A new year brings with it new possibilities and as the world jumps back into travel whole-heartedly, this is the perfect time to expand your horizons and review that travel bucket list for 2022.
If you are planning your next great adventure, we have some exciting and exotic holiday destinations you should definitely consider putting on your travel bucket list!
Seychelles
A quick 5-hour direct flight from Johannesburg and now accessible to South Africans, Seychelles is the ultimate luxurious holiday experience where you can escape, unwind and relax on the one hand, while having the opportunity to partake in a thrilling outdoor adventure all in one place.
From treetop yoga and reconnecting with nature on a jungle hike through to adrenaline-fueled watersports and swinging from a flying trapeze. If you are looking for something extra special, the newly launched eco-chic Club Med Seychelles set in a preserved Marine Reserve, offers an exclusive stay on the private island of Sainte Anne.
Must-try: Take time to head out to Anse Source d’Argent to view the famous pink rocks.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is known as one of the most diverse of the Caribbean countries. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, it is a gorgeous tropical paradise boasting incredible landscapes, warm ocean waters and tropical weather.
To experience the best of the Dominican Republic, make a stop at the heavenly destination of Punta Cana – a place as exotic as its name! You will fall in love with its soft sandy beaches, marine life offering, unique landscapes and vibrant culture.
Must-drink: Mamajuana – a rum-based drink with wine, herbs, tree bark and honey.
Indonesia
Indonesia is famously known as a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. The home of the alarmingly large Komodo dragons and fascinating temples, it is a country that proudly showcases its spirituality in its practices, architecture and lifestyle.
When you visit Indonesia, Bali is the perfect tropical oasis to relax, re-set and re-energise. Aptly nicknamed The Land of the Gods, it is also a surfing and golfing paradise and will charm you with its natural beauty and exotic cultural charm and wonder.
Must-see: The enchanting and dramatic Kecak dance performed on a cliff, by Uluwatu temple.
Spain
If you love fine food, fun festivals, festive fairs and a bit of feisty flamenco then you will love Andalusia! Touted as the most beautiful region of Spain, it never fails to enchant with its unique Arabic heritage, Alhambra gardens and diverse culture and cuisine so its not hard to see why its made our travel bucket list.
To see more of its charm, explore Marbella – a charming city with stone-paved streets, colourful doors and the much-loved beach bars. Also well known for its stunning beaches it is the perfect place to play and enjoy leisure by the Mediterranean Sea.
Must-eat: As you hang out at a Chiringuitos (beach bar) try the delicious espetos de sardinas.
Mexico
Not that you need an excuse to visit the original home of Tequila, but if you are still in doubt, here are a few reasons why this destination must be top of your list. Amazing cuisine, people as warm as the climate and memorable beaches, volcanoes, deserts and jungles.
If you want an active holiday by the Caribbean Sea, head over to the Cancún Yucatán region that offers sunshine all year round. Spend days immersed in Mayan culture enjoying exhilarating watersports and nights partying it up island style.
Must-try: Soar the skies as you experience the flying trapeze at the all-inclusive resort Club Med Cancun Yucatan.
In a world that is so vast, with so many countries and cultures to explore, we urge (and dare) you to not just stick to your tried and tested routines and likes. Try something different and cast your sights further afield to lands unknown. Who knows, you might find your next new fav after adding these destinations to your travel bucket list.
