The UK offers a vibrant culture of art that should allow you to get your fill on your next trip. This ranges from the indie scene of Manchester, the dreaming spires of Oxford, to the Beatles’ legacy of Liverpool.

Incredible landmarks, coastal views, and breathtaking countryside can be found in abundance for those who want to tread off the beaten path.

From charming villages to historical cities, Checklist has listed 10 beautiful UK destinations for a great 2024 getaway. So, whether you’re planning on travelling as a couple, a family or solo, you’ll find a variety of places in the UK for an amazing getaway this year.

Devon

Nestled in the southwest of England, Devon is one of the jewels of the nation. it is constantly ranked as one of the most popular UK holiday destinations, owing to the abundance of activities on offer.

Visitors can indulge in music, an active nightlife and a rich culture, with a seemingly endless coastline, beautiful beaches, moorland to explore and villages that seem a world away.

Why visit Devon

Devon is known for its coastal resorts, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can undertake rockpooling, sailing, fishing, and surfing, amongst other water-based activities.

Attractions in Devon are seemingly endless. Truly immerse yourself in the county by visiting and partaking in several festivals and live music events.

Popular Attractions

The rich history of Devon can be found in its many historical sites. This includes valleys with Neolithic tombs, Bronze Age stone circles and abandoned medieval farmhouses.

The county boasts Dartmoor National Park, one of the last great wildernesses in the UK. The park is a rugged and exposed terrain perfect for adventurers, with an inspirational landscape of heather clad moors and rugged tors.

From large national events to traditional village fetes, there is much happening in Devon to plan your trip around. If you’re seeking a UK beach holiday, Devon is definitely a destination to check out.

Find out more at Visit Devon

York

York is a vibrant northern city built on 2,000 years of incredible history. With Roman origins and a Viking past, visitors will most certainly get swept up in all York has to offer, a truly unique UK holiday destination.

With the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales also in easy reach, as well as many beautiful gardens, visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with York as a base.

What can you find in York?

Boasting more attractions per square mile than anywhere else in the UK. York is home to many world-class museums, art galleries and other fun-filled experiences.

York has a glorious historical past, which visitors can learn about at one of the city’s many museums. These include York Castle Museum, National Railway Museum, and the JORVIK Viking Centre.

For Kids

For those with children, there are an abundance of activities to keep them entertained. Turn your vacation into a mini adventure with Treasure Hunt York – discover the city by solving clues, scouring the city and following treasure maps.

Journey back through 2,000 Years of York’s darkest History as you see, hear and smell the city’s murky past at The York Dungeon.

Meanwhile, York’s Chocolate Story is an entertaining, informative, and hands-on guided tour through the history of York’s most famous chocolate-making families and their finest creations.

Find out more at Visit York

Cotswolds

One of the most beautiful regions in the UK, the The Cotswolds is a picture-postcard destination. Much like Devon, Cotswolds is constantly one of the most popular UK holiday destinations.

Covering hundreds of square miles in south-central England, Cotswold is known for its rolling hills and picturesque villages, where you’ll never be short of activities.

Why stay in The Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds is a perfect getaway from the stresses and hustle of the big city. The region can be as relaxing, or as exciting as you want it to be; ideal for thrill seekers and those wanting a little R&R.

Home to an abundance of shopping opportunities, from quaint country markets to high-end boutiques and designer shops, The Cotswolds is a shoppers dream UK holiday destination.

Attractions

The region is home to historic castles, churches, museums, and gardens like Berkeley Castle, Blenheim Palace or Sudeley Castle, all telling their own unique stories.

Animal attractions include Cotswold Farm Park and Cotswold Wildlife Park where you can get up close and personal with the vast array of wildlife.

And for the thrill seekers, try surfing the phenomenon of the Severn Bore inland wave if you dare, as well all manner of watersports at Cotswold Water Park.

