Abercrombie & Kent’s in-the-know travel experts have revealed the most enticing destinations to visit this year. From the hotspots having a moment in the sun, to those under-the-radar regions you need to know about — read on for 2024’s top holiday destinations.
1. Norway
Despite our obsession with everything Scandi, Norway remains one of the least explored countries in the region. But this is set to change. In winter, venture above the Arctic Circle and spot the Northern Lights, while in summer go in search of the angelic midnight sun. Meet Sami reindeer herders, invigorate your body in ice baths and saunas, peruse art in Oslo, take the legendary Flam Railway and cruise through Norway’s most majestic fjord. This is nature at its absolute finest. 10-day Norway Winter Wonderland luxury Tailor-Made Journey
2. Sri Lanka
Boasting eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, secluded coves and beaches, safari-style wildlife and ruins that will leave you marvelling — Sri Lanka is Asia’s latest knockout. From Kandy to the lost cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the Golden Triangle is home to some of the world’s best archaeology sites; while the Central Highlands feature one of the most beautiful train journeys on the planet. But one of the undeniable highlights of this jewel-sized gem is its serene and gentle people, and its fragrant tasty cuisine.
14-day Sri Lanka: Secrets of the Spice Island Luxury Small Group Journey
3. Kenya
Kenya is, without a doubt, one of A&K’s all-time favourites. Perhaps it’s because Founder Geoffrey Kent helped inspire The Lion King when he hosted DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg on safari in Masai Mara’s Pride Rock. With 2024 marking the 30th anniversary of the film, we are already seeing fresh interest in this East African jewel. Delve into one of the world’s most iconic travel spots, bursting with panoramic beauty, abundant wildlife, a rich tribal culture, and golden laid-back beaches.
11-day Wildlife & Warriors luxury Tailor-Made Journey
4. Colombia
Colombia is one of the most ecologically rich countries on earth. A staggering 10% of all the world’s species can be found here and its natural contrasts are just astonishing. Explore dense Amazon jungle, bone-white beaches, isolated mountains, coffee-carpeted highlands and wildly remote Guajira Peninsula — home to the Wayuu people who live among the salt flats and flamingo-lined lagoons. But don’t forget the cities, which are packed with enticing salsa clubs, cuisine makers and cocktail shakers.
9-day Colombia: Bogotá to Cartagena Marco Polo Journey
5. Costa Rica
With its green ethos, low-impact footprint and focus on community, Costa Rica is one of the greatest pioneers of ecotourism in the world. Over a quarter of the country is now protected as national parks, marine reserves and conservation sanctuaries. It is unbelievably biodiverse with rainforests, beaches, volcanoes, mountains and mangrove swamps supporting a fascinating variety of colourful wildlife. Immerse yourself in the wild world of Tortuguero and the magical Osa Peninsula, witnessing first-hand the rewards of Costa Rica’s visionary approach to tourism. Go now, before everyone else gets there.
10-day Costa Rica Encounter luxury Tailor-Made Journey
6. Slovenia
Sandwiched between the holiday honeypots of Italy and Croatia, it’s a mystery how Slovenia has remained so under-the-radar. From the glacial waters of Lake Bled, to the limestone canyons of Plitvice Lakes National Park and the ever-so-pretty islands of Hvar — it’s not for lack of good looks. The capital of Ljubljana is pursuing a bold sustainable vision, while the country’s food, too, is increasingly on the agenda: Slovenia got its own Michelin guide in 2020. This is Europe’s best-kept secret.
12-day Best of the Balkans: Slovenia to Croatia luxury Tailor-Made Journey
7. The North Pole
The landscapes, wildlife, and exclusivity of the North Pole make it unlike anywhere else on earth. Embark on A&K’s inaugural voyage on the innovative and advanced new icebreaker ‘Le Commandant Charcot’. Explore the marginal ice zone, home to seal, whale, seabird and polar bear, and dive into the Arctic Circle — one of the most unique diving experiences you can ever do — with chances to hike, kayak or take an invigorating ice plunge. Cruise in comfort knowing your ship is one of the most eco-friendly polar vessels in the world. This is the apex of adventure.
18-day North Pole Expedition Cruise: A&K’s inaugural voyage on the innovative new icebreaker ‘Le Commandant Charcot’.
8. Japan
The reopening of Japan at the end of 2022 saw a flurry of fresh haunts — glassy Tokyo hotels, creative nooks in Kyoto and even a Totoro-filled theme park from the movie makers at Studio Ghibli. But for a place with high-speed trains and fast-paced megacities, the most compelling way to see Japan is to dive into its historical culture, immersing yourself in the timeless traditions of everyday life. Japan is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations right now and it’s not hard to see why: so plan ahead to secure your spot.
12-day Art and Culture of Japan luxury Tailor-Made Journey
9. Morocco
Morocco remains a perennial place that stirs the senses and leaves an indelible mark on your heart. It is a place where African and Arabic cultures collide with a glamorous touch of French, and the medieval walls of the country’s cities burst with spice-laden souks and bustling medinas. There are plenty of incredible reasons to go there this year — from the tanneries of Fes to the lively souks in Marrakech, the kasbahs of the Dades Valley to Sahara’s desert dunes, where you can stay at A&K’s Exclusive Desert Camp.
12-day Kasbahs & Caravans luxury Tailor-Made Journey
10. Vietnam
Vietnam is one of Asia’s most exciting places to not only travel but to eat. So, it was no surprise when Michelin finally got the memo, releasing its first guide to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh in June 2023. The first four stars were dished out to fashionable fine dining spots, such as Ho Chi Minh’s Anan Saigon and Gia in Hanoi, with its in-house fermentation lab; but to sample the country’s real food culture, take to the streets — your tastebuds will thank you.
13-day Highlights of Vietnam luxury Tailor-Made Journey
For a full list of A&K’s extraordinary journeys, visit the website or contact your travel advisor today.
Images: Supplied / Getty
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent.
