New year’s resolutions tend to centre around health, wellbeing and becoming a better you, but more often than not, the ability to walk away with experiences does more for our general wellbeing than any post-christmas detox.
Travel and the experiences we gain whilst indulging our will for wanderlust are memories and feelings we hold on to for life.
So why not make 2016 the year of new experiences with any one of these destinations?
Myanmar
The mysticism of Myanmar has only recently been made available to the outside world. Historically known as Burma, the ancient wonder that is Myanmar sits between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea coast, where it holds within it secrets of thousands of years of rich culture and ancient tradition.
Whether you’re exploring the world’s oldest pagoda – said to contain eight hairs of Buddha or watching the unique Intha fishermen who row standing with one leg wrapped around a single oar along Inle Lake, Trafalgar’s Secrets of Myanmar guided holiday, offers an array of cultural and spiritual experiences that will last a lifetime.
Iceland
The natural beauty of a place like Iceland is very rarely found in such abundance elsewhere. The rich history of Nordic culture has a captivating and affecting beauty that is sure to provide an experience like no other. From turquoise glaciers to hauntingly volcanic landscapes as well as awe-inspiring fjords and waterfalls, Iceland is an adventure-seeker’s paradise.
Trafalgar’s new Ultimate Iceland experience will take you from the world famous Blue Lagoon to the majestic mountains of Skagafjördur – an area famous for its rich equestrian history. Here you’ll be invited into the homestead of a horse farm to learn all about the unique Icelandic breed, as part of Trafalgar’s exclusive Insider Experiences.
Japan
From eclectic (and eccentric) cities to traditional villages and snow-capped mountains, Japan’s culturally diverse landscape offers experiences for every type of traveller.
Explore Japan like a local with Trafalgar’s Splendours of Japan and leave with a new set of skills. Enjoy an array of Insider Experiences including a sushi making demonstration and cooking class in the famous Ginza district, learn washi paper making in Gokayama, sample Japanese sake in Takayama and practice gold leaf painting with a local artisan in Kanazawa. In a special Be My Guest dining experience, be welcomed inside a traditional ryokan nestled in the peace and quiet of Mt. Yoshida. Built in 1932, it is here you’ll taste kaiseki cuisine and learn local Japanese customs with your hosts inside their home.
Italy
From the bustling city streets of Rome to the endless canals of Venice, Italy as a region needs no introduction. If, like many of us, food guides your heart then the Secrets of Italy trip is for you. Over 7 days, take your tastebuds on a journey through Italy’s Piedmont region, famous for its antipasti, amaretti and wines. Experience a trip to the Barele Fratelli winery where you’ll learn about the regions wines, and in Turin enjoy the local treats such as biscotti and Bicerin.
USA
This trip is for anyone who has dreamt of exploring the incredibly diverse landscapes of America’s west and midwest. The Scenic Parks Explorer guided holiday will take you from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon on an all-encompassing 15 day itinerary where you will be immersed in the culture of the midwest, from Mesa Verde’s carved canyon houses to Bryce Canyon’s towering hoodoos. Release your inner-cowboy on a cookout in Billings and discover the history of local legend, Buffalo Bill, in Cody. Get to know the inner workings of one of the world’s most breathtaking sites – the Grand Canyon, with an expert geologist who will guide you through the ancient natural events that resulted in its formation.