Plan your ideal trip at Cotswold.com

Bath

Akin to York, Bath is an elegant English city with plentiful history, culture and attractions on offer. A wellbeing destination since Roman times, thanks to its natural hot springs and elegant architecture, there are many things to do in this charming city.

Discover York

Truly care for your health and wellbeing at one of the many ancient baths and spas in the city. Marvel at the ancient Roman baths, renowned city attractions, where you can see how our former settlers liked to unwind and stay clean.

Relax at the Thermae Bath Spa, the only natural thermal spa in Britain. Soak in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy a range of relaxing treatments.

Bath is fizzing with festivals and events 12 months of the year. A city that is in many ways a throwback to a bygone era, visitors will feel as if they are strolling through the pages of a Jane Austen novel, with architectural masterpieces like the Royal Crescent and the Circus.

Celebrate prominent English novelist Jane Austin, Bath’s most famous resident at the Jane Austen Centre. Furthermore, step into the world of Mary Shelley and her most infamous creation, at Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein.

Plan your perfect trip at Visit Bath

Manchester

Manchester has undergone a true regeneration in previous decades, truly transforming the city and placing it amongst some ever-growing UK holiday destinations. Manchester featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023 list and the only UK city in National Geographic’s influential ‘Best of the World’ list.

A place steeped in culture, history and sporting greatness, you’ll never be short of things to see and do in the famed northern city…

What to do in Manchester

Experience Manchester’s famed music scene, which has produced some of the most influential bands and artists in the world, such as Oasis, The Smiths, Joy Division and The Stone Roses.

Step on to the largest working television lot in the country at the Coronation Street The Tour and discover the magic behind the beloved British soap.

Want to indulge in a spot of shopping? Spend the day at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet and the Trafford Centre, packed with notable names.

Sport Powerhouses

The city is also home to two powerhouses of world football, with Manchester United and Manchester City a stone’s throw away from one another. Both clubs provide a comprehensive stadium and club tour, detailing decades of triumph, history and respective successes. Or why not see a competitive match whilst in town?

With luxury and cheap hotels, B&Bs and hostels across the city, Manchester has accommodation to suit all.

Plan your trip at Visit Manchester

Cardiff

For a destination teeming with charm, culture and adventure, see Cardiff. The Welsh capital boasts a rich history, a vibrant nightlife and a stunning waterfront, offering a wide range of activities and events.

What does Cardiff have to offer?

There are tours aplenty in Cardiff. A number of walking tours and sightseeing bus tours showcase the beauty and character of the Welsh capital, enabling visitors to truly discover the city.

The Doctor Who Walking Tour is a hugely popular attraction. The tour showcases locations in Cardiff used in the hit TV series Doctor Who. Learn how the city was utilised for intergalactic purposes, and how it was transformed to become New York, Pompeii and more.

Water Activities

Discover everything to see and do, from touring a gothic fantasy castle to zipping around a rafting course at an exhilarating speed at Cardiff International White Water.

Hit the water aboard travel in comfort on board Princess Katharine – the perfect way to explore the Cardiff Bay, with the Senedd, Millennium Centre, Norwegian Church and much more.

Cardiff is bustling with exciting events and attractions, suitable for all ages and budgets.

Plan your getaway at Visit Cardiff

Stratford-upon-Avon

Discover Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a medieval market town in the West Midlands, most famed for its association with one of the greatest wordsmiths of all time, William Shakespeare.

A hugely popular UK holiday destination, the town boasts more than 800 years of history, the town is a beautiful concoction of culture, history and attractions and events.

Visit all things Shakespeare

Stratford-upon-Avon is one of the most popular UK holiday destinations. This is mainly due to it’s Shakespeare association.

Uncover Shakespeare’s story, where visitors can discover the fascinating stories about the man. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, relive Shakespeare’s first love at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and walk in his exact footsteps at Shakespeare’s New Place.

