Bucket List Travel

5 destinations to scratch off your list in 2023

You know Gray Dawes is all about travel. But did you know it’s not always about business?

As Christmas fades to a distant memory, our thoughts turn to summer holidays and who better to inspire us than very our leisure travel division, Ventur Luxury, formerly Gray Dawes Holidays.

We caught up with our well-travelled colleagues at Ventur to discover their top tips for dream holiday destinations… and they didn’t disappoint!

Ventur Harrogate office

With long-haul travel firmly and safely back on the agenda, are you looking to make up for missed holiday opportunities? Now is the perfect time to gather your bucket list itinerary and get back to travel with a bang.

Are you an island lover? How about seeking a luxurious escape to Seychelles. Or if you’re a lover of outdoor pursuits, Canada should be at the top of your list.

And we cant forget the ultimate California road trip! From the iconic San Francisco to the City of Angels and beyond – this itinerary is hit after hit.

Check out our top bucket list destinations below, handpicked by our team of luxury travel experts.

 

Costa Rican Adventure

A tropical paradise. When it comes to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Costa Rica is the ultimate choice for both adventure and nature lovers.

From scuba diving with whale shark and surfing on the island’s legendary beaches, to taking in awe-inspiring volcanoes and swimming in heavenly waterfalls situated in the heart of a national park, the question is where to start! Don’t forget to take a hike through the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest and discover why Costa Rica is so famed for its amazing wildlife.

Best for: Travellers seeking a rustic, adventure-packed experience.

Costa Rica<br />
Seychelles<br />
Serenity in Seychelles

For 5* luxury, breath-taking natural landscapes and unbelievable marine life, Seychelles is the perfect choice.

With 115 islands to choose from, island-hopping is the perfect way to get the most out of the islands. Soak up the main island’s culture on Mahé, exploring its beautiful national parks and not forgetting their rum distillery! Take in the picture-perfect beaches on Praslin and explore the Vallée de Mai where the famous Coco de Mer palm grows. Then end in complete exclusivity on one of the many private islands – a touch of pure opulence alongside world-class snorkelling.

Best for: Island lovers seeking a luxurious escape, with the option to explore.

Unforgettable Namibian Safari

For adventurous travellers who’ve experienced the wonders of safari, Namibia offers the chance to turn your experience up a notch.

With a dramatic, arid, dessert landscape reminiscent of the famous Atacama Dessert in Chile, it’s perfect for self-drive. Head across the dessert and down the Skeleton Coast to discover an array of amazing wildlife including zebra, rhinos, cheetahs and flamingos, before bedding down for a night of stargazing, or recouping in one of the many modern resorts.

Best for: Experienced travellers looking to captain their own adventure.

Namibia<br />
California<br />
California Dreaming

When it comes to bucket list trips, this is a classic.

From iconic San Francisco to the City of Angels, this itinerary is hit after hit. Don’t miss a trip down to San Diego to discover the world-famous zoo, iconic Gaslamp Quarter and relaxed atmosphere, or the dramatic scenery on Big Sur as you drive south on the coastal road.

Wine-lovers can rejoice with wine-tasting aplenty in Napa Valley, while nature-lovers should go whale-watching in Monterey, as well as exploring the famous Yosemite National Park. Not ready to go home? Las Vegas is only a short drive away…

Best for: Tailoring your trip, no matter your interests! Also great for a first-time self-drive.

Breath-Taking Canada

Canada is growing in popularity thanks to its amazing beauty and magnificent wildlife including bears and whales.

Fly into Calgary before working your way round Lake Louise to take in the turquoise waters, soaring mountain backdrop and famous Victoria Glacier. Take one of the many hiking trails before heading to Whistler for a spot of ziplining! The stunning Rocky Mountaineer Railway is extraordinary way to travel onwards to Vancouver and complete your trip of a lifetime.

Best for: Lovers of outdoor pursuits.

Canada<br />
Ventur Luxury Travel

Ready to explore the world and get away from business travel for a while?

Our experts at Ventur Luxury Travel are there to take care of everything.

For more information about any of these fabulous destinations, to check out our latest holidays offers or just to seek inspiration for your next getaway, visit the Ventur Luxury website or get in touch with Paul, Katherine and the team.

Happy holidays!

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