Where should I travel in 2021?
After many plans were dashed because of the 2020 pandemic, we have a feeling that eager travellers are starting to dust off their rucksacks and look out their passports. There is light at the end of the tunnel and those plane window views are no longer just a dream. If anything, the global shutdown of borders has taught us travellers that we shouldn't keep putting off that dream destination. Now is the time to say yes to new experiences and exciting destinations, but it's also time to start thinking mindfully about where and how you travel. We have compiled some of our favourite destinations that will hopefully inspire your 2021 travel agenda.
1
Botswana
Botswana is a landlocked country in the heart of Southern Africa. It's a place where elephants roam freely across the land, where mokoros and their polars drift elegantly through the waterways of the Okavango Delta and where hippos lurk in the Chobe River. If a safari is on your 2021 travel list, Botswana is the perfect choice. Spot giraffe, lion, zebra and more in Chobe National Park before enjoying a sunset river cruise to witness the creatures that lurk beneath the surface.
2
Japan
The 2020 turned 2021 Olympics in Japan may be the talk of the town, but if you’re not a sports fan, why not visit Japan when the crowds are much smaller. Situated in the south of Japan, Nagasaki often gets overlooked compared to energetic Tokyo or historic Kyoto. The city has many different sides to it - from its vibrant Chinatown (the largest in Japan) to Deijima - the former Dutch trading post which has been well-restored. Due to its location to the coast, the seafood here is fantastic. Make sure to feast on sushi and sashimi at one of the many restaurants. Of course exploring Tokyo and the charming city of Kyoto will give you great insight into the difference faces of Japan, from historic temples to modern robot cafes. Visit in March for the Cherry Blossom season when the streets are adorned with pretty pink petals.
3
Georgia
Forget Barcelona, Venice or Berlin, the European city for a holiday in 2021 is Tbilisi in Georgia. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and its Old Town is a treat to explore. Picture-perfect colourful houses line the streets and spectacular views can be seen from the Narikala Fortress. It has a fantastic food and drink scene and is famous for its wine. Outside Tbilisi you'll find fascinating sites such as Vardzia Cave Town and the stunning 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church.
4
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka as a whole should not be overlooked in 2021 when planning your next trip. From breathtaking beaches, wildlife-packed national parks and ancient temples, the country offers something for everyone. One of the main highlights is the sacred city of Kandy - located around Kandy Lake and flanked by beautiful valleys. It is famous for the Temple of the Tooth - one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic temples, which draws thousands of Buddhist worshippers from all over the globe. Kandy also offers travellers the chance to get a taste of Sri Lankan culture - from watching traditional dances to purchasing hand-woven fabrics and crafts. Other highlights of Sri Lanka include travelling through the tea plantations by train, or walking up Sigiriya Rock for magical views over the landscape that surrounds it.
5
Romania
2021 is the year to get off the beaten track and visit quieter destinations. For something a little different why not head to Romania? Visit the capital city of Bucharest, explore the beautiful countryside in the Maramures and check out enchanting castles. Highlights include the colourful streets of Sighisoara, the remote walking trails in the Carpathian Mountains and the general slower pace of life you'll find in this corner of Eastern Europe.
6
Patagonia (Argentina/Chile)
If you want to truly feel like you're in the heart of the wild, a trip to the depths of Patagonia will leave you in awe at the work of Mother Nature. Soaring mountains, beautiful lakes, shimmering glaciers and untouched landscapes make this corner of the world so special. Spend time in Torres del Paine National Park where you can hike to the famous "three towers", or set your eyes upon the magical Perito Moreno Glacier and if you're lucky, witness large shards of ice crashing into the water below.
7
Peru
Peru will be a popular destination for 2021. With so many fantastic landscapes and outdoor adventures, it's very much an "outside" holiday destination. Hiking to Machu Picchu, overlooking Colca Canyon, exploring Lake Titicaca or cruising around the Ballestas Islands - the variety of sights make Peru an incredibly special place. We recommend spending time in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon to really immerse yourself in nature. Stay in an eco lodge, enjoy walking tours with naturalist guides who will point out the various flora and fauna found in the rainforest and try new experiences such as piranha fishing.
