Over the last four days, most of the team have been in London at the Destinations travel show, selling books and chatting with our favourite people - you.
If you couldn't make it to the show, you can still let us know what you think.
We have a survey running at the moment, making it easy to provide all kinds of feedback. It takes less than eight minutes to complete (time yourself!) and there's the chance to win a seven night holiday as well.
You can find it here. Be as bold or as kind as you like.
Until next week,
Cheers, Abi
New Travel Writer of the Year 2024 The Longlist
Longlist announced on Friday!
We’ll be revealing the titles of the 13 pieces longlisted for the 2024 Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year competition on Friday.
For now, head judge Hilary Bradt offers some introductory comments...
'Each year I say to myself ‘This must be the best bunch of entries ever’ but this year, our 50th anniversary, the theme Taking the Risk has inspired some terrific writing. Reducing them to this longlist of 13 was not easy, but what stands out is the variety of topics.
Stories ranged from extreme adventures in northern latitudes to a short, but disastrous walk to work; from a celebration of the carnival in Cologne to a reflection on the plight of San Francisco’s homeless; and from hitchhiking in the Kalahari desert to risking tantrums on a kids’ sightseeing trip round Europe. Sometimes it was others taking the risk – like a brave woman in Saudi Arabia or the pilgrims’ painful progress in Tibet.
What stands out in all of them is vivid, uncomplicated writing. Sometimes, in the entries that didn’t make it, the narrative thread is lost among the adjectives and similes.'
With its enticing mix of powdery white beaches, marine adventures, wildlife, and culture, Zanzibar has earned its place on our list of the best destinations to visit in 2024.
On the palm-lined coast, colourful kite surfers weave between billowing white sails of passing dhows.
Under the green canopy of the island’s interior, Zanzibar’s only national park, Jozani Forest, is where red Colobus monkeys, the shy tree hyrax, chameleons, and butterflies small and large are found.
Spice farms teach which plants locals use as medicine and which spices provide authentic flavours for traditional Swahili cooking.
It's a no brainer really.
For best rates, local know-how, and personalised travel plans, book through Visitzanzibar.org, a not-for-profit hotel association set up to ensure sustainable, eco environmental practices, support of local communities, wildlife conservation, and the natural assets of Zanzibar and Tanzania.
Scandinavia & Iceland
Scandinavia is worth visiting for many reasons but, in 2024, the biggest reason will be the chance to see the Northern Lights.
The Northern Lights are at their most spectacular during what astronomers describe as a ‘solar maximum.' The latest research suggests that the next maximum in the solar cycle will occur during 2024 and that it will be both stronger and longer lasting than recent such events.
In short? This could be the best chance in more than a decade to see the impressive sky display. The aurora borealis are amongst the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena – a spell-binding sight for discerning travellers with a sense of adventure. Kirker offers you a front row seat with tailor-made itineraries to Iceland and Scandinavia, including expert local guides.
Lithuania
Tucked up in the Baltics, Lithuania, is a small nation with a big character. Vilnius, its capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its medieval Old Town adorned with Baroque architecture.
But for many, it’s the nature that they remember. Lithuania’s national parks, like Aukštaitija National Park with its tranquil lakes and dense forests, offer hiking, canoeing, and glimpses into traditional village life.
Amidst lively feasts and carefree dancing, without shoes, you will realise what makes Lithuania special. Lithuania is an experience to share and a story to tell.
Lithuania offers a myriad of experiences in one easy-to-traverse country. From city streets to dinner plates, it’s easy to dive into the country’s multi-layered cultural heritage. And as pristine nature is always just steps away, meditative escapes to age-old woods and sandy dunes can be included in every itinerary. Find out more at Lithuania Travel.
Complete our survey and be in with a chance of winning a 7-night stay in Corfu or Kefalonia.
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