Trending Destinations for 2024
Like all travel junkies, here at UTC, we were extremely excited about 2024 and all the travel possibilities it could bring. The trends we’re seeing this year build naturally from what we’ve experienced globally in recent times. Not only do we want to see amazing places, we want to feel authentic experiences that make us feel a part of that of that world.
Below is a collection of trending destinations and itineraries in which we are seeing ever-increasing interest. Whilst the world of travel rebuilds, there is no time like the present to plan your adventures for 2024 and beyond. Our travel experts are available to discuss your ideas at any time, so please give us a call or request a video appointment to utilize their knowledge and make your trip dreams a reality!
France
Hosts of the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics, France has been showcased on the world stage. Such a diverse country, where age-old traditions are often given a modern reboot. There’s so much to explore here; there are 630 Michelin-starred restaurants for a start, and several of our itineraries focus on gastronomy. You’ll get a dose of sobering history if you visit the sites of the Normandy landings, a feel for fantasy in Provence’s hilltop villages, and a taste for luxury amongst the high flyers and their yachts on the Cote D’Azur.
South Africa
South Africa is home to expansive national parks where wild animals roam freely, and cosmopolitan cities that are wrapped by dramatic mountains. For those who have never been to Africa before, South Africa is the perfect choice. There is a wealth of national parks and private reserves across the country, offering perfect accommodation choices for honeymooners, solo travelers, and families alike, with the chance to see the Big Five. Combine your safari experience with some time in the trendy cities like Cape Town and Durban, both offering sandy beaches and active excursions like hiking, cycling, snorkeling, diving, whale watching, and even shark cage diving. South Africa is also a great destination for those who are into their food and wine. The Cape Winelands (the Franschhoek and Stellenbosch area) is home to a wealth of award-winning wineries that are enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
Italy
It comes as no surprise that Italy is among the top ten most trending destinations for 2024. This iconic country – home to some of the most romantic cities, delicious food, and historic sites – is always among the top most traveled countries in the world. With such diversity, it is a country that you can revisit time and time again. A first visit to Italy usually combines destinations like Rome, Venice, and Florence. For returning visitors, there is a wealth of choices including Milan, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, the Lakes, Bologna, Sicily, and many more. Whether you are interested in history, culture, art, and architecture, or food, our travel specialists can curate private tours into your personalized itinerary.
Japan
There is nowhere as diverse as Japan. From snow-peaked mountains to islands coated with white sand; from cities with electric nightlife to quaint towns in the Alps, with nothing but local spots and friendly smiles. It is a country that features on many peoples’ bucket lists, but as it was one of the last countries to properly re-open in terms of restrictions, it took a while to get up and running in the travel world. That said, it has come with vengeance and today is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. Of course, destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima are some of the most sought-after, but our travel specialists have found up-and-coming destinations, including Ine.
Described as ‘Japan’s most beautiful village’, Ine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been built on the waters of Ine Bay. This village is essentially made up of over 200 boat houses (locally named ‘funayas’). While the weather – and in turn the intensity of the sea that comes with it – can be pretty intense in Japan, it is astounding that this ‘floating village’ is still standing. Surrounding unhabituated islands surrounding Ine help to keep it protected and the waters calm. This can be a great region to visit or to be used as a base for exploring nearby islands and bays.
Portugal
A summer spent in Europe is like no other, and we’ve noticed the popularity of Portugal rise over the past year or so. Portugal’s landscape is so diverse, offering stunning beaches and framed by orange-hued cliffs, hiking trails, and cities home to ancient landmarks and magnificent architecture. It’s fairly off the radar for many travelers, so they’re often delighted by the food scene, amazing scenery, and value for money.
Given its location, it’s also great to combine with nearby Spain. Get in touch to build an Unforgettable European adventure. Our specialists can curate the perfect trip for you in Spain – combining both iconic and off-the-beaten-track destinations to suit you.
Greece
Although films like Mamma Mia contributed to the popularity of Greece, this country is on many people’s travel bucket lists, and rightly so. Located in southeastern Europe, Greece is riddled with ancient history and 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Acropolis of Athens, Mystras, Mount Athos, Meteora, and the Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus to name a few. If history and architecture aren’t of interest, Greece also boasts one of the most delicious and popular cuisines in the world. Enjoy Mediterranean spreads including fresh Greek salads, grilled fish and seafood, and flavorsome cheeses. One of the most popular things to do in Greece is sail across and explore the Greek islands. While some islands already have a huge popularity behind them – like Santorini and Mykonos – there are a host of Greek islands that are quieter and regarded as up-and-coming destinations. These include islands like Crete, Milos, and Paros.
