Here’s a list of 8 destinations that must be ticked off your bucket list in 2018. This list compiled by luxury tour-operators Scott Dunn, who specialize in tailor-made experiences, takes you everywhere from Iceland to Oman,but it veers off the beaten track.
With more than 30 years of experience in tailoring bespoke holidays, leading luxury tour operator Scott Dunn unveils their predictions for the top 10 hottest destinations for 2018. The increasing demand for authentic experiences is reflected in the list, which shuns well-trodden destinations to uncover hidden gems – from trekking in Nepal to visiting a spirit sanctuary in Bhutan.
Exclusive experiences in Cambodia
Hot destination Cambodia offers more reasons to visit in 2018 with the exciting new openings of Shinta Mani Wild (new luxury tented camp, complete with zip line), Six Senses Koh Russey, Alila Villas Koh Russey, The Beige in Siem Reap, Rosewood Phnom Penh and Rosewood Siem Reap.
Scott Dunn has done lots of work on exclusive experiences in Cambodia and helping their guests get away from the crowds as tourism increases. They can organise treasure hunts around Angkor Wat, expert guiding, helicopters, private dinners in the jungle and more.
Scenic sanctuary of Bhutan
Due to open in early 2018, the Six Senses Bhutan circuit is one of Asia’s most anticipated openings. Located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang– guests will be able to embark on a ‘Six Senses Journey’ between each lodge, exploring Bhutan in style. Bhutan remains one of Asia’s most unspoiled and majestic locations, a hidden kingdom that retains a unique charm. Each of the Six Senses lodge locations will boast incredible views, in particular the lodge in Punakha which overlooks the Mo Chu River, and Gangtey, which has views of the Phobjika Valley, and is inspired by the colourful Kingdom’s reputation as the ‘happiest place on earth.’
Exciting luxury offerings in Iceland
Iceland is a destination which continues to see a huge surge in popularity. The country’s most popular tourist attraction, The Blue Lagoon, is set to open ‘The Retreat at Blue Lagoon.’ Iceland’s phenomenal landscapes tempt visitors out into the wild to experience an array of outdoor activities, from a puffin safari to heli-skiing from summit to ocean on the Troll Peninsula at luxury Nordic retreat Deplar Farm. Trollaskagi Camp, a new pop-up glamping camp, will open from March to May 2018 overlooking Eyjaörður from Amazing Escapes. Boasting six luxury guests domes with double beds and wood stoves, guests will be able to watch the Northern Lights from their bed and relax after a day outdoors in a Scandanvian hot-tub or the fully-stocked library dome.
Nature’s bounty in Nepal
Whilst Nepal isn’t at the forefront of new openings for the forthcoming year, Scott Dunn is feeling really excited about this destination coming back, as the luxury tour operator has seen a big increase in demand with enquiries up over 50%. This has been helped by MeghauliSerai opening in Chitwan last year. Nepal also twins brilliantly with Bhutan, and Scott Dunn has seen a lot of demand for guests wanting to combine both destinations over a longer period of time.
Tropical bliss served in Bawah Island
The unique Bawah Island is located in the Anambas Islands of Indonesia. Accessible from Singapore by ferry and seaplane, Bawah is a group of six tropical islands that feature 35 beautifully designed suites and bungalows. Surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs, as well as dense jungle canopy and mangroves, this eco-hideaway is an explorers dream. Think Nihiwatu meets Song Saa or Soneva Kiri. Offering a new private island experience, this will be one of the hottest holiday destinations for 2018.
Undiscovered luxuries of Jordan
Scott Dunn also sees Jordan as an emerging destination for 2018. Jordan is well-known for its highlights such as the world-famous Nabatean city of Petra, the Roman ruins of Jerash in the north, the epic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea – the lowest point on earth and the best place for a float. Offering a polar opposite experience to that in Asia, guests can also combine a trip to Jordan with Oman to really explore the wonders of Arabia.
Exhilarating activities in New Zealand
While there isn’t anything new to report for New Zealand, it continues to be a popular destination for travelers from Singapore. Not only does it offer a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, but it also gives guests the chance to revive themselves in the great outdoors with exciting and exhilarating activities. For 2018, Scott Dunn will be promoting New Zealand as somewhere to go for a digital detox, without having to forfeit on luxury, thanks to the country’s fabulous collection of luxury lodges.