Suddenly we’re half-way through the year, the confidence coming back, and hearing all the travel stories that our friends bring back from their international adventures.
The stories of understaffing, delays and difficulties are dissipating, as the world gets back on its feet.
So — where could you still go this year?
We’ve had touring company Abercrombie & Kent digging through their bookings and tours for the rest of the year for us, to come up with a list of availability.
This is their team’s guide to greatest places travellers can still see with them from June to December, 2023.
But our insider warns: “With limited space on some of their most iconic journeys, you’ll want to get in soon.”
Sri Lanka
It’s been through the mill, not just with the pandemic, but with a disastrous run economically. But the tourism folk in Sri Lanka are keen for us to know they are open for business. The A&K team’s spokesperson adds: “It is a deeply spiritual place where Buddhist values and rich cultural heritage are interwoven with colonial influences. From golden beaches and arid plains to lush tea plantations and mist-covered mountains, on this extraordinary journey discover Sri Lanka’s diverse terrain, fascinating ruins, flavoursome cuisine, and serene and gentle people.”
+ Availability on Sri Lanka: Secrets of the Spice Island. Luxury Small Group Journey, 14 days from $9995 per person, twin share (averages 10 guests).
Iceland
Fjords, glaciers, emerald cliffs, geysers — this is an amazing volcanic landscape. (And I’m looking forward to being there soon.) The spokesperson adds that A&K’s trip includes staying in intimate properties, from Blue Lagoon retreat to a boutique art deco hotel in Reykjavik. There’s also an emphasis on seasonal Icelandic cuisine.
+ Availability on Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice. Tailor-Made Journey, seven days from $11,454 per person, twin share.
Egypt & the Nile
Pharaohs, emperors and conquerors from Cairo to Luxor come along the Nile. This is on board A&K’s own Sanctuary Sun Boat IV. It includes visits to archaeological tombs and temples with an Egyptologist.
+ Availability on Egypt & the Nile. Luxury Small Group Journey, 10 days from $12,880 per person, twin share.
India
Colour, rituals and wildlife are included in this tour through India’s north, from Delhi to the Taj Mahal and on to Ranthambore National Park and Varanasi.
+ Availability on The Golden Triangle & Beyond. Tailor-Made Journey, 12 days from $8130 per persons, twin share.
Spain
There are several versions of Spain. One is mainstream tourism, party Spain. Then there’s a deeply rooted, cultural version, full of palaces, artworks and beautiful food. This tour serves it up, and the spokesperson emphasises: “Travel is at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to soak up the lively atmosphere in the energetic cities.”
+ Availability on Journey Around Spain. Tailor-Made Journey, 14 days from $23,480 per person, twin share.
Kenya
For wildlife, the Masai Mara and Ol Pejeta wildlife conservancy are always good bets. Guests stay in comfortable tented camps and are driven by experienced safari guides.
+ Availability on Visions of Kenya. A private Tailor-Made Journey, 10 days from $13,960 per person, twin share.
Visit A&K’s website, abercrombiekent.com.au, or a travel agent.