Travel: Where Should I Go And When? Part 1
As a Travel Agent I am often asked to find holidays for people at the complete wrong time of year – for instance, people going to Dubai in August – way too hot. Majorca in November to get a tan – it’s unlikely to happen or Iceland to see the Northern Lights in July – you wont see them. I am hoping the following will give you a good idea as to the best time to go to some amazing destinations.
JANUARY As Christmas slopes into the distance and with cold weather still to come, travelling to find some sun is appealing in January. I recommend beach time in the Thai islands. Thailand is one of my most visited countries and I still love it. With local airports springing up it has made the islands much easier (and cheaper) to get to. In Africa, the January rains break the Kalahari heat and the quenched plains spring to life. Journey to Botswana to watch the migration of wildebeest and zebra as they follow the scent of the fresh grazing – do a side trip to Victoria Falls – where three countries join together by water. It is also the perfect time to visit Cape Town and the surrounding areas.
FEBRUARY February might be bleak in the top half of the world, but it’s summertime down South and New Zealand and Southern Australia are basking in the life outdoors. Both Australia and New Zealand are geared up for self drives and camping holidays with New Zealand having an amazing amount of National parks with some stunning hikes. Why not combine your trip down under with a stopover in Hong Kong to enjoy the festivities of Chinese New Year. You will need to book early if you are considering the Chinese New Year celebrations.
MARCH The Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is perfect to visit in March. Take a tour around the cultural triangle taking in Sigiriya, Kandy and the Horton Plains National Park before spending time on the gorgeous beaches. If wildlife is more your thing then extend your trip to have a few days in Yala National Park, famous for its leopards and then fly off to the Maldives for pristine beaches, exotic hotels and complete relaxation. There is an island out there for everyone, whether you want plenty of activities or if a romantic hideaway is for you.
APRIL Travel to South America in April offers up tons of nature opportunities including wonderful bird watching in the Galapagos. The Iguaçu Falls, bordering Brazil and Argentina, are also at their most dramatic after the summer rainfalls. In Morocco, the climate in April is cool enough for you to explore Marrakesh’s souqs or hike the High Atlas Mountains in more comfort. April is always my favourite month to be in Dubai, on the beaches or lazing around a hotel pool experiencing the most incredible service without the Summer heat.
MAY If you’re planning a May break, this can be a great time to visit the Caribbean. The weather is great with the rain departed and the winds not yet to arrive, the crowds have left after Spring break and the islands are perfect for exploring. On a cruise in Canada you can spot migrating grey whales and their young, along with minke and killer whales. Take a Cruise up to Alaska from here where you will witness the most spectacular scenery. For a trip in the mountain air, hike along the trails of the High Atlas in Morocco. The comfortable temperature allows you to enjoy the scenery by day and camp out in Bedouin-style tents by night. Treat yourself and have a few nights at Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot, it’s not as expensive as you would think.
JUNE June marks the start of the birthing season in Southern Africa and you have the chance to see newly born game as you safari in Botswana. Newborn gorillas are given their names in a traditional festival in Rwanda each June and I can design you a trip there gorilla trekking, which pairs nicely with added time on safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara. June is also an ideal time for visiting Costa Rica in the quieter green (or rainy) season when you’ll still find plenty of dry weather, quieter national parks and better views of the famous Arenal Volcano. All of Central America is still undiscovered and one of the new ‘cool’ places to go. After 7 years living in Central America there’s still so much to see.
Make sure you read part 2 here
As a Norwich based ABTA and ATOL independent Travel Agent with 61 countries under my belt, I am always around to offer advice, not only on which destination to go to but on what to do and where to go when you get there. I like to get to know my customers and am more than happy to visit you in your home, a coffee shop or where ever suits you to meet to go through all the details to get that right trip.
Sarah Laverty, owner of Compass Connections has travelled the world all the name of passion and being able to pass on her knowledge to others. If you have a trip in mind or just want to discuss your next holiday plans please do get in touch. www.compass-connections.co.uk 01603 343555