Croatia
Home to hundreds of beautiful islands, national parks, cascading waterfalls, historic towns, and much more, Croatia is one of the most picturesque countries in Europe – if not the world. Along the Dalmatian Coast, the shimmering blue ocean separates the mainland and the islands. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea allow you to explore Croatia by cruise. Our company roots started in Croatia, and for the past five years, we have been the largest tour operator, offering Croatia cruises on our privately operated vessels. A week cruising the Croatian islands allows you to visit six or seven different islands – including Hvar, Brac, Vis, and Korcula among others – as the ship docks overnight in the port.
Each morning, you’ll sail to a new island, enjoying breakfast and lunch on board the ship, and taking the opportunity to jump into the ocean and enjoy swim stops in hotter weather. For those who do not want to cruise the Croatian islands, we can also curate personalized trips across Croatia, booking accommodation and tours in popular cities like Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Istria among others. We can also organize day trips to national parks like Plitvice and Krka which are simply picture-perfect.
Tanzania
Located in East Africa, Tanzania has always been one of the best safari destinations on the continent, so why have we included it in our up-and-coming destination shortlist? While the spotlight has been on national parks like the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater – because of their exceptional game viewing opportunities and unique landscapes respectively – some of Tanzania’s southern parks are becoming increasingly popular, and rightly so. The Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania offer a more exclusive game viewing experience, without the crowds that the northern parks attract. The game viewing in the south is still fantastic though as the great Rufiji River is the lifeline for the resident and migratory animals that come into the park.
Sri Lanka
Located on the southern coast of India, Sri Lanka is a beautiful island home to vibrant forests, colorful cities, and picture-perfect beaches. Because of its relatively compact size, the island of Sri Lanka makes it very possible to travel around and explore lots of different destinations within. These often include its capital, Colombo, Galle, Ella, and Kandy among others. There are also iconic experiences in Sri Lanka that you must do, such as climbing Sigiriya Rock, taking the train from Colombo to Kandy, and visiting the Cultural Triangle’s major sites and temples.
But going into the new year, our specialists have found some up-and-coming destinations in Sri Lanka, and for active travelers, the Pekoe Trail is certainly one to add to your bucket list. This trail is a heritage tea trail that crosses over seven valleys and hundreds of tea plantations. On route this 300km trail, you’ll pass stunning waterfalls, lakes, unique architecture, and historic sites. People have been walking this trail for centuries, but it is now possible, to do shortened versions of the trail, hiking from one boutique hotel to the next.
Botswana
Situated in southern Africa, Botswana offers a diverse and rich safari experience. The Okavango Delta – in the northern part of the country – is an expansive inland river delta and is famed for its sprawling plains that, at certain times of the year, turn into flooded wetlands. This means that you can do water activities like boat safaris and go out on mokoros (local canoe boats). On dry land, the game drives are guided by professionals and you’ll have the chance to see an abundance of big cats like lions and leopards. Of course, you’ll see a wealth of elephants, antelope, and potential sightings of more elusive animals like rhinos and wild dogs.
Switzerland
Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine alpine beauty, offers a wide array of captivating tours that cater to every traveler’s interest. Among the best tours in Switzerland, the Glacier Express and Bernina Express stand out as iconic railway journeys that showcase the country’s majestic scenery.
The slow-travel trend isn’t going anywhere and in Switzerland the train is king. Almost any journey from one town or city to another can easily be done and usually involves stunning views of mountains, lush green pastures, and pretty wooden farmhouses. That stereotypical view of Switzerland really does exist – everywhere!
