THE travel industry is on the crest of a wave right now with a whole heap of far-flung destinations emerging as hot trends for 2019.
Dublin Airport has introduced a number of long-haul services with direct flights to Calgary in Canada and a number of Asian cities.
Ryanair has also introduced 15 new routes, nine of them from Dublin, including Dubrovnik and Split on the stunning coastline of Croatia.
The hotspots are too many to explore here but they include Sri Lanka, Croatia, China, Dominican Republic, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand.
According to industry experts, most travellers are now seeking a bit more than sun, sea and sand and active, solo and retreat holidays are all on the increase.
Here are some of our favourites for 2019 …
South Africa
Enjoy a South African road trip, for 12 nights this May/June, from €1,695pp including car rental.
Spice up your summer and uncover one of the most stunning corners of the world with this offer from Travalue.ie.
This trip is the perfect way to uncover all the beauty, cuisine and landscape that South Africa has to offer.
Your journey will begin in Cape Town, home to jaw-dropping scenery, a stunning coastline and sandy beaches.
Travel down to the Cape of Good Hope or venture by cable car to the top of Table Mountain.
Or stay local around the harbour area and take the boat to Robin Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.
After two nights in the idyllic Winelands, you will move along to the Garden Route and spend four nights marvelling at the outstanding beauty littered across the area.
The trip concludes with a spell-binding safari with two nights on a full board basis in Eastern Cape Safari Addo Elephant National Park, with game drives included.
Price includes all accommodation and nine days’ car rental.
For more information on this offer from Travalue.ie, see: http://itaa.ie/2018/12/12/south-africa-6/
Torres del Paine
America’s Deep South
Have you dreamt of visiting the vibrant Deep South? American Holidays have released fantastic offers that can turn your dream into reality, from €1,218pp.
The southern United States are unlike anywhere else you will ever go. Hot weather, warm smiles, rich history, and arguably, some of the best food in the US – not to mention being a mecca for music lovers.
From the Nashville home of Country music, to the Blues, Soul and Rock ‘n’ Roll of Memphis and the Jazz of New Orleans – you will hear it all.
You can combine up to three destinations on multi-centre trips or choose an escorted holiday – the choice is yours.
For the following three offers, call American Holidays to book on 01 673 3804, drop into their office at 18- 19 Duke Street (just off Grafton Street), or visit www.americanholidays.com.
Nashville & Memphis
Spend four nights at the three-star Clarion Downtown Nashville, followed by three nights at the three-star Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, from only €1,289pp.
Price includes return flights from Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, one day compact car hire, taxes and charges.
Based on two adults sharing; travel this March, American Holidays ref no: 51458553.
New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville
Spend three nights at the three-star Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter, two nights at the Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, followed by three nights at the three-star Millennium Maxwell House Hotel Nashville, from only €1,218pp.
Travel this February, American Holidays ref no: 51451764.
Tastes and Sounds of the South
Take this escorted tour from €3,159pp; the nine-night tour will take you to Nashville, Memphis, Natchez and New Orleans, with dates available from March to November.
The price includes return flights, accommodation, nine full breakfasts, five dinners, luxury transport, a professional tour guide and transfers. American Holidays ref no: 51351243.
Amazing Alaska Cruise
Explore the truly stunning Alaskan scenery on this fantastic cruise holiday, including Seattle from €3,499, taking in visits to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan, as well as a stop in the Canadian city of Victoria on the return journey.
Relax on board the stunning Norwegian Pearl as you sail past majestic mountains, glistening glaciers and, if you’re lucky, some of the incredible wildlife that calls Alaska home.
With a two-night stay before the cruise in Seattle, including a city tour, you’ll have time to visit some of the city’s many museums, shops and restaurants, see its bustling waterfront, the historic Pioneer Square and, of course, the iconic Space Needle.
On board, the Norwegian Pearl features include hot tubs, a pool, casino, a spa and much more.
Optional excursions at ports of call are also available to book in advance or on board the ship.
Prices start from €3,499 including return flights from Dublin, transfers, pre and post-cruise B&B hotel accommodation in Seattle, seven-night all-inclusive cruise with Ultimate Beverage Package and guided Seattle city tour, departing September 6.
For details, see www.traveldepartment.ie.
All prices and details correct at time of going to press; check with individual travel operators per deal.