Between 25 March and 5 November experience The Great Variety of Readers: Celebrating 400 Years of Shakespeare’s First Folio. It is a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the creation and enduring legacy of Master William Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies, also known as the First Folio.

Historical sites

The town also has an abundance of historic sites to visit. These include the Town Hall, and a religious attraction, the Guild Chapel. Additionally, Warwick Castle is a stones throw away, where you can experience medieval history and entertainment.

For nature lovers, relax amongst the nature and wildlife of the River Avon Trail and the Avon Swan Reserve, where individuals can feed the welcoming swans. 

Theatre

Be sure to catch a show in Stratford-upon-Avon. The Royal Shakespeare Company has three famous theatres…

The performing arts centre The Other Place, the flagship Royal Shakespeare Theatre where you can catch many of the Bard’s famous works, and Swan Theatre that regularly stages plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and later writers.

Find out more at Visit Stratford-upon-Avon

Edinburgh

One of Europe’s culture capitals, Edinburgh should definitely be on your shortlist of UK holiday destinations.

With incredible goings-on monthly, no matter when you plan your visit, you are sure to discover much to do.

What’s on in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a phenomenally popular destination, with around 3.5 million people visiting every year. With an abundance of goings on, it is not hard to see why it is one of the most visited UK holiday destinations.

Music and Culture

Music and festival lovers, Edinburgh is the perfect UK holiday destination for you…

June is jam packed with shows, events and festivals, with the likes of Courteeners performing and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel playing.

June meanwhile, is sure to be a haven for music lovers. The acts visiting including BassHunter, The Lumineers and Rod Stewart all visiting this illustrious city.

There are also many festivals taking place in Edinburgh. The Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival and Scottish Festival of Motoring is always a popular pull, drawing crowds from far and wide.

August is not to be forgotten, with its fair share of comedy shows from high-profile acts including Jimmy Carr and Paul Smith. Numerous markets and festivals are held also, to help visitors truly soak up and indulge the Edinburgh culture.

Find your perfect month at Edinburgh Tourist

Stirling

Stirling is a medieval city in central Scotland. Rich in culture and history, it boasts several top attractions that make for an ideal getaway.

Stirling is famous for its strategic location as a key battleground in Scottish history. This can be found in its many castles and monuments, making it one of the most unique UK holiday destinations.

What to do in Stirling

Visitors will want to visit Stirling Castle, a majestic fortress that was once the residence of Scottish kings and queens.

The National Wallace Monument is a worthy tribute to the Scottish hero Sir William Wallace. Visitors can see his sword as well as learn about his life and legacy.

Meanwhile The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum is one of several museums. It is a free attraction that showcases the culture and heritage of Stirling and its people.

Soak up the culture at The Stirling Open Streets Festival. A monthly event, the city centre is transformed into a car-free zone with live music, street performers, markets, and more.

Plan your trip at Visit Scotland

Isle of Skye

For those seeking UK holiday destinations to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, see Isle of Skye. A truly breathtaking UK holiday destination, the Scottish island offers breathtaking scenery, rich history and biodiversity.

Uncover the Isle of Skye jewels

As one would expect, every corner of the Isle of Skye is a picturesque haven. For adventurers, travelers and hikers, the island is a must visit. Discover rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles.

What to do in Skye

Take a swim in crystal clear water, at some of the most enchanting fairy pools in Europe, surrounded by greenery and waterfalls.

No trip is complete without hiking up the beautiful Quiraing. A captivating area with jagged peaks and flat plateau, visitors can marvel at historic landmarks including Neist Point Lighthouse.

Visitors wanting to explore the biodiversity that Skye has to offer are in luck. The region is home to otters, seals, dolphins, whales, eagles, deer and more.

Want a quality bite to eat? There are numerous fooderies, pubs and bars in the area. Sample incredible fresh seafood, lamb, cheese and whisky options.

The island’s population is also known for it’s warm hospitality, with a great range of accommodation options to choose from. These include snug B&Bs to luxury hotels and cottages.