8
Jordan
Jordan is the darling of the Middle East and is expected to draw 7 million travellers annually in the coming years. At Tucan Travel, it is firm becoming one of our favourite countries, with its plentiful and delicious cuisine, ancient cities and jaw-dropping desert landscapes. Head out to the Dead Sea where you can float to your heart’s content or try a cooking class in the market city of Madaba. Head deep into the desert valley of Wadi Rum, riding camels across sand dunes before star-gazing at night. Need more inspiration to visit Jordan in 2021? Read our blog here.
9
Vietnam
Gorgeous food, fascinating cultural landmarks and serene landscapes make Vietnam a gem of southeast Asia. Dotted with UNESCO sites of both cultural and natural status, there is much to see in this small yet diverse country. Explore the north where you'll find the capital city of Hanoi, the soaring cliffs in Halong Bay and the walking trails of Sapa. Visit Hue to explore the citadel and gorgeous gardens and make a stop in Hoi An to wonder the gorgeous lantern adorned streets. In the southern reaches of the country, lose yourself in the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City or drift through the tranquil waters of the Mekong Delta.
10
Poland
Poland has flourished in recent years as a tourist destination and offers an affordable and culturally rich European holiday. Explore the Old Town of Warsaw, which has been rebuilt to it's former glory after the second world war, check out the Royal Castle or learn about Poland's past at the interactive Warsaw Rising Museum. Travel to Krakow where you can educate yourself on the atrocities at Auschwitz on a guided tour of the concentration camp, or explore underground the main square at the Rynek Museum. Be mesmerised at the Wieliczka Salt Mine or wander the stunning gardens of Wawel Castle. Or why not enjoy the vibrant architecture found in Wroclaw? Poland is the perfect destination to combine history, culture, delicious cuisine and a variety of activities suited to all travellers tastes.
11
Costa Rica
Although Costa Rica has had travellers flocking to its beautiful national parks on an annual basis, it deserves a special mention on this list. With sustainable and responsible travel becoming more and more important, Costa Rica is an example of a country with fantastic eco-initiatives. 5% of the world’s wildlife species can be found living in the tropical jungles and beaches and by 2021 they hope to be the first carbon neutral country in the world. 30% of the country is protected by the National System of Conservation Areas and it is the only country in the world without an army! Travellers can enjoy spotting sloths, zip-lining through the rainforest or even seeing sea turtles come to nest on the beach. With the need to protect the environment now more than ever, 2021 is a fantastic year to put tourism money into the country.
12
Galapagos Islands
2020 marked the 200th anniversary of the launch of the HMS Beagle - the same ship Charles Darwin used to take him around the world. But unfortunately not many got to visit to mark this celebration! To follow in Charles’ footprints why not have your own adventure exploring the Galapagos Islands in 2021? Hop on board our small ships and enjoy a cruise visiting this unique archipelago. Snorkel with sea lions, admire giant tortoises and learn all about the islands with a specialist guide. You can visit the Galapagos Islands as a set tour or combined with the other highlights of South America.
13
Tanzania
Tanzania is an excellent holiday destination in Eastern Africa that combines the thrills of a safari with the luxury of white sandy beaches and opaque blue ocean. Start your adventure in the Serengeti National Park where you can enjoy trying to spot the Big Five, or if you time it right, the majestic wildebeest migration. Visit the salt pans at the impressive Ngorongoro Crater or take on the challenge of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. After an active adventure on the mainland why not end your holiday on the tranquil island of Zanzibar? Explore the ancient alleys in Stone Town, stroll along the beautiful beaches on North Beach and be spoiled for choice with
12
Macedonia
Nestled in the southeast of Europe among the Balkan states, Macedonia offers visitors a unique blend of impressive ruins, idyllic villages and natural wonders. Explore the capital city of Skopje, that offers a plethora of restaurants, historic sites and museums, including the Mother Theresa Memorial Room. You could wander the old bazaar, the largest outside of Turkey, finding unique souvenirs and sampling the delicious local food. Another highlight is the town of Ohrid, perched on the shores of a lake of the same name. It's considered Europe's oldest lake and the picturesque settlement has been the setting of thousands of years of human history seen through the ancient churches, fortress walls and bazaars. For the nature lovers, cruise down the river in Matka Canyon, located just outside Skopje, where you can admire the stunning rock walls overlooking the canyon and explore the cave found within. A holiday to Macedonia is nothing short of a cultural adventure.
Why not check out our other destinations?
