Looking for something more exciting than an all-inclusive, without sacrificing the conveniences? Not all adventures involve trekking into the wilderness and sleeping rough. Amazing experiences can be had without compromising comfort – and can be made more special by the luxuries. Discover four different ways to travel that promise rest, relaxation, and wonder.
Crossing countries by train
The world’s most amazing rail journeys range from the scenic to the historic, and from a few hours to several days. Among the best are those that transport you directly into the past with heritage carriages and cabins and concierge service, such as the Orient Express, the first train of its kind to provide long-distance luxury travel. Others prioritise the scenery, such as Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and Switzerland’s Glacier Express, ‘the slowest express train in the world’ that crosses 291 bridges through the Alps.
You can sit back and relax and take in views that many will never access. You also gain valuable flexibility with your sightseeing and itinerary as a whole. Many European rail networks connect city centres directly, which cuts down on transfer times and allows you to arrive closer to major attractions.
Discovering destinations by cruise
Cruises remain a popular choice with those looking for a stress-free holiday. Logistics are meticulously planned in advance, so all you need to do is disembark whenever you reach a port, be back in time for departure, and enjoy the generous on-board facilities during your time at sea. This can include some serious entertainment on the larger cruises, including concerts and ice dancing shows!
This style of travel works particularly well in regions where island hopping or coastal exploration can otherwise require complicated transport arrangements, such as the Norwegian fjords, or if you want to visit a lot of locations in one go. Having travel insurance cover that includes cruises in place before you travel can help protect you financially if there are unexpected problems with your trip, giving you peace of mind while you sail.
Experiencing remote islands
Remote islands deliver an unrivalled sense of escape, making them the ultimate option if you’re looking for serenity away from it all. Where else can you feel at the very edge of the world, or experience total silence other than the sway of the waves? And with island resorts being some of the most luxurious of them all, there’s no compromising on comforts. Just think of the Maldives.
Other types of island experiences are just as rewarding as the tropical beaches. São Miguel in the Azores is famed for its biodiversity, Sao Tome is known for its chocolate and plantations, while Scotland’s Isle of Harris boasts spectacular natural beauty. What makes these places memorable is the slower rhythm of daily life and necessary restrictions on visitor numbers. Bear in mind that you might be completely cut off from civilisation for a few days and consider whether this is really a dream for you.
Staying in special properties
The place where you stay can be as memorable as the destination itself and add magic to an otherwise standard tour. How many people can say they’ve slept in the bedchamber of a historic castle or within converted monasteries that don’t skimp on luxuries like the paradores along the Camino de Santiago in Spain?
Equally, countryside retreats and spa boutiques elevate casual domestic trips, turning last-minute long weekends into valuable shared adventures. Choose a property that reflects the character of the region rather than selecting accommodation solely on location. When your stay tells its own story, it’s an adventure in itself, and your entire trip feels more connected