Plan your island stay at Isle of Skye

Keep your eyes peeled for more upcoming incredible, trusted travel features from Checklist, packed with ideas and inspiration to help you to plan your next getaway.

The post 10 incredible UK Holiday Destinations appeared first on Checklists.

This pastime has been growing in popularity recently, as shown by a 19% year-on-year increase in Google searches for ‘car camping’. If you’re thinking of getting in on this trend however, there are many things that you should consider before venturing out on your trip, such as where you are allowed to park, how to maintain your car on the road, and how to save fuel along the way.

Checklist has collaborated with car parts retailer GSF Car Parts to take you through everything you need to know in order to have the idyllic car camping trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Where can you go?

The first thing to decide is where you’ll be going. There are restrictions in the UK about where people can do what’s known as wild camping, which means pitching up outside a campsite, whether that be in your vehicle or in a tent. Working out whether you are allowed to pitch camp somewhere can be confusing, so make sure that you thoroughly research the laws in your chosen location prior to setting off.

Scotland

In Scotland, wild camping is legal in most areas, as long as you follow the behaviour set out in the Access Code. This makes the country a good destination for first-time wild campers, as there’s already plenty of information available to help you and it’s hard to go far wrong. Read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for a practical guide to car camping and wild camping without a vehicle in Scotland.

England, Wales and Northern Ireland

While there are a couple of places in England where car camping is allowed, such as parts of Dartmoor and areas of the Lake District, these are the exception, rather than the rule. All other land in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland technically belongs to someone, and therefore you must have the permission of the landowner to camp there.

This means that it’s not usually possible for you to pitch up outside of camp sites — at least, not without the landowner’s consent. So, when car camping in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you should look up camp sites beforehand and find ones where you can pitch camp in a vehicle.

It is also possible to get permission from the landowner to wild camp on their land, but this is usually more time consuming as it can be confusing to work out exactly who owns which area. It’s usually easier to park within a camp site — unless you’re camping in Dartmoor National Park, which has some spots set aside for the pastime. You should also abide by some rules to leave nature as you found it, such as those outlined in the Lake District’s Guide to Wild Camping.

What happens if you park illegally?

There are a variety of penalties and punishments which may result from parking illegally on private land; many of which can be quite expensive.

This won’t be an issue in Scotland, as wild camping is legal on most public land. However, if you park on privately-owned land in England or Wales without express permission from the landowner, you will technically be trespassing. If the landowner catches you, then you’ll likely just be told to leave the property. But, if you fail to remove your vehicle from the area when asked, then the landowner may take civil action against you. If you continue to cause disruption or intimidation to the landowner, then you could be convicted of aggravated trespassing, a much more serious offence which can result in a fine of up to £2,500, or even a three-month prison sentence.

However, if you are a first-time offender, you’ll likely only be given a fine of around £200–£300. Nonetheless, no one wants to be landed with a fine on holiday, so make sure you check out your planned parking spot in advance and be respectful of the wishes of local landowners to ensure you are complying with the law.

If you are a fan of foraging, it’s also important to note that it is illegal to dig up any plants (including fungi, algae and lichen) from the land without permission from the landowner. So, you are allowed to pick leaves, berries and flowers where plentiful, but not to remove the entire plant by the root. If you are a keen forager, the Woodland Trust’s website has more specific advice on foraging.

Making your car comfortable

The next consideration in planning your trip should be how you can make sure that your car camping holiday is comfortable. If you are planning to sleep in your vehicle, you’ll need to ensure there is enough space for yourself and anyone who is joining you on your trip.

