Trips That Hit the Sweet Spot Between Luxury and Adventure
For today’s modern English travellers, the ideal holiday combines comfort and indulgence with curiosity and excitement. Luxury and adventure are no longer mutually exclusive, and the most memorable getaways now combine thrilling exploration with premium comfort, giving travellers the chance to step outside their routine without compromising quality.
Whether it’s waking up in a safari tent or cruising down a French river, here are five travel experiences that offer the best of both worlds.
African Safari: Untamed Beauty, First-Class Comfort
Nothing compares to the heart-pounding thrill of seeing a lion in the wild or hearing elephants trumpet as the sun rises over the savannah. Luxury safaris in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa deliver thrilling wildlife experiences wrapped in five-star comfort, so you don’t have to rough it outdoors.
You can witness elephants, lions, giraffes, and many other animals in their natural habitat and then retreat to elegant lodges or tented camps with five-star amenities, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and expert-guided tours.
Rhone River Cruises: Wine, Culture, and Exploration
If you’re looking for a more elegant adventure a little closer to home, France may be the place to go. Cruising along the Rhone River offers a slow and immersive way to experience Southern France, gliding past sun-drenched vineyards, Roman ruins, and medieval towns, with stops along the way for wine tasting and sightseeing. If you’re after something a little different that blends elegance with experience, Rhone river cruises with guided excursions provide a seamless blend of culture, comfort, and cuisine.
Costa Rica: Eco-Adventure Meets Eco-Chic
Costa Rica is the perfect destination for adventure-seeking travellers who also like to relax. This Central American gem is famous for its natural beauty and provides endless opportunities for adventure. Hike around active volcanoes, zip-line through jungle canopies, and watch sloths in the treetops – and then unwind in an eco-lodge surrounded by rainforest.
Costa Rica offers a touch of luxury with rainforest lodges, wellness retreats, and boutique eco-resorts that combine sustainability with spa facilities, fine dining, and stunning natural views.
New Zealand: Road Tripping in Style
New Zealand is a paradise for those who love to explore, offering unforgettable views across snow-capped mountains, dramatic glaciers and fjords, and volcanic landscapes. A self-driving trip lets you discover both the North and South Islands at your own pace, taking in the sights, stopping for outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking by day, and enjoying local cuisine and spa-like comforts by night.
Japan: Where High-Tech Meets High-Tranquillity
There are very few destinations that blend old and new like Japan does – a true masterclass in contrast. In just one day, you could explore ancient shrines, shop in futuristic Tokyo malls, and relax in a steaming onsen. You can hike through bamboo forests, ski in the Japanese Alps, or wander Kyoto’s temples, all before coming back to a traditional ryokan or sleek city hotel. Japan offers a mix of rich tradition and cutting-edge luxury and belongs on everyone’s must-visit list.