Other trending trips for 2024
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Best of Paris, Bordeaux & Loire Valley
Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux
10 NightsFrom $5,652 PPEnjoy the best of French gastronomy, wine and history on this exploration of some of the most enchanting destinations in France. This 10-night adventure is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the iconic sights of Paris, French history and fairytale-like chateaux along with some of the finest wine and culinary delights on the planet. You’ll start in Europe’s most romantic capital, marvelling at everything from the Eiffel Tower and world-famous masterpieces in the Louvre like the Mona Lisa to the majestic Palace of Versailles. Indulge in a seductive journey through the Loire Valley with its enchanting castles and picturesque landscapes that include endless vineyards and lavender fields before concluding with the famed wine capital of Bordeaux with tastings at some of the most internationally renowned vineyards. A blissful, stress-free way to travel, all of your accommodation is taken care of, and we’ve ensured a comfortable, upscale stay with hotels that have been hand-picked by our experts. Daily breakfasts, private transfers, 24/7 support and many private guided tours are also included throughout. -
Best of Bali
Ubud, Pemuteran, West Bali National Park, Munduk, Amed, Sidemen, Candi Dasa
13 NightsFrom $4,413 PPLeave no stone unturned on this complete tour of the Island of Gods. Across 14 unforgettable days, you’ll visit every corner of this magical island, taking in Ubud, Pemuteran, the West Bali National Park, Munduk, Amed, Sidemen, and Candi Dasa. Experiences include – but are absolutely not limited to – hikes to secluded waterfalls and across volcanic peaks, mountain-biking through terraced rice fields, temple tours, Balinese cooking classes, nature walks, underwater adventures, and lots of fantastic interaction with the wonderful Balinese people. With private guides and drivers taking care of all the arrangements, and staying in some of the island’s best and most characterful accommodation, there will never be a better way to sample the very best that Bali has to offer. -
Panoramic Rail Routes of Switzerland
Geneva, Montreux, Interlaken, St. Moritz, Tirano, Zurich
7 NightsFrom $4,597 PPIn Switzerland the train is king, almost any journey from one town or city to another can easily be done and usually involves stunning views of mountains, lush green pastures and pretty wooden farmhouses. That stereotypical view of Switzerland really does exist - everywhere! This week-long tour takes in three of the most iconic routes in the country, the Goldenpass, Glacier Express and Bernina Express, with comfortable 4-star accommodation along the way. For those wanting to see as much of Switzerland in a short period of time as possible, this itinerary is a must. -
Italy the Grand Tour
Rome, Sorrento, Amalfi Coast, Naples, Florence, Lake Como, Venice
15 NightsFrom $4,972 PPExperience it all on this 16-days, 15-nights luxurious tour of Italy that includes many private guided experiences. Begin in Rome, taking in all the sights, explore the Vatican Museums, marvel at Michelangelo’s fresco in the Sistine Chapel ceiling and journey to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, enjoying a sunset cruise. On your way to beautiful Tuscany, you’ll tour the incredibly well-preserved ruins of Pompeii and then see the masterpieces in Florence and sample Chianti on a Tuscan tour. Discover the dazzling beauty of Lake Como and then cap it all off in the “Floating City,” Venice, complete with a gondola ride. -
When to go: Jun - Mar
Best SellerTanzania Migration Safari
Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar Island
9 NightsFrom $8,763 PPThe wildebeest migration is one of the most desired safari experiences to witness, and rightly so! With approximately 1.5 – 2 million wildebeest and zebra migrating across the plains of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, it is the largest migration on Earth. Although the herd patterns differ each year, our specialists will curate an itinerary that gives you the best opportunity to see the wildebeest migration herds, no matter what time of year you travel.
Between the months of June and October, you will stay in a luxury tented camp in the northern plains of the Serengeti, before flying across to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Between November and March, you will stay in the southern plains of the Serengeti. Our Africa specialists will offer detailed explanations and curate the perfect safari for you. So if the Great Migration is on your bucket list, get in touch today. -
Classic Turkey
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir
8 NightsFrom $3,988 PPDiscover classic Turkey on this exciting journey that begins in Istanbul, with private guided tours of its rich history and culture. You’ll take in many landmarks while getting a fascinating insight into the stories behind them before jetting off to the remarkable Cappadocia region, renowned for its bizarre and beautiful landscapes with soaring rock formations. Discover churches carved right into the rock and embark on an epic adventure in a hot-air balloon over it all. You’ll visit one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites, the ancient city of Ephesus, founded in the 10th-century BC, and conclude with a cruise on the Bosporus Strait. -
London & Paris Getaway
London, Paris
6 NightsFrom $2,724 PPExplore two of Europe’s top destinations, London and Paris, during this exciting one-week trip.
Start in London with a full-day Black Cab Taxi tour of all the top sights, discovering landmarks that you’ve probably seen many times on the big and small screen, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, Kensington Palace, and much more. With your own private guide who has unique local “cabbie” experience, it’s sure to be unforgettable. You’ll tour Windsor Castle, the world’s largest inhabited castle, before transferring to Paris for the second half of this magical adventure.
Start with a half-day sightseeing tour featuring all the landmarks from the Eiffel Tower to Sacre-Coeur is included and we’ve also provided a free day so that you can explore the French capital at your leisure. Throughout your seamless journey, you’ll enjoy private transfers, 24/7 support from our dedicated staff, and 4- or 5-star hand-picked accommodation with daily breakfasts included.
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