Where to travel to in 2021
2020 was a year full of twists and turns, with travel plans thrown into disarray and the entire travel industry grinding to a halt. As 2021 approaches we are cautiously optimistic that we will be able to make up for those holidays lost. We also realise, now more than ever, that time is precious so why not explore a new travel destination? For anyone in need of inspiration, we have rounded up a selection of ideas from our collection of properties. Read on to find out how to make 2021 a year to remember, for all the right reasons.
Castaway vibes in the British Virgin Islands
After more than two years of construction following the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, Necker Island is now fully restored to its former glory and in fact, looking more beautiful than ever. Ideal for a ‘getting away from it all with your bubble’ break, those visiting in 2021 will be among the first to experience the island’s new Bali Hi Complex. Set across three tiers and built on a cliff to ensure spectacular views, the Bali-style house features a beautiful ground floor lounge area, a luxurious bedroom and a plunge pool. Paradise has never looked so picture perfect! Plan your Necker Island adventure here.
Necker Island
A Mallorcan hideaway for work and play
Working remotely became the norm in 2020, but for those looking to diversify beyond the home office or dining room table, look no further than Son Bunyola, located in the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site of the Tramuntana mountain range on the Spanish island of Mallorca. With three spacious villas set across a stunning 700-acre estate, Son Bunyola makes for a luxurious upgrade from many a home office, with the option to work from airy outdoor dining spaces to charming bedroom terraces. Each villa has its own private pool and plenty of space to relax once office hours are over. Discover our Long Stay package here.
Son Bunyola
Safari with a heart
Safari often tops travel bucket lists and with Ulusaba in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Mahali Mzuri situated in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the world-renowned Maasai Mara in Kenya, we are lucky to have in our collection two world-class properties offering some of the most spectacular game viewing on the African continent. Today, however, safari isn’t just about the thrill of the game drive or the adrenaline rush when spotting the Big Five, it is also about education and long-term conversation and this is at the heart of everything our Rangers and Guides do at both Ulusaba and Mahali Mzuri. Expect to learn in depth about endangered species; help in the work being done to protect them for future generations as well as witness what both camps are doing to educate, develop and protect the livelihoods of the local communities. A wild ride to remember.
Mahali Mzuri
Local culture guaranteed to lift that post lockdown spirit
Situated in Morocco’s spectacular High Atlas mountain range, Kasbah Tamadot is bound to lift anyone’s post lockdown spirit. Known for its work with the surrounding villages, the property offers guests a glimpse into local life with its Authentically Berber Experience. Following a two-to-three-hour trek through the Atlas Mountains, learn how to create traditional mouth-watering dishes during a cooking lesson and discover the secrets to baking bread the Berber way, while a visit to the Eve Branson Foundation will offer a real insight into how the Foundation along with the team at Kasbah Tamadot and Virgin Unite supported over 500 families during lockdown. Delve deeper into local life.
Kasbah Tamadot - bread making
The ultimate in privacy
2020 saw an increase in demand for villas and private residences and this looks set to continue in 2021 as we increasingly seek out privacy and seclusion. Set amidst the beautiful scenery of Franschhoek, South Africa, is the Manor House at Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard. The perfect spot to escape the crowds, this private residence offers the best of both worlds, with its four deluxe suites, a bunk room for younger guests and two private swimming pools while allowing guests to fully indulge in all the luxuries of a five-star hotel stay. From private dinners to spa treatments, to hiking and wine tastings, there is plenty to keep your travel bubble entertained.
For those seeking an action-packed holiday in 2021, The Lodge in the Swiss resort of Verbier with its nine bedrooms and suites is the ideal Alpine retreat offering seclusion, natural social distancing on the slopes or hiking trails, and fresh Swiss mountain air, be in the Winter or the Summer.
The Manor House at Mont Rochelle
Wed in style
Restrictions on guest numbers saw wedding plans changed or cancelled last minute in 2020. Large weddings were reduced to much smaller numbers with many looking to embrace this change in the new year, adapting their plans to organise a more intimate celebration. Private and secluded, our collection of retreats lends itself well for those looking to combine their intimate wedding with their honeymoon. From saying 'I do' under the African sky in the bush to a small wedding in the vineyards at Mont Rochelle or a romantic beach ceremony on a secluded beach at Necker Island, couples are sure to have a wedding that dreams are made of.
Necker Island wedding. Credit Duke Images