New year, new you?

 
There’s no better time than the new year to cleanse your soul and ‘find’ yourself with a spot of solo travelling.What are the benefits of travelling alone?Well, the most obvious benefit of travelling solo is, simply put: the world is your oyster. No friends holding you back, no compromises to make, nobody else to think about. You can literally go where you want, when you want. If you want to go hiking, go for it! Want to try the local delicacy but your friend wants a McDonald’s? No issues here!
 
Here are our 12 favourite destinations for travelling solo

bali

indonesia

Generally known as one of the most spiritual places in the world, solo travellers often like to come here to indulge in a more relaxing side of life. Pack a bag and head to Bali for an abundance of spas, yoga sessions and organic dining.

Amsterdam

netherlands

One of the easiest cities to navigate in Europe, Amsterdam offers an abundance of experiences and a terrific nightlife, too. The city is famous for its bikes; look into renting one and glide around the city at your leisure. To escape the hustle and bustle head to Vondelpark, a peaceful green space in the heart of town.

thailand

Thailand is known as one of the friendliest countries in the world in terms of hospitality; you definitely won’t feel alone here. Millions of backpackers end up on one of its many paradise islands every year, so even if you want the space of travelling alone, you’re likely to meet like-minded people. Renowned for being cheap, Thailand offers plenty of party destinations (Bangkok) as well as areas for relaxation (Koh Phangan).

costa rica

For those looking for adventure, Costa Rica may be for you. Packed with activities and sights to see, you can climb active volcanoes, go windsurfing and cross rocky jungle bridges at your peril! On the other hand, Costa Rica is also a beautifully peaceful country, with locals who welcome travellers with open arms.

south island

new zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful country at the far end of the world – but South Island in particular houses an abundance of solo travellers. Plenty of activities in this area of New Zealand are perfect for trips alone; think skiing, kayaking, abseiling, bungee jumping… the list is endless. The scenery is pretty spectacular, too.

sri lanka

Sri Lanka’s coasts are laden with unspoilt, sandy beaches and beautifully clear waters; you simply won’t want to leave!

scotland

united kingdom

No trip to the UK is complete without a visit to the northern tip of the country, Scotland. Often used in various film production sets, the winding roads and cliff edges of Scottish folklore are a dream to witness. Head north of the capital, Glasgow, and you’ll find Inverness and Loch Ness, famous for its legendary monster. With such beautiful scenery, you’d be mad not to take a trip to Scotland.

budapest

hungary

One of the most beautiful European cities, Budapest is packed with history and beautiful sights. Its reliable tram system means you can hop on and off the city with ease – don’t forget to pick up a Budapest Card for free travel and entry to attractions. For local eats, head to its famous market hall.

new york

usa

Where do we begin? There’s so much to do here, it’s probably best to travel alone for argument’s sake! You could visit Times Square, head to Central Park or simply roam the streets of Manhattan without a care in the world.

barcelona

spain

Barcelona’s transport system is so reliable; it’s a doddle for any solo traveller looking to get around. For sports fans, head to a football match at the Nou Camp, or for some relaxation, head to one of its many coastal areas.

nepal

For the hiking types, Nepal is perfect for solo travelling. If experienced, take in the Annapurna circuit – a three-week trek across some of Nepal’s most beautiful landscapes, getting you up close with mountain people. Though you can tackle this hike alone, it would be advised to join an organised group as you’ll need to stop off in the region’s teahouses on the way for food and rest.

ireland

Similar to Scotland, the picturesque Ireland is a beauty to be seen. Though travelling around the coast may be difficult without a car, public transport is cheap and a coach from Dublin to southern areas like Waterford costs just a few euros.

So if you feel like embarking on a journey to find yourself this year, why not explore the world and make the most of your alone time by enjoying everything that Costa Rica, Thailand, Sri Lanka or Nepal have to offer.
 
However, you don’t want your perfect journey of enlightenment to be ruined through being ill abroad, suffering sickness abroad, dealing with food poisoning on holiday, injury or theft. So if anything does happen to you, make sure to file holiday illness claims or holiday accident claims, as soon as you’re back!



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Nothing says Christmas quite like wrapping up and taking a trip to a Christmas market.
With twinkling lights, the smell of mulled wine and huts where you can buy locally produced trinkets, it really is a special place to be.

For the full authentic experience, visit the largest ones in Old Town Square and King Wenceslas Square (yes, the namesake from the carol!). Popular purchases include locally made glass, wooden toys, embroidery and scented candles. Indulge in some culinary delights like roasted ham, trdelnik (sugar-coated pastries) and sip on the classic mulled wine.

Set in the beautiful Tivoli Gardens, this market has over 50 stalls where you can buy yourself some stylish Scandi Christmas decorations. There’s no surprise that this market is all about ‘hygge’ – the Danish word for cosiness. There’s food and drink aplenty – try glogg (mulled wine) and aebleskiver (pancakes) to warm yourself up.

This is a classic market – and the oldest in the world. It all started in the 16th century. Nuremberg’s city square becomes home to the market every year, with around 200 stall holders turning up to sell their wares. Germans take this very seriously and there is a team of wardens who check that all the products are locally produced!

Germans really love their Christmas markets, and Cologne is another firm favourite. In fact, there are seven markets within the city of Cologne! The biggest one is next to Cologne Cathedral. Watch glassblowers, blacksmiths and wreath-makers create baumschmuck (tree decorations). There’s plenty of atmosphere in this city in the run-up to Christmas – it won’t disappoint.

