While the region is known for its weekend getaways and staycations, nothing truly beats a full-fledged holiday. And now, with the bulk of the public holidays made available to us, the best time to start planning the itinerary is now. So whether you’re considering a family vacation, a couples retreat, a solo trip, or making the group chat come to life, these are the spots to bookmark this year.
Baku, Azerbaijan
With a 3-hour flight away, Azerbaijan sits on the border between Asia and Europe. Its capital city Baku, is rich with a fluid mix of past and present and an East meets West culture. You’ll find a modern skyline and historical ruins coexisting in harmony. And then there are the bazaars. Filled with antique shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to trinkets and charms. Labubu who?
Doha, Qatar
If you’re not a Middle Eastern based in Qatar, there’s plenty of hype to visit Doha in the upcoming months, between Art Basel Qatar and Doha Fashion Show. On its own, Doha is a fascinating place to indulge in culture and history. And if we’re talking nature, then look no further than Khor Al Adaid—because honestly, where else can you watch the sea flow into the desert?
Istanbul, Turkey
Another spot where the East meets the West, Istanbul is a colourful city to explore. Not only does it come with a rich past and loads of adorable stray cats, but for the fashion-forward, Istanbul is a hidden gem for the shopaholic. With centuries-old bazaars, boutiques, and Turkish designer shops, there’s plenty of patterns, prints, and cuts to explore, so consider packing light.
Milan, Italy
Italy is a consistently popular spot for travel so you need to be strategic with your visit to avoid the typical tourist crowds. Usually, the months April to May or September to October give the best weather as well as the least crowds. And if you’re considering visiting simply for the fashion, then September is an even better shout as you just might catch a show at Milan Fashion Week.
Malé, Maldives
For those dreaming of a beachy getaway but have exhausted all the nearby staycation options, why not give the Maldives a go? While they’re known as a popular honeymoon destination, the island nation is equally popular with families, with snorkelling and dolphin cruises onboarding everyone regardless of age. And if lazing around is on the agenda, then a visit to one of their many private islands will help you reset and recharge while truly disconnecting from the outside world.
Podgorica, Montenegro
For history buffs and architectural fans alike, Montenegro provides a fascinating mix of fused cultures because of its complex history. You can walk through preserved medieval towns and buildings shaped by the Illyrians, Romans, Ottomans, and Yugoslavia, as well as explore hidden courtyards and traditional cafes with Montenegro’s picturesque natural landscapes in the background.
Seychelles
White sand beaches, crystal clear waters, lush forests, and giant tortoises—this archipelago flies under the radar when it comes to beachy holiday destinations, but we’re here to tell you to give it a shot! Not only is it a visa-free country, making travelling a lot less stressful, but its conservation efforts mean witnessing the most unique nature finds.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Another archipelago with pristine beaches and fine white sand, Zanzibar offers a beachy escape with a dash of cultural exploration. You can explore landmarks such as the Maruhubi Palace, Palace of Wonders, and Kizimkazi Dimbani Mosque or visit spice farms, natural pools, and wildlife at the Jozani Forest.
