Do nothing…
and Breathe...
- 10th March 2020
You may know us as specialists in multi-centre itineraries; but that’s not all Exceptional Travel are about. We also have a wealth of knowledge on single centre destinations, those ‘fly & flop’ hotspots intended to instigate rest, sooth the soul and recharge the batteries.
With that in mind we’ve collated our top ten locations geared toward some much needed R&R. Whether a spa break in Thailand, a private villa with the family in Sri Lanka, or a short hop over the Mediterranean to Morocco, our little black book of picture perfect properties has something for everyone. If you’re enticed by the archetypal over-water villas of the Maldives, lured by the romantic shorelines of the Seychelles, or feel drawn by Brazil’s best kept secret sands, allow us to take you there, blending your flights, transfers and accommodation into one, tidy, protected package.
With a scenic coast line and only a three and a half hour flight away, Morocco is ideal for a quick fix of sunshine and a dramatic change of scene without the long-haul journey. Boasting traditional riads in bustling medinas and picturesque coastal towns, as well as luxury resorts set in lush countryside, there are myriad properties to chose from. Influenced by the east and west, Morocco‘s cuisine is a veritable feast and if shopping is your thing, allow yourself to be seduced by the mysterious maze of souks that lie in store.
Enjoy a luxurious castaway experience in the Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise waters lapping powder white shores, here you can take your pick of idyllic paradise islands offering ultimate relaxation and comfort along with a sense of utter seclusion. Head below the surface with your snorkel or scuba gear and you’ll be rewarded with brilliantly coloured corals and tropical fish, graceful manta rays, curious turtles and if you are lucky, the magnificent whale shark.
Bahia, on the northeast coast of Brazil, is home to some of the best beaches in South America. Here you will find miles upon miles of unspoilt, splendid golden beaches lying next to clear waters and palm fringed freshwater lagoons. For the ultimate getaway, we recommend taking a splendid private home whilst also making your way to the capital Salvador to enjoy delicious local fare, unique music and soak up some of the vibrant Brazilian atmosphere.
With wide sandy coastlines and a plethora of luxury resorts, Mauritius is the perfect destination for the ultimate family beach holiday. World class service is coupled with outstanding cuisine and an safe environment, ideal for little explorers to sample new surroundings and experiences. Head inland to discover emerald tropical rainforest, theatrical waterfalls and verdant mountains while on the coast you will be spoilt by first-class golf courses and an excess of both gentle and adrenaline fuelled watersports.
If sipping on tequila cocktails with your feet in the sand, before taking a dip in the calm Caribbean sea sounds like your idea of a holiday, Mexico could offer the perfect escape for you. Tulum and the Riviera Maya offer magnificent beaches and impressive resorts, whilst for those who prefer to get off the beaten track, the less developed stretch of coast at Holbox is now more accessible than ever before. When the sun goes down the Mexicans know how to throw a party so pack your dancing shoes!
The south coast of the teardrop island of Sri Lanka is abundant with luxury villas catering for couples right up to larger extended family groups. With infinity pools and private chefs, you may not want to leave your villa, but for those who would like to explore, there is also a great variety of activities to choose from. From surf lessons to Buddhist temples, and elephant safaris to cycling tours through rural villages, there’s something to please everyone in the family.
The Seychelles comprise 155 islands, graced with white sand beaches, trimmed with palm trees encircling a remarkable biodiversity. Dotted with remote hideaways perfect for honeymooners or anyone seeking a true sanctuary, the Seychelles enjoy some of the most exclusive private islands in the world, epitomising the expression ‘tropical island paradise’. With any carefully considered development sitting very closely with conservation, the desire to preserve the islands’ ecology is prevalent.
Ideal for a hit of winter warmth and sunshine, combined with spectacular scenery, Oman is only a seven hour flight from London. Priding itself on impeccable hospitality, families, couples and solo travellers are all catered for exceptionally well. To compliment the beaches, breathtaking mountain and desert landscapes can offer the perfect escape from your days on the sands while opportunities for trekking, mountain biking, scuba diving and sailing are available to those seeking a little more adventure.
With a number of exclusive islands and resorts only accessible by sea, coupled with some of the best spas in the world, Thailand offers the ultimate retreat from our busy lives. From contemporary Asian resorts to barefoot luxury hideaways, whether a family holiday or a romantic escape, there are options to cater for everyone. After enjoying the essential traditional Thai massage, you may like to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine in an authentic cookery class but you won’t be blamed if you simply prefer to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery with a glass in hand.
Home to some of the of the best beaches in the world, Zanzibar specialises in untouched, rustic chic . With the Arabic influences in evidence on the main island of Unguja and it’s port of Stone Town, the more remote Pemba and Mafia Islands offer an even more exclusive and secluded escape. Excellent diving, twinned with tropical island life and historic Swahili culture make it a fascinating destination to both relax and explore.
For more information on on our fly and flop destinations or to book a holiday, get in touch.