Julian, Sharron and the rest of the award-winning Abbotts Travel team have put their heads together to produce their Top Picks for 2020. Let's just say, it wasn't pretty - but this is what everyone finally agreed on!!!
Short Breaks
Great Britain may be leaving the European Union in 2020, but that doesn’t mean we can’t continue to explore the beautiful continent.
Malta continues to be popular among our clients and with those crystal clear waters, breathtaking scenery and ever-friendly locals, we understand why.
Jersey offers an abundance of historical and cultural sightseeing, as does Italy, although in the latter you’ll also be able to sample the best pizza in the continent.
Galway in Ireland, named European Capital of Culture for 2020 alongside Rijeka in Croatia, should be on your must-visit city break for next year. Playing host to various cultural events year-round, you’ll be able to join in celebrating the Irish city’s imagination and creativity. Already famous for its stunning scenery and delicious food, Galway treats visitors to public art, exhibitions, theatre, musical performances and more. Looking for somewhere to stay? Check into the traditional and homely Park House Hotel in the city centre.
Yet we all know the best short breaks are with your besties… spas, shopping and seriously good food. Whether it’s Switzerland, Portugal or Turkey that tickles your fancy, we have an exclusive luxury resort picked out for each. The perfect girls getaway for 2020.
Jordan & Israel
Follow the footsteps of the bible in 2020 and embark on a beautiful Middle Eastern adventure.
Jordan has a population of only 10 million, but is still home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Petra. The Dana Biosphere Reserve is the largest nature reserve in the country and also one of the best places in the world to stargaze at night.
Israel is known to most as the birthplace of three of the world’s greatest religions - Judaism, Islam and Christianity, and has been a pilgrimage site for millennia. Mark and Sarah from Abercrombie & Kent introduced both countries at our recent showcase event, sharing the possibilities for exploring both countries, as well as Egypt, within one incredible tour.
Japan
A country that currently needs no introduction, Japan has always been high on most travellers' bucket lists. This year it played host to the 2019 Rugby World Cup, which put the country firmly on every sports fan's radar, but the hordes of tourists show no hint of slowing down.
There truly is something for everyone in this fascinating country. Whether interested in the Summer Olympics, looking for snow monkeys, cherry blossom trees, the famous bullet train or a hike to the top of Mount Fuji, 2020 may be the year to finally take that trip.
Argentina & Chile
Argentina and Chile will play host to a spectacular solar eclipse next year, making it a once-in-a-lifetime holiday destination for the space watchers among us. Soak up the December heat while Britain freezes across the pond and enjoy tango-filled Buenos Aires and Patagonia’s epic mountain scenes.
Take a trip through both countries, before settling down to witness the 14 December event. And once the light show is over? Why not jump on a boat and head south for an unforgettable wildlife experience to see the ice caps and penguins in Antarctica.
Rainforest & Salvador, Brazil
The Amazon fires made headlines throughout the world this year, shining a light on the issues of deforestation and unsustainable logging. Instead of avoiding travel to this part of the world, we encourage our clients to support them more than ever.
Sustainable travel is a profitable use of the Amazon Rainforest, providing local employment and protecting an incredibly biodiverse region. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of such an untouched part of the world.
‘A visit to the Amazon makes the case for protecting the rainforest for responsible tourism versus logging, deforestation and mining,’ says Justin Francis, CEO of lobbying tour operator Responsible Travel.
Salvador is a fantastic gateway to the Amazon, but the city itself also has a lot to offer. The heart of the Afro-Braillian community, according to Lonely Planet: ‘there’s no other place in the world where the culture of those brought as slaves from Africa has been preserved as it has been in Salvador - from music and religion to food, dance and martial-arts traditions’. Wild festivals happen frequently here and the city’s rich history plays part in it’s now vibrant youthful energy and deep traditions.
Jamaica
Jamaica is like no other. If you’re looking for warmth and happiness, this could be the perfect spot for 2020.
All eyes will be on this beautiful Caribbean Island next year, when James Bond ‘No Time to Die’ hits the screens in April. Once home to James Bond author Ian Fleming, the island has been confirmed as the first location in the latest Bond installment.
It’s not just a hit with the 007 fans, it’s also one of Danny’s favourite travel memories.
Oh and our favourite place to stay? Ochos Rios, you’ll know why as soon as you arrive.
India
India conjures up fantastic, mystical images: the Taj Mahal, the holy river Ganges, tigers, turbans, saris, great food and rickshaws. It’s easy to get poetic when describing the land where the ancient and the contemporary exist side by side.
Joanna Lumley loved it here and so have our clients.
For those in search of the elusive tiger, there’s good news. There has been a drastic increase in numbers recently, with almost 3,000 wild tigers in India (up from 2,200 four years ago). Meaning it’s a great time to pay a visit to one of the country’s top wildlife locations, where you can see these majestic animals in their natural habitats.
Sri Lanka
This year was a devastating one for Sri Lanka, but their tourism industry is bouncing back and it continues to be an irresistible location for 2020. The tropical climate, endless beaches and beautiful people is what brings back tourists every year. It’s also the reason we teamed up with our friends at Authenticities to feature the region in one of our showcase events.
The Island offers a dazzling array of choices alongside an abundance of wildlife, making it an exciting year-round destination. With our clients coming home ecstatic after their blissful Sri Lankan adventure, we know we’ll be arranging more trips there in 2020.
If you’re still seeking further inspiration, our Inspire Me collection represents special properties, resorts and experiences which could influence your 2020 bucket list. As well as our accumulation of First Look pieces, bringing you the newest and brightest accommodations and experiences on offer.
As we approach peak booking season, book an appointment, drop in to our store or contact us.
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Wishing you all a very happy new year and many enjoyable travels in 2020.