You’ll also need to keep in mind how you’re going to transform it into a comfy bed at night, and a relaxing seating area in the evening when you want to enjoy the view. Many accessories can help you set up camp:

• An awning: Having an awning to set up can help protect you from either the sun or rain, and create a bit of shelter from the wind too. This can also make your camp more homely, as you can place chairs and a table underneath it for sitting and taking in the view.
• An air mattress: While some people prefer to go with just a padded sleeping bag, having a small air mattress that fits inside your vehicle can make the camp more luxurious.
• Storage bags: You can also get special storage bags that will provide some waterproof carrying options to fit luggage into your car more neatly, so you can make the most of the space.
• A cooler: If you are travelling in the summer, being able to keep some food and water chilled is a real asset, and you can choose a cooler size that will fit easily into your vehicle.

Maintaining your car on the road

As well as preparing your car to be comfortable throughout your trip, you’ll need to make sure that you keep it well maintained so that you don’t find yourself breaking down or running out of fuel. Give your car a thorough check before setting off to ensure that everything is in working order, including the breaks, engine, and lights. Then, take the time to assemble a basic car maintenance kit for the road, which should include:

• Replacement oil
• A spare tyre
• Window cleaner
• Brake oil
• Jump leads
• A pump.

It’s also good practice to learn some basic car maintenance tasks before you head out, and to not take a long road trip until you are comfortable enacting some of these repairs yourself. Lastly, keeping your car well maintained at all times will mean you’re ready to venture out on a road trip with much less notice.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Expert car camping tips – and how to avoid getting a fine appeared first on Checklists.

There are numerous ways to make walking truly a pleasure. Prior planning and research can enable you to locate varied walking paths and take in some of the best local sites on offer, including parks and reserves. For those with a dog, taking the beloved canine for a walk can help kill two birds with one stone. Walking with friends or joining a walking club can also heighten the walking experience.

A walking holiday is a great way to explore a location in depth and truly take in all a place has to offer. From its landscapes, monuments to culture, dunes to villages, it is truly an immersive experience. And with the warmer season upon us, bringing with it longer days hotter temperatures, cheeping birds, and blossoming trees, there is a real sense of the natural world bursting with life.

If you are looking for a walking holiday, then look no further than HF Holidays. A company specialising in walking holidays and interest breaks for more than 100 years, they have built up the knowledge to deliver extraordinary holiday experiences in exceptional locations.

There’s a host of different options to choose from to get your break off to a kicking start with HF Holidays providing a range of packages tailored to your interests. Follow trails along historic routes through incredible scenery with the option to select guided or self-guided walking holidays.

Choose from a UK walking break with full board in one of HF Holidays’ 17 country houses, learning a new skill such as landscape painting or dancing. Or join them to travel to Europe and the wider world; the walking travel specialists go to more than 80 destinations on six continents. Being away for even just a few nights can be a great way to unwind and feel invigorated.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Why a walking holiday is your next getaway appeared first on Checklists.

Investing in a property abroad is one of the biggest life steps you can make. So what should British expats think about when it comes to securing their dream home?

Checklist spoke to Nikki Taylor, CEO of Italy Property Consulting, the world’s leading bilingual specialist for Italian property purchases for foreigners. She specialises in helping foreigners purchase new homes in Italy, either for personal use or to utilise as a successful holiday rental.

The property professional is also running an incredible competition to win a fully renovated home in Ostuni, Italy to immediately move into or rent out.

Nikki says: “The giveaway property competition I am running is an example of the work that I do. This property has gone up over 30% in value since I bought it. Plus, it is located in a strategic position and it is already an existing holiday rental.”

Located in the heart of Ostuni’s white-washed, picturesque old town overlooking the Adriatic Coast; learn more about this turnkey property here.

Questions to ask before moving abroad

If you’ve been thinking about relocating, whether that’s to Italy or anywhere overseas, having a clear plan before you move will help prepare you for the future and set realistic expectations for arrival.

Where is the ideal place to relocate?

Have you already nailed down the place you wish to relocate to, or are you weighing up a few different options? If you’re considering moving abroad it’s time to do some serious research on the whereabouts. Be honest with yourself about whether, for example, you really intend to put in the hours to learn a foreign language. Consider factors like visas, how to stay in touch with loved ones, language and work opportunities. Narrow down your options to the top two or three choices and consider booking an initial scouting trip. If you have only ever visited this place in high summer, maybe book an off-season trip.

