Where will you go – Travel in 2021
In the wake of the pandemic, many plans to travel somewhere new had to be scrapped or delayed. Even the most prolific travellers succumbed to the stress that came from trying to plan a holiday this year. However, as we look ahead to the new year there is a glimmer of hope – potentially less restrictions mean we might be able to travel further than our city’s limits.
Are you looking for some inspiration for your next trip? Are there any countries that hit the “must-visit” in 2021 list? Read on to find some insights that could help you choose.
Greece
Based on recent research based on searches and booking spikes, Greece comes out on top as the favourite holiday destination in 2021. Greece boasts of miles upon miles of beautiful coastlines, Instagram worthy villages and beautiful islands, unsurprisingly it is forever on every tourist’s bucket list.
Without a doubt, you will have heard of Crete, Santorini, Mykonos – places we’re all guilty of daydreaming about. But Greece is packed with endless hidden gems. Here is a list for your consideration:
- Ithaka – home of Odysseus (surely, you’ve heard the trojan horse was his idea?)
- Milos – The Venus de Milo island (Venus is now living her best life at the Louvre)
- Karpathos – hiding in plain sight and home to amazing beaches
- Elafonisos – has some of best secret beaches in Greece (no, not Elafonisi)
UK
The UK remains one of the most visited nations in the world from historical sights to scenic countryside, modern cities to quaint medieval towns, the UK seems to have it all. Unlikely to be the first country in mind when you think “coastal get-away”, the UK also has an unbelievably stunning coastline.
Park Holidays, UK holiday and holiday home specialists, were keen to discover the top UK beach locations, so, they compiled research analysing key aspects such as:
- No. of fish & chip shops (UK’s pride and joy)
- Beach/water cleanliness
- Entertainment
And here is who comes out on top according to Brits themselves:
- Great Yarmouth, Norfolk – renowned for its long, sandy, and super clean beaches (and so many fish & chip shops)
- Bournemouth, Dorset – with its amazing views and bountiful history Bournemouth comes in at a close 2nd
- Southend-on-Sea, Essex – British seaside favourite (if the locals like it…)
- Brighton, Sussex – Brighton has forever been a popular beach destination (but packed with tourists all year around)
- Margate, Kent – this timeless seaside town came in a no. 5 and its beautiful, sandy beaches are sure to take your breath away
Italy
Dreaming of an Italian escape? There is a certain enchantment and instant attraction that this land possesses, no wonder the world breathed a sigh of relief when it reopened its doors to tourists. From culture, history, food, wine and its picturesque landscapes, the allure of Italy continues capture the hearts of tourists, veteran, and novice alike.
Much like Greece, research shows there has been a spike in searches and bookings for holidays in Italy. Here are some spots that should be in your list of potentials:
- Positano – regarded as Italy’s most picturesque and photogenic town (the Gigi Hadid of Italy)
- Polignano a Mare – considered one of the most important ancient settlements in Puglia (Red Bull diving competition? Happened here!)
- Riomaggiore – part of the Cinque Terre (Famous for sweet wine and Via Dell’ Amore: Lovers’ Path)
- Portoferraio – in Elba island, has beautiful hidden beaches and Medici forts (Napoleon Bonaparte was a resident)
- Aci Trezza – for our seafood lovers, this smaller town is home to some of the coast’s best restaurants (also home to “isole dei ciclopi”, have you read Homer’s Odyssey?)
Regardless of what your choice might be, be sure to read the latest travel advice to visit these beautiful countries.