This market has been open for 20 years. With 80 stalls there’s certainly a lot to see, taste and do. The best thing about this market is the live music which is provided by local bands and choirs. If you fancy getting hands-on, there’s an Austrian biscuit workshop to keep you busy.

Make sure to pack your faux fur hat, gloves and padded jacket as you visit the snowy city of Tallinn. The market is set in the medieval city centre which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Expect the usual huts selling hot food and decorations, but there are even more special things to see in Tallinn. There’s a snow sculpture exhibition (we didn’t even know that was a thing!). Plus a mini Christmas zoo – our favourites are the reindeer, goats and geese.

This enormous homage to Christmas attracts over one million visitors every year. There’s lots to buy and do – try a Christmas wreath workshop or blowing glass to create your very own Christmas decoration. It’s Christmas at its cheesiest so there’s plenty of festive treats – think bratwurst and gluhwein!

This one is inspired by the original market in Nuremberg. In fact, lots of German stall holders travel all the way to Chicago for it every year! In keeping with the German theme, there are German goods aplenty – wooden toys, steins and cuckoo clocks are the most popular.

While it doesn’t get quite as chilly in Hong Kong as other cities across Europe, they certainly make up for lack of festive weather with their decorations! Winterfest Market is a twinkling, glittering market – complete with fake snow – where you can indulge in delicious food and drinks while you do a spot of shopping. Across Hong Kong there’s a lot to take in – favourites include The ICC Light And Music Show and the Pulse 3D Light Show.

Typically you’d expect cold, crisp weather for your Christmas market trip – but not in Singapore. Welcome to Christmas in the tropics! The city holds a Best Dressed Building competition every year on Orchard Road, so the whole street is decorated with lights. It looks truly magical. While you walk down Orchard Road, you can also buy some decorations and handicrafts.

So if you feel like enjoying a wonderful Christmas this year, why not venture out and enjoy the fabulously festive Christmas Markets that Singapore, Chicago, Germany or Estonia have to offer – what a beautiful & enchanting way to get in the Christmas spirit!
 
However, you don’t want your perfect Christmas holiday experience to be ruined through being ill abroad, suffering sickness abroad, dealing with food poisoning on holiday, injury or theft. So if anything does happen to you, make sure to file holiday illness claims or holiday accident claims, as soon as you’re back!

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Skiing and snowboarding are among the most exciting activities to do on your holidays, but it can be difficult to settle on a resort to book.
 
There are plenty of amazing destinations to choose from across the world, so we’ve narrowed the list down to our top 11, to make things a little easier for you!

Definitely the most stylish resort in Austria! The quaint riverside villages of Lech and Zürs contain many five-star hotels, with luxury spas and lodges. With easy access to the Alps, this resort is perfect for those looking to combine skiing with a luxury break.

The resort of Meribel is ideal for those looking for a good all-rounder. With its family friendly atmosphere, good variety of hotels and restaurants, and easy access to multiple nearby slopes, this destination covers all bases.

Deep in Sweden’s wildest parts, Riksgransen contains amazing scenery and nature. With it being so far north there is always more than enough snow, and you can ski in sunlight throughout the night. Just watch out for the reindeer who will be sharing this rugged land with you!

The best choice for nightlife! As the host of the ski world championships, St. Anton am Arlberg is a very popular choice for the more advanced skiers. In the heart of the Arlberg ski region, there are enough slopes to keep everyone entertained.

The stunning mountain of Matterhorn simply had to be on our top 11 list. Slightly more expensive than some nearby resorts, the amazing backdrop of this destination more than makes up for it. There’s a variety of slopes for those who can take their eyes off that beautiful view!

Revelstoke is probably one of the best ski resorts for serious skiers. The village itself is pretty limited, but the nearby town of Revelstoke has a greater range of hotels and cuisine. The slopes alone make up for this, though, and are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in skiing and snowboarding. Revelstoke covers everyone’s wishes; with mountain terrain, all levels of slopes, open powder faces and tree skiing.

Canada is known for its fabulous skiing, and many would say that Whistler is the best resort in the country. Close to Vancouver, this destination seems to really have it all. With amazing slopes covering all levels, snow is in abundance here. The hotels and restaurants are great here as well and are suitable for all budgets and tastes.

This resort is probably the best for freestylers; with stunning off-piste and tree runs and really good parks. But beginners are also covered here, as their learner slopes and beginner areas are world renowned.

As the first South American resort given the honour of hosting the world skiing championships, Portilla has become famous across the world. Better suited to more advanced skiers, the steep slopes and impressive terrain have helped to make this resort very popular.

Boasting a reputation as one of the best resorts for powder, Alyeska is the biggest ski resort in Alaska. This open mountain has good snowfall all year round, providing ski mountaineering and heli-skiing for the more advanced, and more gentle slopes for beginners.

Kashmir offers plenty for those looking for a skiing trip with a difference.
Fancy sharing the powder slopes with monkeys?

We hope this has inspired you to book your next trip away! Just remember that while skiing and snowboarding are fun and exciting holidays, they can also be risky activities. Skiing & snowboarding accidents are very common on the slopes, so ensure you are wearing the correct protective gear and take out the necessary insurance before flying out.
 
So there you have it, 11 of the most breathtaking locations in the world to enjoy the perfect skiing & snowboarding adventure. Whether it’s the glorious landscape slopes of Canada, Switzerland or Austria each and everyone one of them has to be experienced, so why not pick up your skii’s or board  and hit the snow now!

However, you don’t want your superb holiday experience to be ruined through being ill abroad, suffering sickness abroad, dealing with food poisoning on holiday, injury or theft. So if anything does happen to you, make sure to file holiday illness claims or holiday accident claims, as soon as you’re back!

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