As human beings we love having something to look forward to. And so it is in our nature that while we just got back from the December holidays, we may also be proactively looking ahead and planning for our next getaway.
So, which are the top trending destinations people are considering for 2023 and what do these hotspots offer for the holidaymaker? Club Med, leaders in all-inclusive holidays, shares their top picks.
Indonesia
Indonesia, and Bali in particular, has emerged as an ideal go-to for the first time South African traveller heading abroad. Known as the Islands of the Gods, Bali has two seasons – wet season and dry season – but temperatures remain moderate making it the ideal holiday spot all year around. Bali is loved for its warm hospitality, the spirituality it exudes and ancient culture on show. Bali is the place to be for those who are seeking a wellness retreat, where they can connect with higher powers, enjoy yoga sessions on amazing beaches, explore ancient temples, palaces, volcanoes, exotic jungles and rice paddies.
Fast Fact: Bali is located in the Coral Triangle which gets water from west of Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Timor which is why the area is considered the Amazon of seas.
Mauritius
This will come as no surprise! This Indian Ocean destination has always been a firm favourite amongst South Africans and this trend is not likely to change anytime soon. A mere four-hour flight away, Mauritius has so much to offer every type of tourists other than its tropical climate. Those in need of relaxation will find some of the most serene idyllic spots with the ocean sounds as the soundtrack to their relaxation. The wide variety of land and water sports from golf, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing etc. will see active couples and families making incredible memories learning a new passion and skill. Adventure and history lovers will be enthralled by the incredible hiking trails on offer that will showcase some of the natural beauty of Mauritius and the rich history behind its landmark settings.
Must try experience: Discover one of the best-kept secrets in Mauritius, Club Med La Plantation d’Albion,an exclusive resort between wild coves and lush vegetation with an authentic Mauritian vibe!*
Thailand
A true holiday mecca, Thailand is an eclectic mix of incredible landscapes, beaches and some of the most epic party spots in the world. Affectionately nicknamed The Land of a Thousand Smiles, Thailand is in the Southeast Asian Indochinese peninsula and boasts having more tourists (per capita) than anywhere else in the world due to its budget-friendly rates! It is highly rated for its beautiful beaches, easy travel logistics from South Africa and friendly people. Tourists will spend days exploring opulent and architecturally intricate temples, martial arts displays, tropical jungles and exotic elephants. When it comes to cuisine, Thailand does not disappoint with its delicious fusion of Thai flavours in its dishes.
Must try experiences: One cannot leave Thailand without sampling some of their famous dishes such as Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup), Kaeng Lueang (Yellow Curry) and Tom Kha Gai (Chicken in Coconut Soup).
Seychelles
The list of top destinations to go to on holiday for South Africans would be incomplete without mentioning the stunning destination of Seychelles. Not only is it famous for world famous beaches and being host to the only two granite islands in the world, but Seychelles is also an incredible archipelago of islands of which some of them are easily accessible to tourists who want to explore further than their resort or hotel. A popular honeymoon destination because of its beauty, the Seychelles have incredible excursions, watersports and options for spotting wildlife in any of the two UNESCO-listed nature reserves. Families will love the only all-inclusive resort on the island, the exclusive eco-chic Club Med Seychelles with its Robinson Crusoe themed offering and activities for children!
Fun fact: A character in one of the James Bond movies, Milton Krest, was named after a drink the books author had in the Seychelles when he visited the island in search of inspiration.
Maldives
Maldives is one of the few holiday destinations that remained open to tourism in varying stages during the pandemic. As a result, it received an influx of new tourists, who would have otherwise gone elsewhere, and many have fallen in love with the island. A tropical nation in the Indian Ocean comprising of 26 ring-shaped atolls, it is known for its beaches, blue lagoons and extensive reefs. The bustling capital, Malé, has a busy fish market, restaurants and shops to explore. The clear waters of the Maldives are a magnet for anyone with an interest in marine life and it is one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Expect a rich and varied underwater offering that is astonishing; dazzling coral walls, magnificent caves and schools of brightly coloured tropical fish await you when you get down to the reef.
Must try experience: Looking for a romantic stay in the Maldives, surprise your loved one with a stay at the gorgeous overwater Finolhu Villas!
It’s easy to be undecided as to which destination to pick as each of these holiday spots deserve to be on any bucket list and have so much to offer for any and every type of traveller. But whether the journey takes you to the Indian Ocean or Southeast Asia, you will not be disappointed. Enjoy the travels!