As we enter a new decade, there's never been a better time to plan a special trip. To inspire, we've put together a list of must-see destinations – our Hot List for 2020. From an adventure at the ICEHOTEL to a luxury rail journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking exotic wildlife, craving adventure in the great outdoors, or simply in need of a relaxing escape, the below itineraries make for truly unforgettable holidays. And, if you need help planning your trip, our experts are always on hand.
Nothing says luxury better than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Its iconic blue and gold carriages evoke a golden age of travel, one that celebrates all things glamorous. What's more, with a recent rise in the popularity of no-fly holidays, it offers the chance to avoid the airport altogether – Return to Venice is an ideal choice. And, in 2020, three new suites join the train, named after European cities – Vienna, Prague and Budapest. If you're celebrating an occasion, a stay in one of these exquisitely furnished rooms, complete with ensuite bathroom, makes the journey even more special. Some of the most popular itineraries include journeys to Venice, Istanbul, Budapest, and Lake Como.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Paris Suite on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
If you're seeking something totally immersive, perhaps tying together a city break with rural countryside and a beach escape, a journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express paired with a stay at a Thai island resort is hard to beat. The train itself is just as luxurious as its sister – the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – but with a decidedly exotic flair. You'll take in everything from the city streets of Singapore and Bangkok to the tranquil rice paddies of Malaysia, alongside fine dining and free-flowing cocktails in the bar car. Round it off with a beach retreat in Koh Yao Yai, and you have the perfect all-inclusive vacation. Alternatively, head from the train to Langkawi island, where you'll relax on the beach against a backdrop of canopied rainforest – it's just as idyllic.
Eastern & Oriental Express
The Datai, Langkawi
In 2020, Silversea will launch Silver Origin – the first destination-specific Silversea ship in the Galápagos Islands. Designed with the region's sensitive environment in mind, the ship has a lower carbon footprint and state-of-the-art-technology to help protect the seabed. After all, it's the incredible ecosystem here that visitors come to see. Get up close with brightly-coloured iguanas and giant tortoises, snorkel with schools of reef fish and hike to volcanic plateaus, before returning to the ship to enjoy multi-course gourmet dinners and sunset drinks.
Silver Origin
The Galápagos Islands
There's a growing trend for transformative travel – journeys that leave you feeling like a new and improved version of yourself. India is the ideal place for this kind of experiential holiday, and as the wild tiger population has risen by 33% in the last four years, seeing them thriving in their natural habit is nothing short of awe-inspiring. A tailor-made trip to see tigers, temples and the Taj Mahal will see you searching for big cats in three of India’s stunning national parks – Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Pench, paired with lodge stays, campfire sundowners and gourmet dining.
Tigers, Temples and the Taj Mahal
Tiger in India's National Parks
Not everyone has plenty of holiday time to spare throughout the year, and if you're seeking a short burst of adventure, look no further than Sweden. A four-day winter ICEHOTEL break offers the chance to add on everything from snowmobiling across the frozen tundra to hunting the Northern Lights in the wild Polar Night. Come summer, the snow melts away to reveal rivers and forests for rafting and foraging, and the year-round ICEHOTEL 365 means you can spend a night on ice, even in the warmer months.
ICEHOTEL
Art Suite, ICEHOTEL 30
If you're inspired to travel somewhere on our Hot List in 2020, or anywhere else in the world, our dedicated travel specialists are here to help. Our tailor-made itineraries include the likes of UK airport lounge access and private, in-destination transfers as standard – so you'll be journeying in style from start to finish. Call us on 020 590 0601 or enquire now to start planning.