Taking inspiration from the world hidden gems blog post series that I did last year, I have narrowed down my choice to three once-in-a-life time trips that I simply have to explore before I kick the bucket!
Maldives
Photo Credit: Unlimited Maldives
This place looks absolutely beautiful with large expanses of everlasting sea and luscious green palm trees. The location is a hot favourite amongst celebs like the Beckham’s, and it is no surprise why. It’s the epitome of luxury! The accommodation here is most definitely on another level, imagine sleeping beneath the Indian ocean marine life or staying in your own wooden villa on an extended arm that branches out into the sea?! This would be perfect after a long day of learning about the local history in the Natural Museum or visiting Maafushi where you can explore the marine life through scuba diving and snorkelling.
Bali
Photo Credit: The Bali Bible
Staying around the Indian ocean, Bali looks like a stunning destination for a relaxing retreat. This location boasts culture and amazing sightseeing opportunities like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary or the Sekumpul Waterfalls. This waterfall does involve some trekking, but the views will be absolutely worth it! It is also the ultimate foodies dream according to Elsa’s Wholesome Life! The wood fire pizzas in Milk and Madu sound amazing.
Some of the bloggers and vloggers, like Tess Christine, I follow have travelled to this wonderful corner of the world and where they places stayed look unreal. Many with thatched roofs, infinity pools and 5* service – basically the ultimate sea side resorts.
South Africa
Photo Credit: Singita
Looking for wild landscapes and fierce wildlife? Then a luxury safari in South Africa should definitely be on your bucket list! Discover the amazing wildlife this destination has to offer with a guided tour of the country’s game reserves. Alternatively, explore Table Mountain by cableway or if you’re brave, take a hike and enjoy the breathtaking views of Cape Town. Or if you are an animal fanatic, visit the Country’s third largest reserve, Addo Elephant National park which contains herds of elephants, lions and black rhinos.
As for accommodation, there are plenty of luxury hotels and safari lodges around for you to get some rest and relaxation after a long day of tracking down The Big Five! Personally, after a long day of exploring, I would love to get some shut eye in a safari lodge as it offers a lovely opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonderful surroundings. Whether you are staying in a luxury tent or wooden lodge, South Africa makes for a perfect romantic location – Prince Harry and Megan Markle definitely thought so!
Caribbean
Photo Credit: J Rook Photos
Relax on the lengthy expanses of white, silky sand and top your tan up whilst taking a dip into the crystal-clear waters. With the water being so transparent, snorkelling and diving is a must in this location. Explore reefs and discover local marine life like bottle-nose dolphins and rainbow fish. And with there being such warm weather, boat trips and evening walks along the beach are a must!
Everything about the accommodation here is luxurious, from luxury self-catering properties for independent travelers to tented lodges in the Tayrona National park, the choice is endless. Also, around this National park there are some fantastic pass times like La Piscina, which is a reef off the coast that forms a natural swimming pool or if you fancy exploring, try hiking up to the ruins of El Pueblito!
All these locations have given me the ultimate thirst for adventure and all things luxurious, I simply can’t choose! Me and my other half are thinking of having an house extension some time this year (fingers crossed!) so these beautiful destinations might need to wait a little longer, but I’ll be saving all of my pennies for a trip to at least one of them in the not-too-distant future.
