What does 2016 hold in store for global travelers? Here are our predictions for the new year based on the sort of trips trending in our forward bookings, the rapid-fire evolution of online travel services, and the educated expectations of our most experienced travel consultants.
1. Follow the Sun
Our over-55 travellers are choosing sun-drenched destinations for vacations that focus on rest, relaxation and flexible activities. They’re returning to places they’ve been before with a focus on taking time out to soak up the good weather and explore at leisure.
We've combined the best safari destinations with idyllic tropical islands into tour packages that are pure sunshine.
2. Bucket List or Bust
We anticipate a spike in bookings for once-in-a-lifetime safaris from families and small groups of friends as bucket-list travel evolves from do-before-I-die personal ambitions to a shared vision for witnessing a natural wonder or having a truly unique experience.
Want to be amazed? We recommend Africa’s Top 10 most inspirational places.
3. Personalise It
This trend grows out of the 'Know Me' movement of 2015, which saw tailor-made travel expand from the ultra-luxe consumer space into a wide range of customisable activities and accommodation options that deliver a vacation that is adapted to the individual traveller’s preferences and interests.
If private, tailored travel sounds like your glass of bubbly: here is our selection of top private tours.
4. Solocations
Research published in The New York Times suggests the number of solo travellers is growing every year. Not all of these travellers are single – many are travelling solo because their partner is not free to go along, or they are pursuing an individual interest or personal dream.
Here’s a quick link to our top 5 solo safari experiences.
5. Savvy Savers
International travellers take advantage of beneficial exchange rates and ever-more competitive long-haul flights. Research giant Hopper predicts that the average price for an air ticket during January 2016 will be at a 3-year low. These savvy savings are excellent indicators for a rise in luxury long distance travel, especially to exotic destinations like Africa.
You can explore our Top 10 best African safaris for inspiration.
2016: Where will you go?
If this is your year for making memories, choose a safari in Africa where you can see natural wonders like Victoria Falls, witness unforgettable spectacles like the Wildebeest Migration, and visit unique destinations like the Okavango Delta.
Let’s make 2016 your best-ever adventure.