Planning your next luxury holiday? Experts answer your top travel questions and share trip ideas
Guided by travellers’ interests, Scott Dunn uses insider knowledge to make each adventure unique and unforgettable
WHAT’S your definition of a dream holiday?
Is it in uncovering ancient ruins, observing wildlife in their natural habitat, or simply soaking in the views from a pristine beach?
Whatever they may be, such journeys can deeply personalise and transform your perspective of the world. Yet, planning for unique, off-the-beaten-path adventures can also be daunting. And this is where travel experts can provide the right guidance and support for a seamless and exhilarating experience.
Scott Dunn, a global luxury travel company which specialises in tailor-made high-end holidays, uses the power of insider knowledge via its dedicated team of destination-specific specialists to elevate the travel experience. These are avid travellers with a passion for their respective regions, who regularly immerse themselves in local cultures and landscapes, so they have the freshest insights and most exciting recommendations.
Since each traveller’s interest is the priority, Scott Dunn’s approach is to try to make every adventure unique and unforgettable, depending on what thrills and engages the client.
Before a major travel decision is made, there are the inevitable questions. Scott Dunn has put some of the questions guests have recently asked to its experts. Here’s what they have to say:
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I want to plan a special bucket list trip for my partner and me. What would you recommend?
Lucien Lau, Asia travel specialist
For those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, here are three of my top recommendations:
Hiking Machu Picchu: This iconic Incan citadel, perched high in the Andes, offers not just stunning views but a deep connection to Peru’s rich history. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the trek through lush cloud forests and over ancient stone pathways brings you to the top; and also an understanding of the spirit and endurance of an ancient civilisation.
River cruise on the Nile: A Nile River cruise offers a window into the soul of ancient Egypt, with stops at monumental sites like Karnak and the Valley of the Kings. Glide past palm-studded landscapes and traditional feluccas sailing the breeze, all while enjoying the comforts of modern luxury in your floating hotel.
Discover the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan: Venture into the mystical realm of Bhutan, a land of monasteries, majestic mountains and a vibrant culture that still cherishes its centuries-old traditions. From the breathtaking Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) perched on a cliff to the tranquil streets of Thimphu, Bhutan offers a peaceful yet exhilarating escape from the ordinary.
I’m thinking of embarking on a polar expedition, which is better – the Arctic or Antarctica?
Odele Seah, Americas travel specialist
Deciding between an Arctic and Antarctic expedition is a choice between two distinct and transformative experiences, each set at one of the Earth’s extremes. The Arctic offers a vibrant tableau of biodiversity and human history. This region features expansive tundra, boreal forests, and a host of indigenous communities with rich cultures. Wildlife enthusiasts will revel in the presence of iconic species like polar bears and reindeer, and the Arctic’s accessible nature allows for diverse activities, including dog sledding and cultural tours under the awe-inspiring aurora borealis.
In contrast, Antarctica represents the ultimate frontier of remote wilderness. It’s a land of stark, surreal beauty where icebergs and vast ice sheets dominate the landscape. Here, wild animals such as penguins, seals and occasionally, whales, offer unique wildlife watching opportunities. The continent’s profound isolation makes it ideal for those seeking to escape the familiar and dive into a world of quiet and introspection, surrounded by dramatic vistas.
Where’s the best place to see the Northern Lights and when?
Geraleine Yap, Europe travel specialist
Tromso, Norway, is one of the best destinations to witness this mesmerising spectacle. Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Tromso boasts optimal aurora viewing conditions and is known for its high auroral activity. The combination of clear skies and extended darkness during the polar night makes it ideal for Northern Lights chasers.
Finnish Lapland and Iceland are also fantastic destinations for a Northern Lights adventure. Both offer spectacular winter wonderlands, teeming with experiences that let you really get stuck into this natural playground.
I’m considering my next epic wildlife holiday. What would you recommend?
Leonard Mok, Asia Travel Specialist
When it comes to unforgettable wildlife journeys, three adventures stand out to me: gorilla trekking in Rwanda, tiger spotting in India and swimming with manta rays in the Maldives.
With gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you hike through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park before coming face to face with mountain gorillas. This heart-pounding experience is both humbling and magical, offering deep insights into their behaviour and conservation.
Secondly, head to India for a tiger safari. Imagine exploring the dense jungles of Ranthambore or Bandhavgarh National Parks, eyes peeled for the elusive Bengal tiger. The thrill of spotting a tiger in the wild is unmatched. These parks are rich with diverse wildlife, from monkeys swinging in the trees to colourful birds taking flight.
Finally, explore the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, swimming alongside graceful manta rays. From May to November, particularly around the Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll, you’ll be able to witness these magnificent creatures gliding effortlessly through the water up close, a truly magical underwater spectacle. The Maldives also offers pristine coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life.
This article is sponsored by luxury travel tour operator Scott Dunn
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