buildings such as the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.

The famous Mekong River is only a few hours south; it’s well known as a historic trading spot with plenty of floating markets. 

We have the perfect 3 weeks in Vietnam Itinerary for those looking to explore beyond Ho Chi Minh City.

Historic Sights in Ho Chi Minh City

• Independence Palace
• War Remnants Museum 
• Cu Chi Tunnels 
• Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
• Thien Hau Temple

For Nature Enthusiasts: Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju is the largest island in South Korea and is a natural hotspot, quite literally. At the centre of the island lies a dormant volcano, Hallasan. Its extensive lava tubes system is a UNESCO site, and visitors can walk through Manjanggul caves to view huge lava columns.

On the Southside of the island lies Jeongbang Waterfall, where you can bask in beautiful views of the East China Sea, as well as watch local women dive for shellfish. 

Volcanoes, craters, beaches, and forests are just a few of the landscapes this unsuspecting island has to offer. 

Top Natural Interests

• Manjanggul caves
• Jeongbang Waterfall
• Jungmun Beach
• Hike Mt. Hallasan
• Jusangjeolli Cliff

For Adrenaline Junkies: Queenstown, New Zealand

Known by some as the world’s outdoor capital, New Zealand offers a plethora of heart-pumping activities. And Queenstown, in particular, is one location where outdoor enthusiasts thrive. 

With lakes, mountains, and glaciers within reach, the town offers versatility for visitors. Choose between bungy jumping off Ben Lomond, jet boating through Skippers Canyon, rafting through UNESCO-listed Mount Aspiring, and much more. 

The picturesque town itself is nestled next to Lake Wakatipu and is the perfect respite from a packed day of outdoor activities. 

Top Outdoor Activities

• Mountain biking 
• Ziplining
• Paragliding 
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Horse trekking

For Foodies: Oaxaca, Mexico 

Tamales, tacos al pastor, mole, tostadas; need we say more? Oaxaca is the epicenter of Mexican cuisine. Sitting in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, this city is famous for its pale and gooey Oaxacan cheese, as well as its artisan chocolate. 

The city centre is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting colorful architecture, art galleries, and several delicious food stalls, markets, and restaurants. There are many Oaxaca tours available for those that want to explore all areas of the city and beyond.

Stroll down Calle Porfirio Diaz and grab brunch at the esteemed Boulenc, before admiring the Templo de Santo Domingo further down the street. From there, you might be able to steal a scent of Rito Chocolateria, or better yet a taste.  

For authentic Mexican mole with a vegan twist, Hierba Dulce is a must. One of the best ways of tasting the city is by exploring yourself or taking a food tour. 

Top Food Spots to Visit:

• Hierba Dulce ($)
• Organic Harvest Market ($)
• Pisillo de Humo at Mercado 20 de Novembre ($)
• Boulenc ($$)
• Sabina Sabe ($$)

For Sun Worshippers: Zanzibar, Tanzania 

For those who consider the sun, sea, and sand as the ultimate holiday, Zanzibar won’t disappoint. 

Located just off the coast of Tanzania, this island offers glorious white sandy beaches and barrier reefs perfect for snorkeling. Despite its small size, the island has escaped overdevelopment, so crowding shouldn’t be an issue for visitors. 

Some of the best beaches are on the East side of the island, such as Paji and Matemwe. 

Additionally, there are clusters of smaller islands in this region that are easily accessible from Zanzibar. Mnemba Island, in particular, has rich marine life with over 600 species of coral fish, Green Sea Turtles, and even dolphins. 

Top Beaches in Zanzibar:

• Bwejuu Beach
• Matemwe Beach
• Nungwi Beach 
• Paji Beach 
• Mnemba Island