We’re officially halfway through the year, which probably means you’re feeling a bit deflated, a bit burnt out, and generally in need of a break. Don’t worry – we’re all feeling that! But the good news is, it’s also coming up to holiday season, which means you can start planning how you want to use that annual leave, and where you might want to go this year. For many of us the big annual holiday is a lifeline – something we look forward to all year long, and something that brings us many happy memories when it’s over and helps us power through the coming months.
So this year, why not make it something special? Take a break from your emails for a minute, grab a cup of tea, and join us on a tour of the most popular holiday destinations of 2019:
Kvarner Bay, Croatia
If you like sun, sea and rich culture, you can’t go wrong with Kvarner Bay. Nestled in northern Croatia, Kvarner Bay is one of Europe’s newest must-visit hotspots, which means you might be the first person you know to go on this exotic holiday! It’s crystal clear oceans are homes to pods of bottlenose dolphins, colourful fish and white sandy beaches, making it the perfect getaway for the summer. If you like to explore, Kvarner has a rich heritage – why not explore the picturesque Rab Town and its winding streets, climb the historic bell towers for some stunning views, or go island hopping and visit the quiet fishing villages and bustling markets of authentic Croatia? Plus if you’re a TV buff, you can use it as a base to visit some of the stunning filming locations for George R.R. Martin’s epic Game of Thrones.
The Peloponnese, Greece
If you like the idea of a Greek getaway, but don’t fancy the crowds of clamouring tourists, then we have a perfect option for you. The Peloponnese has been a bit of a hidden gem for years, and now that main transport links have finally been established, it’s pegged to become one of the best vacation spots of 2019. While you’re not enjoying the iconic sea, sun and sand of Greece, you could take a laid back train ride to explore the region in all its beauty. The Peloponnese is also home to a number of historic health and fitness events over the course of the year (since it was the home of Hippocrates after all), with the most well known being the Iron Man race (which includes a 1.9km swim in the Ionian sea, cycling through olive groves and a half marathon on the beach). If you’re a wine lover this is the perfect destination for you, since the region has more wineries and grape varieties than any other region. Why not take part in the local tradition of tasting wine at Eumelai, a farmstead set in 50 acres of organic olive groves.
The Swiss Alps
You might look at this suggestion and think ‘why should I visit specifically this year?’ After all, the Swiss Alps are a very popular holiday destination for skiers and lovers of nature alike. But 2019 is a special year for Northern Italy and the Swiss Alps, because it marks 500 years since the passing of Leonardo da Vinci. It’s also the year that the Venice Biennale (a world-renowned art exhibition) returns, which means there will be a wide range of events to attend and exhibits for you to visit that wouldn’t be there any other year. While you’re there, we recommend checking out the opening of the Glacier Express, a new ‘excellence class’ train tour that runs from Zermatt to St Moritz, giving you a luxurious way to enjoy the alpine beauty.
Belarus
This destination is perfect for anyone who finds beach holidays a bit dull, and instead wants some culture, adventure and exploration from their holiday. Belarus has always attracted people seeking the obscure, boasting a low-key amazing art scene, cafes that will have you questioning your favourite coffees and cakes, and locals who party like it’s still 1999. The European Games will be hosted in Belarus from 14-30 June, so there’s no lack of things to do and see. We highly suggest you take a trip to Minsk – the hub of Belarus – with its restored Old Town built around their beautiful ratusha (town hall), dotted with bierstubes and fashionable cocktail bars to wile away the evening in.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our suggestions, or that we’ve given you some new ideas to try out for your next getaway. If you’ve selected your holiday but are in need of some swimwear, don’t forget we have a great selection of plus size swimwear. Have a great summer and remember, the most important aspect of your holiday is having fun!