Is this a short, medium or long-term plan?

To help plan for your relocation it’s important to have an idea whether this move will be a short, medium or long-term change. This will help you plan for living, job-related expenses and what your immigration path will be. It will also determine how you sort your affairs back home before you leave. For example, why worry too much about healthcare if you’re only living there for the short-term?

Can you afford to move?

You are going to face an onslaught of costs when moving abroad. First off, there will be financial matters to settle at home. Are there ongoing payments you will need to budget for? Will you sell your property or rent it out and risk voids if a tenant leaves? You will need to factor in the cost of moving yourself and your belongings abroad. After you arrive you will need to work out accommodation, food and other immediate expenses you will encounter during the first few weeks. As early as possible, you need to start gathering a “dream life abroad fund”.

What will I live on in my new place?

Unless you are living off savings you will need to consider how you will derive an income once in your new location. Will you need to find a job, and if so, is there plenty of work in your field? Will you be able to maintain your UK income while living abroad? If you’re retired how will you access your pension and will you be eligible for annual increases? For those continuing to derive an income or pension in the UK, using a payment specialist like Smart Currency Exchange can be a great way to transfer money to your new location.

Is it best to keep a home in the UK?

For some people who moved abroad in the boom years of the mid-2000s, the global financial crisis came as a shock. Suddenly they realised that their property had not kept pace with UK property values and they could not return as home owners. Since the Brexit vote and the fall in the value of the pound, the same people are quids in! It is an important consideration, however. The good news is that there is a wide range of investment properties that should keep a portion of your wealth keeping pace with UK property values while you’re living it up abroad.

To rent or buy?

What will you do for accommodation after you arrive? If you plan to buy have you researched laws and regulations affecting non-resident buyers in your new country? What are the costs of buying and what is the local real estate market doing, is it a buyer’s or a seller’s market? If you plan to rent have you researched rental availability in your new location? What are the normal customs with renting, are short-term rentals common or do most landlords require longer-term leases?

Find out more about the competition to win a fully renovated home in Ostuni, Italy here.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Expert advice to land your dream Italian home – and the chance to win one appeared first on Checklists.

1. Glass House Retreat

Essex-based Glass House Retreat offers bespoke programmes that are designed to champion fitness, wellness and detox. Offering 21 rooms, a Himalayan salt sauna, indoor heated swimming pool, a new outdoor sauna, a new outdoor natural swimming pool, a panoramic gym and a plethora of Elemis spa treatments, it’s the perfect haven for tranquility. It’s also great for star spotting: TOWIE’s Yazmin Oukhellou and Bobby Norris, Geordie Shore’s Vicky Pattison and Marnie Simpson, and Blue boybander Duncan James are just some of the stars who’ve visited.

Visit glasshouseretreat.co.uk

2. Rockliffe Hall

Rockliffe Hall is a tranquil resort on the banks of the River Tees, in the North East of England. Offering an award-winning spa, 18 hole championship golf course, two restaurants, and 61 bedrooms, it dates back to the 1800s and is steeped in history. Unique to Rockliffe Hall is their Mind Therapy Room, boasting technology that can reduce stress and improve sleep. Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffat recently stayed here with her partner Scott, while actress Gemma Atkinson celebrated her engagement here with fiancé Gorka Marquez.

Visit rockliffehall.com

3. Ragdale Hall

Olympic champ Jessica Ennis-Hill and TOWIE’s Sam Bailey are among the famous faces who have enjoyed the many benefits that come with a stay at this spa retreat. Located in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, this Victorian country house estate has six pools, heat and water experiences and a range of fitness classes and decadent treatments. For a real treat why not book their Two Night Taster Break, which includes a choice of three treatments and full board for the duration of your stay?

