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5 of the top countries in the World
Somehow, it’s December and we find ourselves buried in an ever-growing to-do list of Christmas shopping, festive decorating, mince-pie tasting (we don’t mind that bit) and, at the moment, football-score-checking.
If you’re anything like us though, you’ll be taking the time to look forward to 2023 and all of the travelling adventures it might bring.
To lend a hand with narrowing down your holiday options, here are 5 of the World’s best countries (according to the recent Condé Nast Reader Awards!)
Japan
Japan is a country of contradictions. From robot restaurants to peaceful shrines, high-rise neon-lit cites to snow-capped mountainscapes, from the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world to ancient trails tucked away in hidden valleys, there’s something new and surprising to discover around every turn.
Japan holiday highlights we love
Spend a night at a monastery in the beautifully remote temple town of Koyasan. You’ll learn about ancient traditions from Buddhist months and wake up to the sound of morning prayers.
Unleash your inner ninja at a workshop designed to teach you the legend, art and history of these traditional warriors. (A great one for kids!)
Explore Kyoto’s picturesque backstreets by bike, and keep your eyes peeled for the local Geisha or maiko in the famous Gion neighbourhood.
Morocco
Crumbling kasbahs, ancient mountain villages, bustling cities, maze-like souks bursting with sounds, smells and colours, breezy coastal towns and the golden sands of the Sahara desert. All of that, just a short hop on a flight from the UK. Morocco really does have something for everyone.
Must-have Morocco Moments
Taste the flavours of Morocco on a food-tasting tour through the medina of Marrakesh with your local guide.
Get a real, authentic taste of Moroccan life by spending a whole day with a local family in Fez
Take a camel trip through the Sahara desert to your luxury tented camp, ready to spend a night under the stars.
Explore the ancient Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, boasting more credits than most oscar winners, you’ll feel like Lawrence of Arabia here…
Sri Lanka
From tea plantations and white-sand beaches, to elephant-filled jungle safaris and whale-watching on the Indian Ocean – a Sri Lanka holiday will be packed full of magic moments from start to finish. And that’s before we even mention the food and the smiling locals. If you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure in stunning UNESCO National parks, a bucket-list ticking safari, authentic insights into a rich culture or some lazy time on some seriously beautiful beaches – you can do it all on a Sri Lanka holiday.
Sri Lanka adventures we love
Visit a local village and help to prepare lunch before eating with a Sri Lankan family in a traditional home.
Experience a different kind of safari: Flying through Colombo on the back of a tuk-tuk sampling the street food delicacies on offer.
Hop on a bike and take a ride through rural villages, this cycling tour from Galle will get you off the beaten track.
Experience one of the most beautiful train rides on earth through Sri Lanka’s Tea Country.
Israel
Israel has so much history and opportunity for adventure packed into its relatively small space. There are many sites to see, all of which boast their own distinct vibe whilst remaining true to their Israeli roots and culture.
Israel adventures you can’t miss
Listen to the prayers as they float around the skies of Jerusalem and enjoy a Shabbat dinner with locals.
Soak up the atmosphere in Tel Aviv on a City Tour.
Explore the Holy Sites of Galilee.
Take a tour along Israel’s Mediterranean Coastline.
South Africa
It’s no secret that we’re big fans of South Africa here at HA. Being the first ever country we designed holidays to, we’re chuffed to see it make the Condé Nast list. The Rainbow Nation is a special one in so many ways. Its rich and often troubled history tells a story of strength and resilience, its never-ending safari plains are the places where safari dreams are made, its dramatic roads are some of the best to drive on earth, its cities are home to some world-class restaurants and last – but certainly not least – its wine is delicious. What’s more, the pound is strong against the rand right now, so it’s great value! 2023 could be the year for a holiday in one of the most varied countries on earth.
A handful of South Africa highlights
Fly around the stunning roads of the Cape Peninsula in style – by sidecar!
Spend an authentic but challenging day with the Uthando group. These philanthropic township tours really get it right – and you’ll leave with a better understanding of these communities, the issues they face and knowing exactly how your contributions are giving hope and opportunity to the people you meet.
Hike amidst the spectacular scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains.