Visit ragdalehall.co.uk

4. Chewton Glen

This privately owned luxury country house hotel and spa is located on the fringe of the New Forest. Just two hours from London, it’s got 72 rooms and suites – 14 of those luxury treehouses – as well as over130 acres of woodland, gardens and parkland. The spa currently boasts 12 treatment rooms, a 17-metre swimming pool, fitness suite, dance studio, sauna and steam rooms, nail studio, hydrotherapy pool and hot tub. It’s an incredible place to stay and well worth every penny – plus you could see the likes of Saturday’s girlbander Mollie King and TV presenter Tess Daly, who’ve both enjoyed a break here.

Visit chewtonglen.com

5. Champneys

We couldn’t include a spa round-up without including one of the celebrity favourites now, could we? Kristina Rhanoff and Kylie Minogue have stayed at one of Champneys’ six countryside locations – while Celebrity Secrets themselves shot on location with TOWIE’s Jessica Wright at Champneys Tring! Featuring a 25m swimming pool, indoor hydropool, whirlpool and jacuzzi, its treatments range from traditional massage to clairvoyance, deep energy healing and more.

Visit champneys.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Famous Five: Celebrity spa escapes appeared first on Checklists.

After a year of lockdowns and social distancing – in which travel opportunities have largely been limited to enviously scrolling through Instagram photos of sunlit beaches – it’s almost a cliché to say that our travel preferences will never be the same again. Does that mean we’ll be reluctant to travel far beyond our front doors ever again? If anything, it could be the opposite.

We may end up thinking of travel in a totally new way. It could be more normalised – a necessity rather than a luxury. Our time spent cooped up at home has made us all realise the importance of self-care, and getting some space and a change of scenery is the ultimate example of that. It’s been termed ‘wandermust’ – a fresh appetite for travel, not simply because we’ve got itchy feet but because we have come to appreciate its value on an essential level.

But, while we’ve not had much to do since lockdown began, one thing we’ve had in abundance is time to think. When it comes to travel, that means thinking about every aspect of a trip (whether domestic, short- or long-haul), what bits we really look forward to, and what we suffer through but could really do without.

Travellers in 2021 will be keen to have it their way: to craft their own experience rather than sticking to the obvious destinations and activities, to have everything they want and nothing they don’t, and to make their trips meaningful on a human, experiential level (rather than just checking off a list of attractions and taking selfies to prove we were really there).

What does all this mean, in practice? Here are a few examples:

• We’ll challenge the notion that the holiday of a lifetime requires a 12-hour flight. You can go long-haul if you want to, of course, but many people are discovering equally memorable delights on their own doorstep.
• Along with staycations comes the rise of the ‘workcation’: with so many people now working from home, we have found that we can stick a laptop in the travel bag and work from, well, anywhere.
• The ‘bucket list’ trip still exists, but the destination may have changed. One travel agent reported that their three most popular long-haul destinations were Peru, Ecuador and… Antarctica.
• A ‘life-changing experience’ is something travel companies are used to peddling, but now we really expect it – and not just for ourselves. Responsible tourism is on the rise, aiming to make a positive impact on destinations through techniques such as carbon offsetting, volunteering, or simply pumping revenue into areas that have been affected by a crisis.
• When it comes to money, everyone is looking for value. Travellers have learned to challenge everything, and don’t want to pay for something they don’t need. In the world of last-minute reservations and travel apps, everyone wants to feel like they are getting a personalised experience.

So when should you book that big trip? No one can say what our recovery from the pandemic will look like, or when travel opportunities will ‘open up’ again. We’ve been waiting long enough – we know better than to make predictions. But there is no reason not to start doing your research, planning, and just a little bit of dreaming. Nearly everyone admitted to spending time looking for travel inspiration during lockdown. And what’s wrong with that? Half of the fun of a trip is in looking forward to it.

The post Tomorrow’s travel is about doing it your way appeared first on Checklists.